Transportation Security Specialist-Explosives

Job Summary

The Transportation Security Specialist - Explosives (TSS-E) serves as a journey‑level subject matter expert for the Federal Security Director (FSD) at designated airport(s) on all issues involving threats to the traveling public from explosives and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). This position is located at Reno/Tahoe International Airport (RNO).

• Serving as a key component of a multi‑layered security approach.
• Applying experience and technical knowledge of explosives to assess threats.
• Educating the screening workforce in the detection of threats.
• Supporting explosive vulnerability assessments in all modes of transportation.
• Responding to and assessing all unresolved checkpoint and checked baggage alarms involving possible explosives, IED components, or actual IEDs, rendering a final decision on alarm resolution.
• Assessing the interrelationships between initiators, power supplies, and chemicals, determining if devices are improvised explosives, commercial explosives, or mixed explosives (fuel mixtures).
• Deploying in support of risk mitigation efforts to deter, detect, and prevent the introduction of IEDs, IED components, or other deadly or dangerous items into the airport environment.
• Participating with evaluation teams in conducting covert drills to determine effectiveness of the training programs, recommending individuals for remediation, and identifying potential security vulnerabilities.
• Mentoring and training the front line screening workforce to increase their operational knowledge of explosives and IED components.

This position is designated as an Emergency Essential (EE) position. Employees are required to remain on duty if an emergency arises.

• U.S. Citizenship or U.S. National.
• Minimum age 18 at the time of application.
• Successful completion of a favorable Background Investigation.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level security clearance.
• Selective Service registration.
• Pass pre‑employment Drug Screening; subject to post‑employment random drug and alcohol testing.
• Meet and maintain medical requirements in accordance with the TSA Medical Guidelines for Transportation Security Specialist – Explosives.
• Availability to work various shifts and overtime as needed.
• Willingness to undertake extensive travel, including overnight travel, as required.

To qualify for the SV‑H Pay Band (equivalent to GS‑12) you must have:

• Completed formal accredited IED/bomb disposal coursework resulting in a graduation certificate from at least one accredited bomb disposal school (Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (NAVSCOLEOD) or FBI's Hazardous Devices School (HDS)).
• One year of specialized experience at the SV‑G or GS‑11 level in federal service or equivalent experience in the private sector as a Bomb Appraisal Officer, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician, Bomb Technician, or similar position.
• Specialized experience should include at least:
  • Participation in bomb program management as a bomb squad team member.
  • Responding to alarms involving possible explosives, IED components, or actual IEDs.
  • Assessing interrelationship between initiators, power supplies, switches, and chemicals to determine device type.

Specialized experience acquired within the last five years immediately preceding application is a quality ranking factor, granting additional credit. Credit is based on a 40‑hour workweek; part‑time experience is credited on a prorated basis. Volunteer experience (National Service programs such as Peace Corps, Ameri Corps) may also be credited.

TSA offers competitive salaries and an attractive benefits 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; paid federal holidays; and additional benefits such as flexible work schedules, telework, tuition reimbursement, transportation subsidies, uniform allowance, and wellness programs. Disabled veteran leave is available to eligible veterans.