To work as a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screener in the United States (US), you must apply, meet certain requirements, pass pre-employment testing, and be able to perform the tasks required to keep your job. These requirements include being 18 years old at the time of application and being a US citizen birth or proof of nationalization. You must be able to communicate effectively in English and have a high school diploma, GED equivalent, or one or more years of experience in a related security position. Any applicant interested in becoming a TSA screener is subjected to a thorough background investigation, which includes a credit check.
TSA screeners work at security checkpoints and baggage handling in airports to ensure that no dangerous or contraband items make it onto planes. To work as a TSA screener, you must be able to deal with high-pressure situations and provide excellent customer service to people who are frustrated, tired, and angry with security procedures. A background in security techniques, particularly those involving the use of X-ray equipment, as well as customer service, can assist you in obtaining a job as a TSA screener.
To begin the application process to become a TSA screener, either contact your local TSA office or apply for the position on the TSA website. You might be asked to show proof of US citizenship, as well as other documents like a high school diploma or GED certificate. You must also meet certain physical requirements, including the ability to lift up to 70 pounds (over 31 kg) on a regular basis, stand for up to four hours without stopping, and walk up to two miles (over three kilometers) in a single shift. There are also some medical requirements, such as visual and hearing ability, joint mobility, and having a low blood pressure.
After you’ve applied, you’ll be subjected to a thorough background and credit check. You may be ineligible to work as a TSA screener if you have defaulted on $7,500 or more in debt, except in certain bankruptcy situations, if you owe delinquent state or federal taxes, or if you are behind on child support. Because bribes may be offered to a TSA screener in exchange for allowing illegal or dangerous materials to pass through a security checkpoint, applicants must not appear to be a viable candidate for accepting such bribes. As a result, you must have good financial standing and pass a personal and criminal background check before receiving the necessary security clearance to work as a TSA screener.
If you meet all of these requirements, you may be offered the chance to complete the training required to become a TSA screener. You must first complete 56-72 hours of classroom or computer-based training, followed 112-128 hours of field training. It’s also possible that you’ll be required to travel for up to two weeks in order to complete this training. Once you’ve completed your training and received your certification, you’ll be expected to attend daily or weekly security briefings and pass random drug tests in order to keep your job.