Transportation Security Screener Career and Salary Profile

Transportation Security Screener Career and Salary Profile

Transportation security screeners provide security and protection of air travelers, as well as airports and aircraft. These security professionals are depended upon by the traveling public and airlines to prevent contraband and suspicious persons from boarding aircraft during tens of thousands of daily flights in the U.S. Working toward a transportation security screener career can begin by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice.

Transportation Security Screener Job Outlook

According to national data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2011, employment for compliance officers, including transportation security screeners, is projected to grow much faster than the average occupation through 2018. A growing job rate may not guarantee employment in the industry. Prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research regarding actual job growth rates, which vary according to location, education and experience.

Transportation Security Screener Job Duties

Working for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA), transportation security screeners perform a variety of job duties. Their daily tasks include screening passengers and baggage prior to domestic and international flights at airports all over the United States. Some transportation security screeners may spend the workday screening individuals by the hand-wanding method, while others monitor walk-through metal detecting equipment.

Ensuring safe baggage is another important aspect of the transportation security screener’s job. By operating and monitoring X-ray equipment, they identify dangerous and prohibited items in baggage, cargo and on passengers, and prevent these items or persons from entering the aircraft. They may also control airport entry and exit points to advance security measures.

Additional duties of transportation security screeners may include communicating with the public by issuing instructions for security lines, giving directions and responding to inquiries. Their primary duty, however, is to ensure compliance with TSA regulations.

Transportation security screeners typically work flexible shifts in airports. They may work 40-hour weeks, or overtime may be required. Weekend hours and travel may also be required.

Potential Salary for Transportation Security Screeners

According to a 2010 national survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, the average annual salary for transportation security screeners was $37,650, while the middle 50% earned between $34,090 and $39,990. The lowest 10% earned approximately $31,430, while those in the highest 10% bracket brought in around $44,850 per year. Because salary potential may vary depending on location, education and experience, prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research to determine actual earning potential.

Education and Training for Transportation Security Screeners

Transportation security screener positions typically require a minimum high school education. However, the specialized education that may advance your career possibilities in this field can be obtained through a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice program.

Candidates for transportation security screener positions must also complete required classroom training, on-the job training and certification testing. Prior to hiring, they must pass a screening and background investigation and be cleared for national security positions.

Preparing for a transportation security screener career can begin with earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Coursework typically includes introduction to criminal justice, criminal investigation, law enforcement systems and research methods in criminal justice.

Employers can be confident that individuals who have earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice are able to:

µ   Demonstrate best practices and recognize future trends in criminal investigation.

µ   Analyze crime using proven technology and techniques.

µ   Apply legal concepts including due process, search and seizure, and criminal liability.

µ   Develop a global perspective of the criminal justice system, from arrest to court proceedings.

µ   Leverage advanced skills and knowledge to succeed as a transportation security screener.

Some employers offer opportunities for continuing education. It may be possible to gain an entry-level position with a bachelor’s degree and use a tuition assistance program to further your education.

Becoming a Transportation Security Screener

If you are interested in law enforcement and the airline industry, and you possess good judgment, strong communication skills and integrity, you could be a candidate for an exciting career as a transportation security screener. Additional attributes that will serve you well in this position include a sharp focus and mental ability, strong customer service skills, dependability, and a calm approach to stressful situations. If this sounds like you, enrolling in a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice program can augment your existing skills and personal qualities, and prepare you to launch a transportation security screener career.