Transportation security officers screen passengers, inspect baggage, and verify travel documents to ensure safe air travel. Requirements include a high school diploma, US citizenship, medical exam, and criminal background check. Law enforcement experience and good communication skills are helpful. Training takes 180 hours and ongoing education is required.
Transportation security officers work for the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure safe air travel. These individuals are responsible for screening passengers, testing and inspecting baggage, and verifying and confirming travel documents. To become a transportation security officer, you usually need a high school diploma or equivalent and pass a criminal background check and a medical exam.
You must be 18 years old to work as a transportation security officer and have successfully completed high school or equivalent educational level. Transportation security officers must also be US citizens and pass a medical exam. Those applying for a job with the TSA typically must provide all requested documentation with their application. Applicants typically interview a local official and may be asked to complete a second telephone interview.
A background in law enforcement can also be helpful for anyone looking to become a transportation security officer. Candidates with law enforcement training may be favored due to their training and experience in handling stressful situations and detecting suspicious behavior. Security officers must also be able to make independent decisions and quick judgments in stressful situations, if necessary.
A successful TSA security officer can also benefit from good communication skills and patience. Tired travelers are difficult to deal with, and security officers often have to deal with angry people with a cool head. Ensuring everyone follows safety regulations while maintaining a calm environment can be challenging.
Generally, job-specific training is provided to all candidates who are hired and successfully pass a drug screening and criminal background check. Security officers are trained to use airport security equipment, check baggage, and spot the first signs of threatening or aggressive behavior. Interns are also taught how to properly verify identification and how to spot fraudulent documents.
Training to become a transportation security officer usually requires 180 hours to complete. It usually includes both workplace and classroom sessions, followed by a certification exam. TSA employees may be required to complete additional training, drills and exercises, as well as complete continuing education courses and information sessions.
The TSA generally requires all of its security officers to complete an additional 22 hours of training each quarter. Quarterly training is an opportunity for all employees to learn about the latest screening technology and new procedures implemented for national security purposes. Officials may also be required to complete spontaneous procedural exercises and tests.
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