Overview

Transportation Security Specialist

Serving as a high-volume international gateway, the aviation hub in the Chicago area requires complex coordination and advanced screening technologies to secure millions of annual flights. Few careers combine public service, skill-based work, and immediate community impact the way this Transportation Security Specialist role does. TSA's airport security workforce is a critical component of the national transportation security framework. The Transportation Security Specialist role requires both technical skill and interpersonal composure. Officers must screen efficiently during peak hours, handle passenger concerns with professionalism, and apply sound judgment when security protocols are triggered. TSA offers competitive federal pay, comprehensive benefits through the Federal Employees Health Benefits program, and a clear career advancement path for high-performing officers. This Transportation Security Specialist position is an investment in your long-term federal career.

Federal aviation security extends far beyond the passenger checkpoint — and at Chicago, IL 60636, the Transportation Security Specialist operates at the intersection of field intelligence, regulatory compliance, and operational security assessments. This senior-level position requires the expertise to identify vulnerabilities across the entire airport security system and recommend corrective actions that protect the traveling public in IL and nationwide. Specialists at Chicago conduct covert testing of screening operations, evaluate checkpoint and access control performance against TSA's National Security Inspection standards, advise the Federal Security Director on systemic vulnerabilities, and lead complex security assessments. This is a role for seasoned aviation security professionals with deep regulatory knowledge, strong analytical capabilities, and a track record of independent, high-stakes operational judgment.
Work alongside law enforcement, DHS, and intelligence community partners.

Key Responsibilities

  • ✓ Conducting National Security Inspections (NSIs) and covert testing of TSA checkpoint and baggage screening operations at Chicago
  • ✓ Evaluating airport and air carrier compliance with TSA Security Directives, Emergency Amendments, and federal regulations
  • ✓ Preparing formal assessment reports documenting vulnerabilities, findings, and recommended corrective actions
  • ✓ Advising the Chicago Federal Security Director on systemic security gaps and strategic improvement priorities
  • ✓ Coordinating with TSA Inspection and Compliance teams on joint assessments and enforcement actions
  • ✓ Leading tabletop exercises and full-scale security drills with airport authority and law enforcement partners
  • ✓ Analyzing checkpoint performance data, inspection results, and incident trends to identify recurring weaknesses
  • ✓ Providing expert guidance to TSO supervisors on SOP interpretation, compliance expectations, and training needs
  • ✓ Representing TSA in interagency security working groups and stakeholder coordination forums at Chicago

Requirements & Qualifications

  • • U.S. citizenship
  • • Bachelor's degree in security, criminal justice, public administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
  • • Minimum five years of aviation security, TSA operations, or federal law enforcement experience
  • • Active or adjudicatable Top Secret security clearance
  • • Pass Security Threat Assessment and comprehensive background investigation
  • • Demonstrated expertise in TSA regulatory framework, SOPs, and National Security Inspection methodology
  • • Excellent analytical, report-writing, and stakeholder communication skills

Preferred Skills

  • • TSA Inspector, Transportation Security Inspector (TSI), or supervisory TSA experience
  • • Experience in DHS intelligence, TSA Office of Inspection, or OIG aviation security evaluations

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the TSA follows federal guidelines for Veteran Preference. Eligible veterans can receive preference points added to their passing assessment scores during the hiring process.
Full-time TSA employees accrue 13 days of paid annual leave and 13 days of paid sick leave per year from their start date. Annual leave accrual increases to 20 days per year after 3 years of service.
Most coordinator, specialist, and supervisory roles require an active or adjudicatable Secret security clearance. Senior specialist roles may require a Top Secret clearance.
Frontline TSOs perform direct passenger and baggage screening at checkpoint lanes. Coordinators are professional liaisons who coordinate security plans, audit compliance under 49 CFR Part 1542, and manage stakeholder relationships.
High-volume hubs require coordinators and officers to manage complex multi-terminal plans, integrate with international carrier systems, and maintain throughput during peak seasonal travel windows in the Chicago market.

Estimated Pay and Benefits

💰
$31.80 — $49.50 per hour
Estimated Hourly Pay Range
💼 Employment Benefits
  • ●
    Federal Health Insurance (FEHB)
    Medical, dental & vision for career employees
  • ●
    Federal Retirement (FERS + TSP)
    Pension + Thrift Savings Plan with gov't match
  • ●
    Paid Leave Accrual
    13 days annual leave/year starting from day one
  • ●
    Union Representation (AFGE)
    American Federation of Government Employees
📋 TSA Onboarding Vetting
  • ✓U.S. Citizenship is required for all federal security positions.
  • ✓Structured interview and multi-agency coordination or leadership assessment required.
  • ✓Comprehensive medical evaluation and drug screening required.
  • ✓Enhanced background investigation and active or adjudicatable Secret security clearance mandatory.
  • ✓Selective Service registration check (for males born after 1959).
  • ✓Prior federal, military, or specialized aviation security experience is highly valued.

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