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- Tasks: Join us as a Dog Handler, supporting police operations with expert canine assistance.
- Company: West Midlands Police serves 2.9 million people, focusing on community safety and engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional development and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public safety while working with amazing dogs and diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Must be a licensed general purpose dog handler with fitness requirements and strong communication skills.
- Other info: We value diversity and offer a Disability Confident Interview Scheme for eligible candidates.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Hours - 40 hours - 6 on 4 off shift pattern
Location - Canley/Wednesbury/Park Lane
Are you a Police Dog handler? Are you ready for a new challenge? We are looking for Police Constable Dog Handlers to join us at West Midlands Police, providing proactive and reactive assistance in support of all operational officers and specialist departments with appropriate use of police dogs. This can include locating and retrieving evidence or offenders, controlling potential and actual disturbances, and enhancing officer and public safety.
Key Responsibilities
- Respond promptly to requests for a police dog, supplying professional expertise and tactical advice and operational support to front line officers.
- Conduct searches using general purpose and specialist dogs in support of local officers; to expedite the location of missing persons and arrest of offenders and to support the containment of dangerous dogs out of control, including inter-family dog attacks and cases on private property to protect public safety.
- Conduct directed patrols in response to local priorities and in support of divisional and area officers, to detect and prevent crime.
- Support front line officers in the capture and control of dogs on premises to enable a safe working environment when conducting search warrants or interventions into premises.
- Provide a source of specialist advice to operational policing units on the deployment of dogs, to contribute to the development of appropriate strategies and tactical plans in support of front-line initiatives.
- Promote and deliver educational talks and displays to colleagues and members of the public; to acquaint them with the roles and skills of police dogs, and to support the development of positive relationships between the police and public.
- Undertake the proper care, training and handling of general purpose and specialist police dogs; to ensure the health, wellbeing and operational effectiveness of the dog(s).
All roles are expected to know, understand and act within the ethics and values of the Police Service.
Prior education and experience
- Completed initial training and probationary period.
- Meet Force specific fitness requirements for role on application (level 6.4 bleep test).
- Be a current licensed general purpose police dog handler.
- Hold standard or advanced driving grade.
Essential Skills
- Good team working skills demonstrating awareness of individual differences, and a proactive approach to relationship development with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Good communication skills with the ability to set out logical arguments clearly, adapting language, form and message to meet the needs of different people and audiences in diverse situations.
- Able to produce concise reports or other documents.
- Demonstrate experience of using effective communication skills with members of the public, particularly in confrontational situations.
- Problem solving skills with the ability to identify cause and effect and develop a course of action designed to target root causes as well mitigate effects.
Desirable Skills
- LSO ticket.
Essential for the role
- Be a current licensed general-purpose dog handler.
- A secure garden - big enough to house a kennel and exercise space.
- Access to a suitable vehicle to transport dog/s.
- Able to identify, analyse and manage risk to inform balanced, proportionate, evidence-based decisions.
- Good time management skills with the ability to organise and prioritise.
- Able to use standard IT packages, systems and/or databases to fulfil role requirements.
- Able to review own performance objectively and take steps to make improvements.
Professional Registration/Licences
- NPCC General Purpose Licence
- NPCC Licence for Specialist Dogs
Contact
For further information please contact Inspector Leanne Chapman 07391019029
West Midlands Police reserve the right to close applications earlier than the date advertised.
About Us
West Midlands Police is England's second largest police force. Together we serve the 2.9 million people who call the region home - one of the youngest and most diverse populations in Europe. The shared vision of our 12,500 officers, staff and volunteers is to be recognised as a police service that is big enough to cope with everything that is asked of us, while showing we are small enough to care about the things that really matter to people. This vision is built on three strategic priorities:
- A service that works for local people
- Engaged communities
- Employer of choice
We will achieve each of these goals to enable us fulfil our mission of working in partnership, making communities safer.
These are the values which guide all of our actions and decision making:
- Service - we put people first
- Integrity - we always do the right thing
- Compassion - we see the person needing help
- Professionalism - we lead by good example
- Equality, Diversity and Human Rights - we treat everyone fairly
West Midlands Police is a Disability Confident Leader - the highest level an organisation can achieve under the scheme run by the Department of Work and Pensions. We operate a Disability Confident Interview Scheme. All candidates who share with us that they are disabled and meet the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview.
*There may be times we cannot interview all disabled people who meet the essential criteria for the job. For example, seasonal and high-peak times. In these situations, we may limit the number of interviews offered to disabled and non-disabled people. In these circumstances, we will select the candidates who best meet the essential criteria for the job.
Dog Handler Transferee employer: West Midlands Police
Contact Detail:
West Midlands Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dog Handler Transferee
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties and responsibilities of a Dog Handler at West Midlands Police. Understanding the nuances of the role will help you articulate your relevant experience and how it aligns with their needs during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former police dog handlers to gain insights into the role and the culture at West Midlands Police. This can provide you with valuable information that you can use to tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions by practising how you would handle various situations involving police dogs. This will not only boost your confidence but also show your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on the latest developments in canine training and police dog operations. Being knowledgeable about current best practices will demonstrate your commitment to professional development and your readiness to contribute effectively to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Dog Handler Transferee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as a Police Dog Handler. Include specific examples of your skills in handling dogs, conducting searches, and supporting operational officers. Use keywords from the job description to align your experience with what West Midlands Police is looking for.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and your understanding of the responsibilities involved. Mention your previous experiences, how they relate to the key responsibilities listed, and why you want to join West Midlands Police specifically.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated in confrontational situations or worked collaboratively with colleagues to achieve a common goal.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a role like this.
How to prepare for a job interview at West Midlands Police
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience as a police dog handler in detail. Highlight specific situations where you successfully used your skills to assist operational officers, and be ready to provide examples of how you handled challenging scenarios.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since good communication is essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Be ready to explain how you've effectively communicated with both colleagues and the public, especially in high-pressure situations.
✨Understand the Role's Responsibilities
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Be ready to discuss how you would respond to requests for a police dog and provide tactical advice, showcasing your understanding of the role's demands.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Problem-Solving
Highlight your ability to work well in a team and solve problems effectively. Prepare examples that demonstrate your proactive approach to relationship development with colleagues and your ability to identify and address root causes in various situations.
