From service to security: Wagtail UK recruiting veterans for specialist detection roles
A leading UK security and detection company is actively recruiting new staff – and says people leaving the Armed Forces are particularly well suited to the job.
Wagtail UK, specialists in detection dog services used across law enforcement, government agencies and commercial sectors, is expanding its team and offering a range of roles for disciplined, motivated individuals with operational experience.
Recent operations highlight the impact the company’s work can have. During a joint enforcement operation in Lancashire, Wagtail UK detection dogs Hugo and Ziggy helped uncover hidden stashes of illegal tobacco and vapes worth more than £100,000 across several premises.
Working alongside Lancashire County Council Trading Standards and local police, the trained detection dogs located concealed compartments containing illicit cigarettes, hand-rolling tobacco and cash. In total, officers seized more than 12,000 packs of illegal tobacco products, along with thousands of pounds in cash linked to criminal activity.
Operations like this are exactly where Wagtail’s specialist teams make a difference — combining highly trained dogs with skilled handlers capable of working calmly and effectively in operational environments.
Why Service Leavers Are Ideal
According to the company, people transitioning from military careers often bring the exact qualities needed for these roles.
Detection dog work demands discipline, situational awareness, teamwork and the ability to operate in demanding environments – attributes that many Armed Forces personnel develop throughout their service.
Experience in areas such as security operations, patrol work, explosives detection, logistics or working with animals can all translate well into the sector.
The company also values the leadership skills, resilience and professionalism that veterans bring to civilian security roles.
Current Vacancies
Wagtail UK is currently recruiting for several positions including:
These roles offer the opportunity to work in specialist detection operations across the UK and internationally, supporting law enforcement agencies and protecting communities from illicit trade and other threats.
A Growing Sector
The fight against illegal tobacco and vape sales is a growing priority for enforcement agencies. In Lancashire alone, Trading Standards officers have confiscated tens of thousands of illicit cigarettes and vapes across hundreds of seizures in the past year.
Detection dog teams play an increasingly important role in identifying concealed contraband and supporting investigations.
For service leavers looking for a career that continues the sense of mission and teamwork experienced in the military, roles like these can provide a natural next step.
Those interested in learning more about the opportunities available can view current vacancies on the Wagtail UK website.
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