What Makes a Great TSO or SSA?
The Realistic Job Preview provides an objective, vivid portrait of working as TSOs and SSAs with employee testimonies about both the positive and the challenging aspects of the positions.
TSO Realistic Job Preview
Learn about the Transportation Security Officer (TSO) position and what it is like to work on the front line protecting our nation's transportation systems.
Job Description
TSOs 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/or anything that includes or impacts our transportation systems.
TSO Daily Responsibilities
- Operating various screening equipment and technology to identify dangerous objects in baggage, cargo and/or on passengers, and preventing those objects from being transported onto aircraft
- Performing searches and screening, which may include physical interaction with passengers (e.g., pat downs, property searches) conducting bag searches and lifting/carrying bags, bins and property weighing up to 50lbs.
- Controlling terminal entry and exit points
- Interacting with the public, giving directions and responding to inquiries
- Retaining and implementing knowledge of all applicable Standard Operating Procedures
SSA Daily Responsibilities
- Aid in the monitoring and flow of individuals through security check lane(s) to reduce wait times, adjusting passenger traffic as neccessary
- Move checked baggage to and from x-ray conveyer systems during screening process
- Ensure security check points are properly supplied with an appropriate supply of bins and organized to ensure a smooth flow of passenger traffic for screening operations
- Provide information and assistance to passengers divesting items into storage bins and moving and restocking bins as needed
- Complete logs, forms and other paperwork applicable to assigned duties
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned, to include visitor escort, supply requisition and stocking, telephone support and area cleaning
TSO Training
Post completion of initial training, TSOs are required to complete an immersive two-to-three week training program at a TSA Academy. TSA covers all travel and lodging expenses. While the TSA Academy provides the foundation for success, employees continue to receive training throughout their TSA career.
SSA Training
SSA training can include but is not limited to instructor-led training, Online Learning Center courses, On-the-Job Training (OJT) and shadowing opportunities.
Next Steps
Security Career Path
- SSA
- TSO
- LTSO
- STSO
- Training Instructor
- Canine Handler
Other Career Paths
- Law Enforcement – Federal Air Marshal
- Mission Support – Program Analyst
- HR Specialist
- Contracts Specialist
- And More
Eligibility
TSA accepts candidates of all different backgrounds and experience levels. Our basic requirements include:
- U.S. citizen or national
- 18 years of age or older
- High school diploma, GED or equivalent certificate
- Registered for Selective Service ( learn morelearn more )
- Able to pass a federal drug screening, medical evaluation and background investigation
- Available to work shifts at odd hours, occasional overtime and the ability to travel for training
TSO Hiring Process
The TSO hiring process takes about to 90 days on average. Review the process below to get a better idea of what to expect, and ensure you’re prepared every step of the way. Download this helpful Application Guide or watch this tutorial on How to Apply.
Hiring Steps
For example: To look for an open TSO role near you, type "TSO" into the search field and enter your location. Click on a job title to view the full description, and if it seems like the right fit, apply from there.
- You must create a profile on USAJOBS to apply for employment with the federal government.
- USAJOBS will direct you to login.gov (a secure federal portal) where you will be able to follow the steps to create an account. You'll need to reply to a verification email to sign in, and subsequently when you access the site, you'll be sent a one-time security code by text or phone call.
For TSO and SSA positions, a resume is not required. To skip submitting a resume, follow these steps:
Step 1: On the Select Resume page, choose Build Resume.
Step 2: The Resume Builder will appear. In the Resume Name Field, enter placeholder text such as "TSO application" or "Blank," then click Next.
Step 3: Under Add Work Experience, select the check box next to "I do not wish to provide work experience" and click Next. Do the same for "I do not wish to provide education." Then select the check box next to "References available upon request" and click Finish.
Step 4: Once on the Review Package screen, click the check box next to "I acknowledge that I have reviewed my resume and document(s)." Then click Save and Continue.
Step 5: Proceed through the remainder of the application.
- When applying on USAJOBS, be sure to complete the following:
- Contact information
- Demographic details and personal information
- Eligibility questionnaire
- Pay special attention to question 15-18 which are directly relevant to the TSO role
- On question 18, note that TSA policy requires verification of Selective Service registration for male applicants born after 12/31/1959
- All questions from 19-54 pertain to felonies committed in the last 10 years
REMEMBER:
- Review your information before submitting.
- Be sure to upload any additional documents that may be required.
- Veterans receive special consideration during the hiring process so be sure that you have uploaded your DD-214 to prove your eligibility.
At this point, candidates who meet minimum eligibility requirements will continue onto the following steps.
- If you meet the minimum qualifications, you may be invited to take a computer-based test to evaluate image interpretation aptitude.
- Candidate will receive a tentative offer and once accepted, sign additional release forms.
- Candidate will need to complete a panel structured interview to determine if they possess the competencies required for the TSO position.
- The medical evaluation includes but is not limited to a physical exam, color vision test, distance vision test, and hearing exam.
- During the federal drug test, your urine sample cannot test positive for illegal drugs, including marijuana - read more about the medical requirements here.
- Complete an electronic SF-86 National Security Questionnaire.
- Schedule and complete fingerprinting appointment.
- Complete a credit and criminal history record check. You can find more details here.
- After completing all required steps, candidate enters the "ready pool" and is eligible to receive a final job offer based on an airport's hiring needs.
SSA Hiring Process
The SSA role expedites the hiring process, allowing candidates to get started on the job more quickly. SSAs receive the same pay and benefits as TSOs and can pursue becoming a permanent TSO after they initially start employment. Please note the SSA position is a one-year temporary position with management options to extend two years.
Hiring Steps
For example: To look for an open TSO role near you, type "TSO" into the search field and enter your location. Click on a job title to view the full description, and if it seems like the right fit, apply from there.
- You must create a profile on USAJOBS to apply for employment with the federal government.
- USAJOBS will direct you to login.gov (a secure federal portal) where you will be able to follow the steps to create an account. You'll need to reply to a verification email to sign in, and subsequently when you access the site, you'll be sent a one-time security code by text or phone call.
For TSO and SSA positions, a resume is not required. To skip submitting a resume, follow these steps:
Step 1: On the Select Resume page, choose Build Resume.
Step 2: The Resume Builder will appear. In the Resume Name Field, enter placeholder text such as "TSO application" or "Blank," then click Next.
Step 3: Under Add Work Experience, select the check box next to "I do not wish to provide work experience" and click Next. Do the same for "I do not wish to provide education." Then select the check box next to "References available upon request" and click Finish.
Step 4: Once on the Review Package screen, click the check box next to "I acknowledge that I have reviewed my resume and document(s)." Then click Save and Continue.
Step 5: Proceed through the remainder of the application.
- When applying on USAJOBS, be sure to complete the following:
- Contact information
- Demographic details and personal information
- Eligibility questionnaire
- Pay special attention to question 15-18 which are directly relevant to the TSO role
- On question 18, note that TSA policy requires verification of Selective Service registration for male applicants born after 12/31/1959
- All questions from 19-54 pertain to felonies committed in the last 10 years
REMEMBER:
- Review your information before submitting.
- Be sure to upload any additional documents that may be required.
- Veterans receive special consideration during the hiring process so be sure that you have uploaded your DD-214 to prove your eligibility.
At this point, candidates who meet minimum eligibility requirements will continue onto the following steps.
- Candidate will receive a tentative offer and once accepted, sign additional release forms.
- Electronically complete required DHS forms.
- Schedule and complete fingerprinting appointment.
- After the above steps are complete, a pre-hire background check will be initiated.
- After completing all required steps, candidate enters the "ready pool" and is eligible to receive a final job offer commensurate with an airport's hiring needs.
- Candidate is strongly encouraged to complete all background forms prior to beginning work, to be prepared for post-hire background investigation.