Transportation Security Officer

Quick Facts

• Role: Transportation Security Officer (TSO)

• Focus: Security screening and protection of air travelers, airports, and aircraft

• Work environment: High-stress, noise, time pressure, and public interaction

• Salary range (Garden City, KS): $46,105–$56,844 annually (includes locality pay of 17.06%), or $22.09–$27.24 per hour

Description

Transportation Security Officers provide security and protection of travelers across transportation sectors in a courteous and professional manner, including potentially securing high-profile events and figures. In this role within TSA Security Operations, you will screen passengers, baggage, and cargo to prevent dangerous objects from being transported onto aircraft.

Responsibilities

• Operate screening equipment and technology to identify dangerous objects in baggage, cargo, and on passengers

• Perform searches and screening, including pat-downs and bag/property searches; lift/carry and weigh items up to 50 lb

• Control terminal entry and exit points

• Interact with the public: provide directions and respond to inquiries

• Maintain focus and situational awareness in stressful environments to identify potential life-threatening or mass-destruction devices and make effective decisions in crisis and routine situations

• Apply critical thinking and risk-based security screening protocols that vary by program requirements

• Retain and implement knowledge of applicable Standard Operating Procedures; adapt to new information and unexpected obstacles

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• Must possess U.S. citizenship or be a U.S. National

• Must be at least 18 at the time of application

• Selective Service registration (if applicable)

• Must pass a structured interview, drug screening, medical evaluation, and background investigation

• Subject to post-employment random drug and/or alcohol testing

• Must be available to work various shifts and overtime

• Must be proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking, comprehending)

• Mandatory travel for training; occasional travel may be required

• Exposure to potentially lethal devices and dangerous chemicals is inherent

Physical Demands

• Maintain physical agility to squat and bend

• Ability to repeatedly lift and manipulate baggage/containers around 50 lb

• Ability to walk up to 3 miles during a shift and stand up to 4 hours

Qualifications (SV-D pay band equivalent to GS-5/6)

• Meet one of the following:

  • 1 year full-time experience in the security industry, aviation screening, or as an X-ray technician

  • OR high school diploma, GED, HiSET, or TASC high school equivalency certificate

Additional Requirements

• Occasional travel for New Hire training: typically minimum 3 weeks in full-time duty status; may require up to 6 weeks away from the airport of record

• Credit check: no delinquent federal/state taxes or past due child support

• Residency requirement: lived in the U.S. for 3 of the last 5 years prior to applying (exceptions may apply)

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance

• Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (similar to 401(k))

• Flexible Spending Account

• Employee Assistance Program

• Paid leave and paid federal holidays

• Additional possible benefits: tuition reimbursement, transportation subsidies, uniform allowance, health and wellness programs, fitness centers

• Training and development opportunities; situational telework may be permitted per policy