At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team as a Police Constable Dog Handler, tackling diverse policing challenges daily.
- Company: Be part of Avon and Somerset Police, a leading and innovative force in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy professional development opportunities, a supportive team, and a chance to work with police dogs.
- Other info: You’ll need a suitable home for a working dog and a vehicle for transport.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your skills in a progressive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a current serving police dog handler with experience in operational policing.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 € per year.
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Job Description
If you reside outside of the force area and wish to apply, this would be subject to a special dispensation being granted by Avon and Somerset.
An exciting opportunity has arisen in Avon and Somerset within one of the Operational Support Teams (OST) for an
experienced, current serving PC Dog Handler.
The Avon and Somerset dog handling team are one of the most progressive dog sections within the UK and are responsible for delivering specialist operational policing services 24/7 to the communities of Avon and Somerset.
Job Description
If you reside outside of the force area and wish to apply, this would be subject to a special dispensation being granted by Avon and Somerset.
An exciting opportunity has arisen in Avon and Somerset within one of the Operational Support Teams (OST) for an experienced, current serving PC Dog Handler.
The Avon and Somerset dog handling team are one of the most progressive dog sections within the UK and are responsible for delivering specialist operational policing services 24/7 to the communities of Avon and Somerset.
This varied, much sought after role varies on a daily basis. You will be providing first class Police dog policing to the communities of Avon and Somerset with duties including public disorder, searching and tracking to name but a few. This role will help to build on your current skill base getting you right in the centre of the most interesting and crucial situations. You will need to be ready to be deployed to spontaneous incidents, planned operations and other significant events requiring dog policing services anywhere within the OST Force area.
On a day to day basis you will be working as part of a friendly team of 5 Dog handlers reporting to the duty OST Sergeant and Specialist Police Dog Leads in Force all working towards the same common goal of providing first class protective dog services. As part of a larger overall team, you will not only be supported by other dog handlers trained to the highest of standards but also a collaborative team of progressive dog training staff under the leadership of Dog Unit Training Manager and 5 Full time trainers.
Of course, you will be responsible for maintaining and enhancing Police Dog/s in your care doing your best to provide them with an environment in which they are well cared for and given the opportunity in the best possible environment to continue to develop their specialist skills.
This role will provide plenty of opportunities for your future development. As one of the leading Police dog handling units within the UK we provide regular continued professional development opportunity’s and are at the forefront of new specialist capability. This will include the progression in to handling a specialist search dog (Drugs/Explosive/Victim recovery/Digital detection).
This role will require you to live in a home which allows you to keep a working police dog and have the space for a kennel in a secure back garden as the dog will be living with you. You will also need to have a suitable vehicle in which you can transport the dog/s from home to your place of work.
If you have any questions about the role please email:
Inspector Jo Hayward-Melen - Joanna.Hayward-Melen@avonandsomerset.police.uk
PS Samuel Davies
T/PS Ben Smith Ben.Smith@avonandsomerset.police.uk
PS Samuel Davies Samuel.Davies@avonandsomerset.police.uk
No ride along or attachments will be available until the practical assessments of this process have been completed.
Am I eligible?
You must be a current serving a police dog handler.
You Must Be Transferring From a Home Office Force
- have no live written improvement notices issued under the Police (Performance) Regulations 2012 or reduction in rank under those procedures in the previous 18 months
- have no live written warning, final written warning or extended final written warning issued under the Police (Conduct) Regulations 2012; (note – a finding of misconduct but where no separate penalty is applied (Regulation 35(1)(b)), does not debar an officer from proceeding)
- have no improvement notice/action plan in place, in accordance with the Police Officer Performance and Attendance procedures.
- Be an experienced Dog handler within your current force.
Avon and Somerset Constabulary has gained a reputation as a pioneering and innovative force which has led the way on a number of initiatives and gained recognition for our ongoing commitment to support, develop and empower our staff to deliver the best possible service to the public.
We have the potential to offer you a better quality of life coupled with exciting and challenging policing.
Avon and Somerset polices 1,844 square miles of moorland, farmland, coastline, holiday resorts, market towns and cities including Bath and Bristol, one of England’s eight core cities. It is intersected by the M4 and M5, major rail routes to Wales and the Southwest, and home to Bristol International Airport and Bristol Port, Britain’s most centrally located deep sea port. Glastonbury Festival, Europe’s largest music festival, and Badminton Horse Trials are two of the force’s most significant events.
A diverse, multi-cultural population of 1.65 million and approximately 679,000 households, swelled by a large student population and tourists, brings challenges in policing, with pockets of substantial wealth contrasting deprived localities and communities. Ensuring equality of access to policing for all and achieving a diverse and representative workforce are priorities for the force.
Avon and Somerset Constabulary are proud to support a representative workforce. We are neurodiversity and inclusive organisation that welcomes applications from everyone.
The Recruitment Process
- To apply for this vacancy, click apply at the bottom of this screen.
- Shortlisting process – review of training records, sickness record and probationary completion from current force and suitability for the role
- Interviews will be conducted via Teams
- 2-day practical assessment, including fitness test
- Pre-employment checks.
What You Need To Know
Current Force policy requires officers to live within the Avon and Somerset Constabulary borders and ordinarily within a 20-mile radius of their posting. However, we would strongly recommend that you do not enter into any lease or purchase of property until a posting is confirmed.
Postings are determined based on operational demand and priorities. Individual preferences will be noted, and attempts made to accommodate, depending on available vacancies.
You will ordinarily be expected to remain in your first posting within the Constabulary for a minimum of two years however this would not preclude you applying for promotion should you wish in this timeframe.
Salary and leave
Officers in the Avon and Somerset Constabulary are paid in accordance with the national rates. Salaries are paid directly into officer\'s bank or building society account on the 28th of each month.
Leave already booked by a successful officer will be honoured for this year, but officers must advise us of these dates in writing when invited to attend for interview.
Any Time off in Lieu must be taken prior to joining Avon and Somerset Constabulary.
Under most circumstances pension rights are directly transferable from one force to another.
If you are not yet ready to transfer or would like more information, please contact TalentTransferees@avonandsomerset.police.uk
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#J-18808-LjbffrPolice Constable Dog Handler Transferee employer: Avon and Somerset Police
Avon and Somerset Constabulary is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to staff development and community service. As part of a progressive dog handling team, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises professional growth, with opportunities to advance your skills in specialist dog handling. Located in a diverse region rich in natural beauty and vibrant communities, this role offers not only a fulfilling career but also a chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the people you serve.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Police Constable Dog Handler Transferee
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Avon and Somerset Constabulary's values and mission. Understanding their commitment to community policing and diversity will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former dog handlers from Avon and Somerset Police. They can provide valuable insights into the role, the team dynamics, and what the interview process might entail, giving you an edge over other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the practical assessment by maintaining your fitness levels and familiarising yourself with the specific skills required for dog handling. This could include training techniques, handling procedures, and understanding the legal aspects of dog use in policing.
✨Tip Number 4
Research recent incidents or operations involving the dog handling unit in Avon and Somerset. Being able to discuss these examples during your interview will show your genuine interest in the role and your proactive approach to staying informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Police Constable Dog Handler Transferee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Police Constable Dog Handler role. Familiarise yourself with the specific duties mentioned in the job description, such as public disorder management and tracking.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight your experience as a dog handler. Include relevant training, certifications, and any specific incidents where you successfully managed dog handling operations. Make sure to emphasise your teamwork skills, as you'll be working closely with other handlers.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in this position and how your background makes you a suitable candidate. Mention your current role, your passion for dog handling, and your commitment to community safety.
Prepare for the Interview:If selected for an interview, prepare by reviewing common interview questions for police roles, especially those related to dog handling. Be ready to discuss your experiences, decision-making processes, and how you handle stressful situations involving dogs.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avon and Somerset Police
✨Know Your Dog Handling Skills
Make sure to highlight your experience and specific skills as a dog handler. Be prepared to discuss scenarios where you've successfully managed your dog in various situations, such as public disorder or tracking.
✨Understand the Role's Requirements
Familiarise yourself with the specific duties of a Police Constable Dog Handler at Avon and Somerset. This includes being ready for spontaneous incidents and planned operations, so demonstrate your adaptability and readiness for diverse challenges.
✨Show Team Spirit
Emphasise your ability to work within a team. The role involves collaborating with other dog handlers and training staff, so share examples of how you've successfully worked in a team environment in your previous roles.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewers about the dog handling unit and its operations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
