Become a Lead Transportation Security Officer: A Guide to Working with the TSA in North Dakota
Are you looking to take your security career to the next level? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to serve as a Lead Transportation Security Officer (LTSO) at the Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport (DIK) in Dickinson, North Dakota. This is more than just a job; it is a vital mission-driven role that helps secure our nation's transportation systems.
Job Responsibilities
As an LTSO, your primary objective is to lead and mentor a team of Transportation Security Officers. You will manage the flow of traffic at security checkpoints, ensure that all screening procedures follow federal mandates, and act as a point of escalation for complex security situations.
Key responsibilities include:
- Coordinating daily screening workloads for TSOs and trainees.
- Assisting in the investigation of security breaches and preparing detailed incident reports.
- Mentoring junior staff to ensure high-performance standards.
- Communicating regularly with supervisors regarding resource needs and personnel performance.
Comparison: TSO vs. Lead TSO
| Feature | Transportation Security Officer (TSO) | Lead Transportation Security Officer (LTSO) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Work | Individual Screening | Team Oversight & Screening |
| Mentorship | Learning | Leading & Training |
| Decision Making | Routine Compliance | Operational Balancing & Incident Response |
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, you must be a U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age. Applicants must also pass a thorough background check, drug screening, and meet specific physical and medical standards, including vision and hearing benchmarks and the ability to lift 50 pounds.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $61,722 to $80,243. This pay scale is part of the TSA's commitment to providing fair and sustainable compensation for those protecting our nation.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, the federal government offers an extensive benefits package:
- Full health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Paid federal holidays and sick leave.
- Potential tuition reimbursement programs.
- Access to professional training and career development opportunities.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Clearly illustrate your leadership and security experience. Avoid copy-pasting the job description.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure you have your SF-50 if you are a federal employee.
- Follow Deadlines: The system will not accept late applications; submit well before the cutoff.
Serving as a Lead Transportation Security Officer is a rewarding opportunity to protect your community and country. With an attractive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to lead a dedicated team, this role at Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport is an excellent choice for experienced security professionals.
Why This Lead Transportation Security Officer Job Matters
Take the lead in national security. Join the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as a Lead Transportation Security Officer at the Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport and play a pivotal role in safeguarding our skies.
Lead Transportation Security Officer Job Overview
As a Lead Transportation Security Officer (LTSO) with the Transportation Security Administration, you will serve on the front lines of national security at the Theodore Roosevelt Regional Airport. In this vital role, you are responsible for overseeing screening operations, managing a team of Transportation Security Officers, and ensuring that all security protocols are executed with precision and professionalism. You will balance operational efficiency with rigorous safety standards to protect the traveling public and our nation’s transportation infrastructure.
Requirements for Lead Transportation Security Officer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must successfully complete a background investigation.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and maintain eligibility for random drug/alcohol testing.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must be able to work various shifts and overtime as required.
- Must meet stringent medical, physical, and visual/hearing standards as defined by the agency.
- Must be capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.
- Must be willing to perform pat-down searches as part of screening protocols.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Transportation Security Officer
- Prior experience in aviation security, x-ray operations, or federal law enforcement.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and train staff in a high-pressure environment.
- Proven track record of maintaining regulatory compliance.
- Experience in identifying and mitigating security threats in a transportation setting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Retirement plan with Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Tuition reimbursement opportunities
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Employee Assistance Program
💡 How to Apply Lead Transportation Security Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Transportation Security Officer Job
- Create or log into your account on the official federal jobs portal.
- Upload a detailed resume, limiting it to two pages.
- Include specific start/end dates and hours worked per week for all previous positions.
- Submit all required supporting documentation, such as your SF-50 if currently or previously employed by the federal government.
- Complete the online assessment and questionnaire.
- Monitor your application status regularly through your account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in security screening; do not simply copy language from the job announcement.
- Use the resume builder tool to ensure all required fields for federal employment are captured.
- Double-check that you have included your performance level if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Be prepared to complete the Work Personality Index (WPI) promptly once invited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an LTSO do?
A Lead Transportation Security Officer provides frontline leadership to screening teams, monitors workflow, conducts incident reporting, and ensures that security screening procedures are strictly followed.
Are there physical requirements for this role?
Yes. This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds, stand for prolonged periods, perform pat-downs, and meet specific hearing and vision thresholds.
Is this an emergency essential position?
Yes, this role is designated as Emergency Essential, meaning you must remain in a duty status if an emergency arises.
What is the physical agility requirement?
You must be able to perform standard security tasks, which include lifting heavy luggage, bending, squatting, and standing for multiple hours per shift.
Can I telework?
Due to the nature of airport screening, this position requires on-site, in-person attendance.
Job from Transportation Security Administration
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is dedicated to preventing terrorism and enhancing security. Within DHS, the TSA serves as the primary entity responsible for screening passengers and cargo at our nation's airports. Joining the TSA means joining a community of professionals committed to the safety of the American public.