Canine Detection at the Pantex Plant

Introduction & Background:

The Pantex plant is located just east of Amarillo, Texas. It is a Department of Energy (DOE) National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) national security site, managed and operated by PanTeXas Deterrence LLC. PanTeXas Deterrence LLC is seeking services to a contractor to provide the services of three (3) canine detection teams for a one year period with the option to extend in one year increments up to four (4) option years.

General Scope Description:

The canine detection team will consist of one handler and one canine that are certified together. The team will conduct explosive detection searches at fixed posts and other locations as designated by Pantex Security. The team will operate in the general vicinity of a Pantex Security Police Officer (SPO), but not under direct observation or escort. The canine detection teams will have the requisite knowledge and experience required to detect explosives. The explosive odors the teams will detect are listed in the Pantex Canine Program Certification/Recertification Performance document. The team must be capable of meeting at the minimum, the performance test protocol outlined in the Department of Energy Performance Test Working Group Good Practices (PTWG). Canines must be social and able to work in their operational environment. Canines must be temperament tested and demonstrated to have sound disposition and good working skills. Canines must undergo a thorough health examination, at least annually. Canines will be vaccinated in accordance with state regulations and proof of vaccinations shall be made available upon request. The contractor shall provide all required training materials and training equipment to include all odors necessary to train and maintain the detection canines. The canine shall be transported inside a contractor provided climate controlled vehicle. Canines cannot be transported in the exterior bed of a truck or similar conveyance. Water and a climate controlled environment will be provided for the canine to rest between search activities. Canines must be removed from the plant site when not working.

The contractor shall provide handlers with active DOE “Q” clearances or handlers that are capable of obtaining DOE “Q” clearances. The contractor must possess an ATF license in order to provide their own high order training aids.

Interested parties shall notify Morgan Moon Perryman at morgan.moon@pantex.doe.gov with a point of contact that will need to receive the RFP, including email and phone number.

Expressions of interest and capability statements will be due on April 30, 2025.