Master Transportation Security Officer- Behavior Detection Officer
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Positions
Series and Grade:
SV-1802- Pay Band F
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Performs, as assigned, pre-board security screening of persons, carry-on and checked baggage including, but not limited to, those described below. The Master Transportation Security Officer (Screener) (MTSO) relies upon seasoned experience and knowledge of the work and governing law, regulations, policy, and procedures, to independently complete the majority of work without need to refer issues to a superior for a decision. May be assigned to any airport, or other transportation terminal, that provides commercial service to the public and may, as assigned, serve as the'highest ranking TSO in charge of a particular shift(s). May serve as a member of the National Screening Force.
Serves as an MTSO, a Behavior Detection Officer for the Screening Passengers by Observational Techniques (SPOT) Program, a Screening Training Instructor, or any combination of the above, as assigned by the Federal Security Director or a manager with delegated authority and in conjunction with TSA HQ program managers. Note: When performing SPOT or Screening Training Instructor work, other screening functions performed may not require rotation through all facets (PAWBAGSICARGO) of work.
A MTSO demonstrates standards of excellence when performing as an MTSO and:
- remains available for temporary assignments to other airports due to staffing shortages or other special needs;
- conducts screening of passengers, baggage, and cargo (PAWBAGSICARGO), on a rotating basis, to maintain certification in all screening functions;
- ensures a smooth flow of passengers, baggage, and cargo through the screening checkpoints to facilitate the orderly and efficient processing of passengers; acts in a professional and courteous manner at all times and recognizes and specializes in serving the needs of individuals who may require special screening and assistance, to include, if so qualified, providing translation assistance to non-English speaking passengers;
- implements security screening procedures that are central to Transportation Security Administration objectives and that will serve to protect the traveling public by preventing any deadly or dangerous objects from being transported onto aircraft;
- immediately responds to breaches of security and emergency situations;
- relays professional but firm commands to individuals to control situations, including those that may become heated;
- operates various equipment such as walk-through and hand-held metal detectors, Explosive Detection System and Explosive Trace Detection system, and/or X-ray;
- as assigned, participates in the operation and testing of new security equipment and techniques;
- secures unauthorized weapons andlor potentially hazardous materials and devices and prevent entry to secure areas and aircraft; ensures the occupational health and safety guidelines are followed and any necessary decontamination procedures are completed in a timely manner;
- develops preliminary incident information for LEOs and superiors; assists LEOs with investigation; writes incident or other reports for superiors, LEOs, passengers, or other individuals;
- serves as mentor and coach to new Officer (Screener) personnel or to those who may require remedial assistance, as assigned; provides input to lead and/or supervisory personnel regarding performance of individuals mentored;
- serves as a team member inspecting security checkpoints and procedures at other airports; conducts specific aspects of inspections, as assigned.
- identifies, as part of all work performed, any issues that might reveal a weakness or vulnerable area of security screening; develops formal write-ups to recommend improvements to screening processes and procedures; provides recommendations to superiors for improvements to prevent future occurrences; and, assists management with inquiries and investigations initiated against regulated parties.
- as assigned, participates in joint law enforcement assignments;
The Behavior Detection Officer: Performs passive observation and engages in voluntary encounters with the public to determine whether individuals may be involved in suspected criminal and/or terrorist activities. Develops an understanding of the anticipated composition of travelers associated with flights, or other modes of transportation, the behaviors to be expected and assesses deviations from those behaviors. Assesses multiple individuals simultaneously and uses defined methods to detect unusual behavior. Uses established factors to determine whether elevated suspicion exists that might indicate an individual is involved in activities related to potential criminal or terrorist activities. Refers individuals for additional screening through, casual conversation, selectee screening and/or LEO intervention. Works closely with team members to assess individuals and gains more independence as experience in the work is gained. Documents identified behaviors as the basis for referrals. Prepares incident reports when law enforcement is involved. Ensures that superiors are aware of all ongoing activities. Performs these duties at assigned airport(s) or other transportation terminals that provide commercial service to the public.
- Utilizes computer hardware and software to create documents and report information in the appropriate format.
- Performs other duties, as assigned.
KSAs and Core Competencies:
- Attention to Detail: Is thorough when performing work; double-checks the accuracy of information to ensure high quality and precise work products.
- Customer Service: Balances the interests of a variety of clients; readily readjusts priorities to respond to pressing and changing client demands; achieves quality end products; is committed to continuous improvement of services.
- Decisiveness: Exercises good judgment by making sound and well-informed decisions; perceives the impact and implications of decisions; makes effective and timely decisions, even when data is limited or solutions produce unpleasant consequences; is proactive.
- Flexibility: Is open to change and new information; adapts behavior and work methods in response to new information, changing conditions, or unexpected obstacles. Adjusts rapidly to new situations warranting attention and resolution.
- Integrity/Honesty: Instills mutual trust and confidence; creates a culture that fosters high standards of ethics; behaves in a fair and ethical manner toward others and demonstrates a sense of corporate responsibility and commitment to public service.
- Interpersonal Skills: Considers and responds appropriately to the needs, feelings, and capabilities of different people in different situations; is tactful, compassionate and sensitive, and treats others with respect.
- Multi-Tasking: Ability to understand, decipher, analyze, and make decisions utilizing multiple and simultaneous sources of informational input.
- Oral Communication: Makes clear and convincing oral presentations to individuals or groups; listens effectively and, as needed, clarifies information; professionally conveys instructions and information to others; facilitates an open exchange of ideas and fosters atmosphere of open communication.
- Written Communication: Expresses facts and ideas in writing in a clear and concise manner.
- Self Management: Sets well-defined and realistic personal goals; displays a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment towards completing assignments in a timely manner; works with minimal supervision; is motivated to achieve, demonstrates responsible behavior.
- Security Equipment Knowledge: Knowledge in operation of security equipment (e.g., passenger X-ray technology, baggage X-ray technology, Explosive Trace Detection, passenger screening wands, magnetometer/walk through metal detector, two-way radios). As assigned, knowledge and skills necessary to perform level a1 maintenance and diagnose malfunctions.
- Security Screening Policies and Procedures: Knowledge of permitted and prohibited items, knowledge of current Standardized Operating Procedures (SOP) including security breach, knowledge of current performance protocols (e.g., hand wanding techniques and special search methods), knowledge of information on travel documents.
- Technology Application: Uses machines, tools and equipment effectively; uses computers and computer applications to prepare documents and communicate information in the appropriate format.
Visit the TSA Competency Table for more information on competency development.
Conditions of Employment:
- Appointment to this position is contingent upon a negative drug test result. Any individual tentatively selected for this position will be required to submit to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment.
- Meet and maintain medical requirements for screening work (including a medical examination and physical abilities assessment) including, but not limited to, the following (Note: Detailed information appears in the vacancy announcement for this position.)
- Efficiently and thoroughly manipulate and lift baggage, containers, and other objects subject to security processing;
- Ability to repeatedly lift and carry items weighing up to 70 pounds;
- Maintain physical agility that would allow them to squat, bend, and learn to inspect individuals and baggage/cargo;
- Maintain ability to walk up to two (2) miles during a shift and stand for prolonged periods of time;
- Maintain a measured threshold for sight:
- Distance vision correctable to 20130 or better in the best eye and 201100 or better in the worse eye
- Near vision correctable to 20140 or better binocular
- Maintain a measured threshold for hearing:
- Average hearing loss of 25 decibels (ANSI) at 500,1000,2000, and 3000 Hz in each ear
- Single reading of 45 decibels at 4000 and 6000 Hz in each ear
- Distinguish between different colors that will be a part of images displayed on automated screens:
- Color perception (e.g., red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, brown, black, white, gray). Note: Color filters for enhancing color discrimination are prohibited.
- Maintain eligibility for a security clearance.
- Maintains proficiency in all facets of assigned work sufficient to ensure recertification;
- Must be available to work various shifts and overtime, as needed;
- Must be proficient in English (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, listening); and,
- Must possess United States' Citizenship or be a U.S. National.
- Note: Exposure to potentially lethal devices and dangerous chemicals is inherent in this position.
- Note: This position is not covered by Law Enforcement Availability Pay or Law Enforcement Retirement.
Duty Location:
Nationwide
- Visit USAJOBS to see if this position is open and view other TSA positions.
