Transportatin Security Officer (Trainee)
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Positions
Series and Grade:
SV-1802- Pay Band D
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Performs basic tasks as a trainee Transportation Security Officer (Screener) under the close review of a team leader, supervisor, or Master/Expert TSO including, but not limited to, those described below. As experience is gained, supervision becomes more general in nature. The TSO:
- receives classroom and on-the-job instruction in various facets of the work;
- conducts screening at any airport, or other transportation terminal, as assigned, that provides commercial service to the public; conducts screening of passengers, baggage, and cargo, as assigned;
- assists in monitoring the flow of passengers, baggage (carry-on and checked), and cargo through the screening checkpoint to facilitate the orderly and efficient processing of passengers, baggage, and cargo;
- implements security screening procedures that are central to Transportation Security Administration objectives and which protect the traveling public by preventing any deadly or dangerous objects from being transported onto aircraft;
- acts in a professional and courteous manner at all times and recognizes when individuals may require special screening or assistance; remains cognizant of individuals' behaviors as they pass through security checkpoints and notifies superiors immediately of unusual activities that may require intervention;
- operates various equipment such as walk-through and hand-held metal detectors, Explosive Detection System and Explosive Trace Detection System, and/or X-ray;
- as assigned, performs routine maintenance of equipment such as systems calibrations using technical manuals, handbooks, standard operating procedures;
- maintains close communication with lead, supervisor, or senior employee assigned regarding any issues that might reveal a weakness or vulnerable area of security screening that may be discovered during the course of screening duties; participates in information briefings concerning security- sensitive or classified information;
- as required, writes incident reports or other documents that convey required information and utilizes computer hardware and software to create documents and report information in the appropriate format; and,
- performs other duties, as assigned.
KSAs and Competencies:
- Attention to Detail: Is thorough when performing work; double-checks the accuracy of information to ensure high-quality and precise work products.
- Customer Service: Addresses the needs of a variety of people, including those who may be irritated or confused; anticipates and achieves successful interactions with others.
- Decisiveness: Exercises good judgment by making sound and well-informed decisions; perceives the impact and implications of decisions; makes effective and timely decisions, even when data are limited or solutions produce unpleasant consequences.
- Flexibility: Is open to change and new information; adapts behavior and work methods in response to new information, changing conditions, or unexpected obstacles; adjusts rapidly to new situations warranting attention and resolution.
- Integrity/Honesty: Instills trust and confidence; contributes to a culture that fosters high standards of ethics; behaves in a fair and ethical manner toward others; is guided by a set of values when interacting with others or making decisions; and, demonstrates a sense of responsibility and commitment to public service.
- Interpersonal Skills: Considers and responds appropriately to the needs, feelings, and capabilities of different people in different situations; is tactful, compassionate and sensitive; and, treats others with respect.
- Oral Communication: Composes and presents information, ideas, or directions to others; listens and interprets effectively and clarifies information as needed.
- Written Communication: Expresses facts in writing in a clear and concise manner.
- Security Equipment Knowledge: Knowledge in operation of security equipment (e.g., passenger X-ray technology, baggage X-ray technology, Explosive Trace Detection, passenger screening wands, magnetometer/walk through metal detector, two-way radios).
- Security Screening Policies and Procedures: Knowledge of permitted and prohibited items, knowledge of current Standardized Operating Procedures (SOP) including security breach, knowledge of current performance protocols (e.g., hand wanding techniques and special search methods), knowledge of information on travel documents.
- Technology Application: Uses machines, tools and equipment effectively; uses computers and computer applications to prepare documents and communicate information in the appropriate format.
Visit the TSA Competency Table for more information on competency development.
Conditions of Employment:
- Appointment to this position is contingent upon a negative drug test result. Any individual tentatively selected for this position will be required to submit to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
- Meet and maintain medical requirements for screening work (including a medical examination and physical abilities assessment) including, but not limited to, the following (Note: Detailed information appears in the vacancy announcement for this position.):
- Efficiently and thoroughly manipulate and lift baggage, containers, and other objects subject to security processing;
- Ability to repeatedly lift and carry items weighing up to 70 pounds;
- Maintain physical agility that would allow them to squat, bend, and learn to inspect individuals and baggage/cargo;
- Maintain ability to walk up to two (2) miles during a shift and stand for prolonged periods of time;
- Maintain a measured threshold for sight:
- Distance vision correctable to 20/30 or better in the best eye and 20/100 or better in the worse eye
- Near vision correctable to 20/40 or better binocular
- Maintain a measured threshold for hearing:
- Average hearing loss of 25 decibels (ANSI) at 500, 1000, 2000, and 3000 Hz in each ear
- Single reading of 45 decibels at 4000 and 6000 Hz in each ear
- Distinguish between different colors that will be a part of images displayed on automated screens:
- Color perception (e.g., red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, brown, black, white, gray). Note: Color filters for enhancing color discrimination are prohibited.
- Maintain eligibility for a security clearance;
- Maintains proficiency in all facets of assigned work sufficient to ensure certification/recertification;
- Must be available to work various shifts and overtime, as needed;
- Must be proficient in English (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, listening); and,
- Must possess United States' Citizenship or be a U.S. National.
- Note: Exposure to potentially lethal devices and dangerous chemicals is inherent in this position.
- Note: This position is not covered by Law Enforcement Availability Pay or Law Enforcement Retirement.
Duty Location:
Nationwide
- Visit USAJOBS to see if this position is open and view other TSA positions.
