Transportation Security Officer

Quick Facts

• Role: Transportation Security Officer (TSO)

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

• Work: Shift-based with potential overtime; training travel required

Description

Transportation Security Officers provide security and protection of travelers in a courteous, professional manner across transportation systems. Duties include operating screening equipment and technology to identify dangerous objects, performing searches (including pat-downs), controlling terminal entry/exit points, and making effective decisions in crisis and routine situations. The role also includes continuous development of critical thinking skills and strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures.

Responsibilities

• Operate screening equipment and technology for passengers, baggage, and cargo

• Conduct physical searches and screening (e.g., pat-downs; bag searches; lift/carry bins and property up to 50 lbs)

• Control terminal entry and exit points

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

• Maintain awareness in stressful environments with alarms, machinery, crowds, time pressure, and disruptive passengers

• Apply risk-based security screening protocols as required

• Follow and implement applicable Standard Operating Procedures; adapt to new information

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship or U.S. national

• Minimum age 18

• Selective Service registration (if applicable)

• Pass structured interview, drug screening, medical evaluation, and background investigation

• Subject to random drug/alcohol testing

• Available for various shifts and overtime

• Proficient in English

• Mandatory travel for new-hire training and occasional travel

• Meet physical demands (squat/bend; repeatedly lift ~50 lbs; walk up to 3 miles; stand up to 4 hours)

• For SV-D pay band: 1 year full-time security/aviation screening/X-ray technician experience or high school diploma/GED/HiSET/TASC

• 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 (exception possible)

Benefits

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

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

• Flexible Spending Account

• Employee Assistance Program

• Personal leave days and paid federal holidays

• Potential flexible work schedules and other supports (e.g., tuition reimbursement, uniform allowance, transportation subsidies, fitness centers)

• Training and development opportunities