Launch Your Career in National Security: Transportation Security Officer in New Bern
Are you looking for a career that combines public service with high-stakes national security? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is seeking motivated individuals to serve as Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) at the Coastal Carolina Regional Airport in New Bern, North Carolina. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve your country, ensure the safety of the traveling public, and build a professional foundation within the Department of Homeland Security.
Job Responsibilities
As a TSO, you are not just scanning bags; you are the eyes and ears of aviation security. Your daily duties will include:
- Screening Operations: Operating advanced X-ray and imaging technology to detect dangerous items.
- Physical Screening: Performing pat-downs and bag searches in compliance with established protocols.
- Public Engagement: Interacting with passengers, providing guidance, and responding to inquiries while maintaining a professional demeanor.
- Crisis Management: Maintaining constant focus in a high-pressure, noisy environment to identify potential threats.
- Continuous Improvement: Staying updated on evolving security procedures and risk-based screening protocols.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Age: Minimum 18 years old.
- Physical Fitness: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for 4 hours at a time, and maintain agility.
- Background: Must successfully pass a criminal history check, credit check, and a thorough background investigation.
- Testing: Willingness to undergo pre-employment and random post-employment drug and alcohol screenings.
Eligibility Comparison
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Education | High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent |
| Residency | Resided in U.S. for 3 of the last 5 years |
| Schedule | Shift-work required (includes nights/weekends) |
| Training | Mandatory 3–6 weeks of paid travel training |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $56,844 per year, depending on experience and locality adjustments. This includes locality pay tailored to the North Carolina region, ensuring your compensation reflects the local cost of living.
Benefits
Working for the federal government comes with a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- A generous retirement plan through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid leave, including federal holidays and annual leave.
- Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional training.
- Uniform allowance and transportation subsidies.
Application Tips
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the closing date to apply, as the announcement may close early if a sufficient number of applications are received.
- Resume Check: Keep your resume strictly under two pages; longer resumes are automatically rejected by the system.
- Monitor Email: Check your spam and junk folders regularly for interview and testing invitations.
- Be Honest: Any overstatement of skills or failure to report background information can lead to immediate disqualification.
Serving as a Transportation Security Officer is a rewarding, challenging, and vital role. If you are ready to contribute to the nation’s safety while securing a stable federal career, we encourage you to apply for this opening in New Bern today.
Why This Transportation Security Officer Job Matters
Protect the nation and ensure the freedom of movement for travelers at Coastal Carolina Regional Airport by joining the TSA team.
Transportation Security Officer Job Overview
As a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) with the Transportation Security Administration, you will be on the front lines of national security. You will play a vital role in securing transportation systems, protecting passengers, and preventing the transit of prohibited items. This position is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, calm under pressure, and dedicated to public service.
Requirements for Transportation Security Officer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
- Must have resided in the U.S. for three of the last five years.
- Must pass a comprehensive background investigation, including criminal and credit checks.
- Must undergo a medical evaluation, vision/hearing exam, and drug/alcohol screening.
- Must be available for shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Must be proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking, and comprehending).
- Must demonstrate the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Must maintain physical agility for bending, squatting, and standing for up to 4 hours.
Preferred Qualifications for Transportation Security Officer
- Previous professional experience in security industries.
- Prior experience in aviation screening or high-volume transport environments.
- Experience as an X-ray technician or similar technical screening role.
- Demonstrated ability to perform under high-pressure, fast-paced conditions.
- Strong interpersonal skills to manage diverse public interactions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance
- ✓Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Tuition reimbursement opportunities
- ✓Transportation subsidies
- ✓Uniform allowance
- ✓Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
💡 How to Apply Transportation Security Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Transportation Security Officer Job
- Review the full announcement and ensure you meet all criteria.
- Complete the online application and assessment on the official hiring portal.
- Upload necessary documentation including your resume (maximum 2 pages).
- Await an invitation via email to schedule a proctored assessment.
- Complete the structured interview and medical evaluation.
- Submit to a background investigation and suitability determination.
💡 General Tips
- Monitor your spam folder closely for communications from the OPM staffing office.
- Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Prepare for the physical requirements, as you will need to stand for extended periods.
- Be honest on your application; background checks are rigorous.
- Complete your assessment within the 21-day window after receiving instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work part-time?
Yes, part-time shifts are available and generally range from 16 to 32 hours per week.
What is the training requirement?
New hires must attend mandatory training, which requires 3 to 6 weeks of travel away from the duty location.
Is this a law enforcement position?
No, the TSO role is not classified as law enforcement and is not eligible for Law Enforcement Retirement benefits.
Do I need prior security experience?
*A: While previous experience is beneficial, it is not strictly required if you meet the educational benchmarks.*
What is the training process like?
*A: Training is comprehensive and involves both classroom work and hands-on experience, often requiring travel to an off-site training facility.*
Job from Transportation Security Administration
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a mission-driven component of the Department of Homeland Security. Our mandate is simple but profound: to protect the nation's transportation systems. By screening passengers and luggage at airports across the country, our TSOs serve as the first line of defense against threats, ensuring that commerce and citizens can move freely and securely.