Transportation Security Officer

Summary

Transportation Security Officers are responsible for providing security and protection of travelers across all transportation sectors in a courteous and professional manner. Their duties may also extend to securing high‑profile events, important figures, and other activities that include or impact our transportation systems.

Bridgeton, MO (STL – St. Louis Lambert International Airport): $45,440 to $58,287 annually (or $21.77–$27.93 per hour), including a 20.03% locality pay.

• Operating screening equipment and technology to identify dangerous objects in baggage, cargo, and on passengers.
• Performing searches, including physical pat‑downs, property searches, bag searches, and lifting/carrying items up to 50 lbs.
• Controlling terminal entry and exit points.
• Interacting with the public and responding to inquiries.
• Maintaining focus and awareness in a stressful environment with noise and crowds, preserving the ability to identify and locate potentially life‑threatening or mass‑destruction devices.
• Engaging in continuous development of critical‑thinking skills to mitigate security threats, including application of risk‑based screening protocols.
• Retaining and implementing knowledge of all applicable Standard Operating Procedures, displaying responsible and dependable behavior, and adapting to new information or unexpected obstacles.

• Must possess U.S. Citizenship or be a U.S. National.
• Must be at least 18 years old 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, overtime, and weekend shifts as needed.
• Must be proficient in English.
• Mandatory travel for training; occasional travel may be required.
• Exposure to potentially lethal devices and dangerous chemicals is inherent.

Must meet and maintain physical requirements, including but not limited to the following:
- Squatting and bending to ensure agility.
- Repeatedly lifting and manipulating baggage, containers, and other objects weighing approximately 50 lbs.
- Walking up to 3 miles during a shift and standing for prolonged periods (up to 4 hours) of time.

At least one year of full‑time work experience in the security industry, aviation screening, or as an X‑ray technician.

High school diploma, GED, HiSET, or TASC high‑school equivalency certificate.

DHS offers competitive salaries and an attractive benefit package, including health, dental, vision, life, and long‑term care insurance; retirement plan;
Thrift Savings Plan; flexible spending account;
Employee Assistance Program; personal leave days; and paid federal holidays. Additional benefits may include flexible work schedules, telework, tuition reimbursement, transportation subsidies, uniform allowance, health and wellness programs, and fitness centers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, veteran status, or any other protected class.

TSA is an excepted service agency. Permanent TSA employees may be eligible to apply for positions in other federal agencies under the OPM‑DHS Interchange Agreement.