Lead Transportation Security Officer: A Vital Role in Aviation Safety
Are you looking to advance your career in federal law enforcement and aviation security? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is hiring a Lead Transportation Security Officer (LTSO) at the Ralph Wien Memorial Airport in Kotzebue, Alaska. This is more than just a job; it is a critical mission to ensure the safety and security of our nation's transit systems.
About the Transportation Security Administration
The TSA is a key component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Our mission is to protect the nation's transportation systems—including airports, public transit, and highways—to ensure freedom of movement for both people and commerce. Joining the TSA means becoming part of a dedicated workforce committed to preventing terrorism and maintaining the integrity of American infrastructure.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Transportation Security Officer, you serve as the backbone of the screening operation. Your daily duties will include:
- Team Leadership: Supervising at least three TSOs, balancing workloads, and assigning tasks based on operational priorities.
- Security Compliance: Ensuring all screening procedures strictly adhere to TSA mandates and objectives.
- Incident Response: Responding to security breaches, managing emergencies, and drafting detailed incident reports.
- Training & Mentorship: Coaching team members on new procedures and representing the team to senior management.
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this role, you must meet stringent federal standards. You must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and capable of passing a comprehensive background check and medical evaluation. Physical fitness is a must, as the role involves lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for long shifts, and maintaining agility.
Comparison Table: Qualifications and Skills
| Feature | Requirement / Expectation |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be U.S. Citizen or National |
| Physicality | Lift 50 lbs; Stand 3-4 hours; Color perception |
| Background | Must pass suitability and security check |
| Experience | Equivalent to SV-D or higher desired |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $69,789 to $90,731 annually. Furthermore, this specific location benefits from a 3% Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA), a 25% retention incentive, and a potential stay-in-place incentive of up to $15,000 per year.
Beyond compensation, TSA employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
- Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- Generous Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
- Ongoing professional training and development
Application Tips
Your resume is the most important part of your application. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you include:
- Dates (Month/Year) for every position.
- Full-time vs. part-time status (with average weekly hours).
- Specific, detailed descriptions of your security experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the Work Personality Index (WPI) assessment? A: It is a mandatory competency-based assessment. You will receive an invitation after the job closes and must complete it within 14 days.
Q: Is this an emergency-essential position? A: Yes, you are required to remain in a duty status during emergencies.
Joining the TSA as a Lead Transportation Security Officer offers a unique opportunity to build a stable federal career in a high-impact environment. If you have the leadership skills and the dedication to protect the traveling public, we encourage you to submit your application by the closing date.
Why This Lead Transportation Security Officer Job Matters
Step into a leadership role with the TSA at the Ralph Wien Memorial Airport and play a critical part in safeguarding America's transportation infrastructure.
Lead Transportation Security Officer Job Overview
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is seeking a motivated Lead Transportation Security Officer (LTSO) to join our team in Kotzebue, Alaska. This role is essential to maintaining high-security standards at the Ralph Wien Memorial Airport. As a lead officer, you will oversee screening operations, guide a team of Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), and ensure that all security protocols are executed effectively to protect the traveling public and vital transportation systems.
Requirements for Lead Transportation Security Officer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Ability to complete and pass a thorough background investigation.
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening and be subject to ongoing random drug/alcohol testing.
- Must pass a medical examination and physical abilities assessment (including lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for prolonged periods).
- Registration with the Selective Service (if applicable).
- Meet specific vision and hearing standards.
- Ability to distinguish specific colors for screening equipment.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Transportation Security Officer
- At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the SV-D pay band or higher.
- Proven experience in frontline security protection, aviation screening, or operating electronic detection and imaging equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and balance workloads for team members.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive salary range with additional 3% Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA).
- âś“25% retention incentive.
- âś“Up to $15,000 per year in stay-in-place incentives.
- âś“Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- âś“Federal Retirement plan including Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with agency contributions.
- âś“Paid federal holidays and accrued personal leave.
- âś“Employee Assistance Program and wellness initiatives.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Lead Transportation Security Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Transportation Security Officer Job
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your security experience and includes start/end dates and hours worked.
- Review and submit all required documentation, including SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Monitor your email for an invitation to complete the L-TAB: Work Personality Index.
- Verify the status of your application via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and provides a detailed narrative of your duties.
- Do not simply copy and paste the job announcement into your resume; provide concrete examples of your work.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents (like your most recent non-award SF-50) are attached before submitting.
- Set aside time to complete the Work Personality Index assessment within 14 days of receipt to avoid disqualification.
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary responsibility of a Lead Transportation Security Officer?
An LTSO is responsible for overseeing a team of at least three TSOs, coordinating workflow, providing performance feedback, and ensuring that all security screening procedures are followed precisely.
Is this position eligible for relocation benefits?
Yes, this role currently offers a significant stay-in-place incentive of up to $15,000 per year in addition to other pay incentives.
What medical requirements must I meet?
Candidates must meet specific standards for vision (corrected to 20/30 or better) and hearing, as well as physical capabilities, including the ability to lift 50 pounds and stand for 3-4 hours at a time.