Overview

Lead Transportation Security Officer

The security checkpoint at the Local Area airport facility plays a critical role in maintaining safety standards for local and regional departures. Aviation security in this region depends on the professionalism of every Lead Transportation Security Officer stationed at the screening lanes. This DHS position requires sharp attention to detail, physical readiness, and a genuine commitment to protecting the traveling public. Day-to-day responsibilities for a Lead Transportation Security Officer include screening passengers and baggage, resolving checkpoint alarms, documenting security incidents, and communicating professionally with travelers from all walks of life. Officers serving as Lead Transportation Security Officer are eligible for federal retirement under FERS, TSP matching contributions, and union representation through AFGE. This is a career-track position with meaningful benefits from day one.

Keeping Local Area, US 00000's security checkpoint running at peak efficiency is the daily responsibility of the Lead Lead Transportation Security Officer. The Lead TSO occupies a pivotal supervisory role — not yet management, but far more than a line officer. Leads coach, coordinate, and drive the operational performance of their shift team while maintaining TSA's security standards at every station. At Local Area's checkpoint, Lead TSOs are deployed across the most demanding positions: they resolve complex screening situations, mentor newly certified officers, manage lane assignments in real time, and serve as the primary point of contact between the TSO workforce and supervisory personnel during their shift. This role requires deep expertise in all screening disciplines and the ability to make calm, accurate decisions in high-pressure situations.
No prior security experience required — TSA provides all screening certifications.

Key Responsibilities

  • ✓ Directing daily checkpoint activities at Local Area and ensuring all TSO positions are properly staffed and covered
  • ✓ Coaching TSOs on screening technique, passenger interaction standards, and SOP compliance
  • ✓ Resolving complex alarm situations, passenger disputes, and escalated screening scenarios at the checkpoint
  • ✓ Conducting on-the-spot performance observations and providing immediate corrective or positive feedback
  • ✓ Serving as the acting shift supervisor in the absence of a Supervisory TSO (STSO)
  • ✓ Reviewing and approving checkpoint documentation including incident reports, PARIS logs, and shift notes
  • ✓ Coordinating with airline, airport authority, and law enforcement contacts during security incidents at Local Area
  • ✓ Ensuring screening equipment is operational and functional; reporting malfunctions to maintenance personnel
  • ✓ Mentoring new TSOs through probationary observation periods and on-the-job certification milestones

Requirements & Qualifications

  • • U.S. citizenship
  • • High school diploma or GED
  • • Minimum 18 months of experience as a certified Lead Transportation Security Officer
  • • Demonstrated proficiency across all TSO screening positions (ETD, X-ray, AIT, document checking)
  • • Successfully pass the Lead TSO assessment process and interview panel
  • • Active Secret-level security clearance or eligibility for clearance upgrade
  • • Clear of any disciplinary actions within the prior 12 months

Preferred Skills

  • • TSA Instructor certification or experience conducting formal TSO training
  • • Previous supervisory or team lead experience in security, military, or law enforcement

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

TSA career employees are covered by the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes a three-tiered system: a defined-benefit pension, Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching up to 5%.
Yes, all TSA positions are designated as testing-designated positions. Candidates must pass a pre-employment drug screening and are subject to random drug testing throughout their employment.
Yes, to maintain alertness and prevent fatigue, officers rotate through various screening stations (such as document checking, walk-through metal detectors, AIT, and baggage resolution) during their shifts.
Officers must be able to stand, walk, bend, and lift baggage items (up to 50–70 lbs depending on the role) regularly. Passing a medical evaluation and color vision test is also required.
Local operations are centered at the regional airport serving Local Area, US 00000. Onboarding, facility orientation, and primary duties are completed directly at this terminal.

Estimated Pay and Benefits

💰
$24.80 — $36.50 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 security screening positions.
  • ✓Must pass the TSA Computer-Based Test (CBT) covering X-ray interpretation.
  • ✓Comprehensive medical evaluation and drug screening required.
  • ✓Background investigation and Security Threat Assessment (STA) mandatory.
  • ✓Selective Service registration check (for males born after 1959).
  • ✓All onboarding training is fully paid and conducted by certified TSA instructors.

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