TSD-MDD Trainer

General

As APOPO is scaling up its operations in Ukraine, we are actively seeking expressions of interest from Qualified and Experienced personnel to serve as a Technical Survey/Mine Detection Dogs Trainer in the Program.

About the position

To maintain high standards for the MDD/TSD capacity in country, it is crucial to have a dedicated MDD/TSD Trainer in country. The MDD/TSD Trainer will be responsible for ensuring the effective training, evaluation, and maintenance of MDDs/TSDs and handlers.

About you

We are seeking a candidate with:

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in Mine or Explosive Detection Dog training
• Practical experience in Humanitarian Mine Action or military programs
• Strong understanding of canine behavior, scent detection techniques, and training protocols
• Familiarity with IMAS and Humanitarian Mine Action standards
• Experience working with national staff in multicultural environments
• Veterinary or animal care background
• Knowledge of Ukrainian or local languages
• Experience working in low-resource, post-conflict environments
• Excellent communication skills with dogs and people
• Patience when working with animals and people who may learn at different paces
• Ability to meet deadlines and work calmly under pressure
• Fluent spoken and written English language skills
• Ability to enter Schengen area and Ukraine with a visa on arrival

The key job requirements include:

Dog Training & Evaluation

• Develop and implement individual and group training plans for MDDs/TSDs
• Conduct operational readiness evaluations (OREs) and internal quality checks
• Ensure training aligns with IMAS, NMAS, APOPO SOPs, and donor requirements
• Conduct refresher training to maintain MDD/TSD proficiency in operational settings
• Conduct dog training under the guidance of the Head Dog Trainer, maintaining APOPO standards
• Supervise the training of the dogs for accreditation

Handler Training & Mentorship

• Provide theoretical and practical training to national dog handlers
• Mentor handlers in effective communication, handling techniques, and daily routines
• Conduct performance assessments and support professional development
• Supervise the training of the handlers for accreditation and certification

Health, Welfare and safety

• Collaborate with APOPO’s Health & Welfare Officer, local veterinary and kennel staff to ensure optimal canine health
• Monitor physical and behavioral health of dogs, reporting concerns proactively
• Enforce welfare standards including rest periods, hydration, and humane treatment
• Implement and enforce safety protocols for MDD/TSD teams to minimize risks associated with mine detection operations
• Implement and enforce the APOPO H&W SOP
• Monitor and promote the physical and psychological welfare of all dogs

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain detailed records for all dogs (training logs, health, certifications)
• Support operational and donor reporting on MDD/TSD team performance
• Assist in induction and integration of new MDDs/TSDs as needed

Reporting and Documentation

• Prepare and submit timely and accurate reports on MDD/TSD activities, including progress, challenges, and achievements
• Maintain comprehensive documentation on MDD/TSD team performance, training records, and operational data

Other responsibilities

• Adhere to APOPO’s organizationally established Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, ensuring the protection and dignity of staff, communities, and animals
• Adhere to APOPO’s strategic directives and policies, including established procedures in the Program

About the Program

APOPO’s Mine Action Program in Ukraine was established in early 2024. The programme currently has 4 Operational Technical Survey Dog Teams (32 dogs) and is expanding its capacity with 2 additional teams in 2025. As an established and certified HMA Operator, APOPO is currently operating in partnership with Mines Advisory Group, aiming to deploy its TSD-MDD Teams in Mykolaiv and Kharkiv Oblasts in 2025. The Program Office is in Kyiv and the Central Dog Training Facility is located in Krasylivka, within Kyivska Oblast where the teams conduct their maintenance training before being sent to operate in the Southern and Eastern Oblasts.

Estimations around contaminated land in Ukraine are astronomical. When referring to the extent of the contamination, officials refer to Suspected or Confirmed Hazardous Areas, areas which were marked because of direct or non-direct evidence of landmines.. Because Ukraine desperately need land back to resume agricultural and other economic activities, there is an urgent need to define the actual boundaries of these HA’s. Our TSD teams are deployed for TS in Suspected Hazardous Areas (SHA) to frame the contamination and accelerate area reduction, utilizing the GPS track & trace system to manage the survey progress. In parallel, we have 1 TSD team operating as MDDs to confirm presence/absence of mines and ERW behind machines.

Contract Information

All International staff are contracted on a yearly basis, and contracts are renewed based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding. The full terms and conditions of the role will be provided once the candidate reaches the interview stage.

The application is open for both National and International staff. Employment of Nationals is done in accordance with the Ukrainian labor law, and the summary of benefits will be specified during the interview stage.

In general, APOPO’s International Staff are entitled to the following compensation:

• Competitive salary with a living allowance that increases with service.
• Accommodation: APOPO will provide accommodation in-country.
• Leave: You are entitled to six weeks out of the programme per year.
• Travel: Two international travels home per year.
• 24/7 Personal accident and medical expenses travel insurance cover according to APOPO policies

How to apply

Send your CV, a 1-page motivation letter, copies of relevant degrees and certificates, and contact information for at least two references. The deadline for this application is Monday, 5/5/2025 23:59 CET.

Please note that, due to the volume of applications we receive, only selected candidates will be contacted for an interview.

To submit, click here.

APOPO is committed to safeguarding the well-being of all individuals we work with, particularly vulnerable groups. All staff must uphold APOPO’s safeguarding policies, promote a safe and respectful environment, and fulfill safeguarding responsibilities relevant to their roles. Background checks, including reference and qualification verifications, are part of the recruitment process.

APOPO is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion within our workforce and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, regardless of gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.

Learn more about APOPO at www.apopo.org