SKILLBRIDGE.MIL DATALAST SYNC 2026-07-25
SkillBridgeConnectby Civic HackingPrograms
Programs / Echelon K9
In official directorySynced 2026-07-25

Echelon K9

USAFUSAUSCGUSMCUSNUSSF
Program summary

This SkillBridge position provides transitioning service members with structured, hands-on training in professional K9 operations. Participants will receive instruction and supervised experience in police and working-dog training systems, canine handling, obedience, detection fundamentals, patrol applications, safety protocols, and operational standards. This is a training and professional development program designed to prepare participants for civilian careers in canine training, law enforcement, and security fields.This position is non-employment, unpaid by the industry partner, and conducted in compliance with all DoD SkillBridge requirements.Training ObjectivesParticipants will:Learn professional K9 handling and training fundamentalsDevelop an understanding of canine behavior, drive, and conditioningAssist in structured training sessions under instructor supervisionLearn safety protocols, risk management, and use-of-force considerationsGain exposure to operational K9 deployments and scenario-based trainingDevelop instructional and communication skills applicable to civilian K9 roles

Roles & job description

SkillBridge K9 Trainer / Canine Operations Apprentice

Target military occupations

31B, 31K, 11B, 11C, 19D, 18 Series, 12B, 3P0X1, 3P0X1A, 5811, 5812, 0311, 0331, 0352, MA, SO, SB, ME

Eligibility notes

Limited Availability | Contact Required Prior to Application.Participation is selective. Applicants will be interviewed.**Please fill out "contact us" form to apply

Additional notes

Preferred Military Occupational Codes (MOCs):Military Police, Military Working Dog Handlers, Security Forces, Infantry, Special Operations, or comparable operational roles. Applicants from other specialties may be considered based on experience, leadership background, and alignment with program standards.

Candidate reviews

No reviews yet. Reviews unlock for candidates 30 days after adding this program to their tracker — integrity over volume.

Interview prep for this program
Ask them
  • ▸ "How many of your past SkillBridge interns received full-time offers?" — a serious program knows the number.
  • ▸ "Who will my day-to-day mentor be, and what does week one look like?"
  • ▸ "The listing says 151 - 180 days — can that flex to my approved window if my command shortens it?"
  • ▸ "Is relocation expected for a full-time offer, or can I convert where I am?"
  • ▸ "You list 31B, 31K, 11B — what did interns from those specialties end up doing here?"
  • ▸ Confirm the eligibility notes above — ask exactly what they need from you and when.
Bring to the conversation
  • ✓ Your projected start window and separation date (from your profile)
  • ✓ Your command's approval status — even "packet drafted" signals you're serious
  • ✓ Your civilian-translated resume bullets (generate them here)
  • ✓ A written training-plan ask — you'll need it for your packet anyway