Transportation Security Officer

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a vital agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is responsible for safeguarding the transportation systems of the United States. Operating primarily in the aviation sector, TSA ensures the security and protection of air travelers, airports, and aircrafts throughout the country. TSA is committed to providing professional, courteous services while maintaining effective security operations that help prevent dangerous objects from being transported on aircraft and within transportation facilities. The agency is recognized for its rigorous training programs and dedication to the safety of the public and its employees. With a reputation as a leader in security and compliance inspection, TSA plays a crucial role in national security and infrastructure protection. Currently, TSA is seeking dedicated individuals for the role of Transportation Security Officer (TSO) at the Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) in Santa Maria, California. This permanent, part-time position offers a competitive salary ranging from $47,019 to $65,615 per year, inclusive of locality pay. TSOs are essential frontline personnel who monitor security checkpoints and use various screening technologies to detect and prevent threats in baggage, cargo, and passengers. The role requires a strong sense of responsibility, the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment, and excellent interpersonal skills to interact positively with travelers. The TSO position involves operating advanced screening equipment and technology to identify prohibited or dangerous objects. Candidates will perform searches that may include physical pat-downs of passengers and inspection of luggage, requiring the ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. TSOs are entrusted with controlling terminal entry and exit points, providing directions to the public, and responding to passenger inquiries with professionalism and care. Adaptability and continuous development of critical thinking skills are vital, as TSOs must assess and mitigate security threats in accordance with risk-based screening protocols. Candidates should be prepared to work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed. The role demands physical agility, including the ability to squat, bend, stand for prolonged periods, and walk up to three miles during a shift. Training is comprehensive and may require up to six weeks of travel in a full-time duty status away from the airport of record. TSA emphasizes employee health and safety, with requirements to wear personal protective equipment when necessary. This position does not require a formal education qualification; however, candidates must meet several conditions such as U.S. citizenship or nationality, selective service registration, passing drug screenings, medical evaluations, and thorough background investigations. TSA values integrity, attention to detail, flexibility, teamwork, and strong communication skills. The agency offers opportunities for career advancement within DHS and a robust benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and employee assistance programs. Joining the TSA as a Transportation Security Officer offers a meaningful career dedicated to public service, national security, and the protection of transportation infrastructure. It is a role suited for individuals who are committed to upholding the laws of the United States while delivering exceptional service to the public in a dynamic and challenging environment.

• You must possess U.S. citizenship or be a U.S. national
• You must have reached the minimum age (18) at the time of application
• Selective Service registration is required
• 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, as needed
• Must be proficient in English (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, comprehending)
• Mandatory travel for training and occasional travel may be required
• Exposure to potentially lethal devices and dangerous chemicals is inherent in this position
• Maintain physical agility to ensure ability to squat and bend
• Ability to repeatedly lift and manipulate baggage, containers, weighing approximately 50 pounds and other objects subject to security processing
• Ability to walk up to three (3) miles during a shift and stand for prolonged periods (up to 4 hours) of time