Full-Time Airport Security Officer

ABOUT US: The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority

Established in 1978, the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) is a nonprofit corporation responsible for operating McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX). With 88-years of service to the East Tennessee region, McGhee Tyson Airport plays a vital role in the national air transportation network. Centrally located within a day's drive or a short flight from major cities, our airports are key gateways for travelers and businesses alike. If you're passionate about contributing to the continued success and growth of McGhee Tyson and Downtown Island Airports, we invite you to explore this opportunity further.

The Position:

Airport Security Officer responsibilities include ensuring the safe flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic, conducting routine inspections and screenings, and supporting airport and grounds surveillance operations. As one of the first points of contact for visitors and travelers, the Airport Security Officer plays a highly visible public-facing role by providing directions, answering general questions about the airport, and responding to concerns related to parking citations. This position requires prolonged standing and active movement throughout much of the shift, particularly during peak flight times and special events, to assist with traffic direction and public safety. On-the-job training is provided for inspection procedures. This is an outdoor position. Weekend work is expected, and overtime may be required.

Responsibilities:

• Directs vehicular and pedestrian traffic, patrols outside terminal levels on foot, and issues citations to vehicles illegally parked or in violation of other parking regulations. Initiates the first step in the impoundment of vehicles due to delinquent citations or other violations.
• Provides customer service to visitors, passengers, tenants, and employees alike. Enforces the rules and regulations of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
• Performs recurrent security checks, vehicle and vendor inspections, and safety inspections; issues permits, and conduct escorts.
• Works special events (airshow, dignitary visits, etc.), supports Public Safety Officers, as directed, and assists in any other task or duty assigned by the Chief of Public Safety or Shift Captain.
• Conducts Persons and Accessible Property Screening
• Performs related work, as required.

The Ideal Candidate:

Candidates should be observant, detail-oriented, and consistently aware of their surroundings, especially when directing traffic. The ideal candidate maintains a professional, calm demeanor in stressful or confrontational situations and demonstrates strong customer service skills. Clear and concise communication, both in person and over radio, is essential.


In this role, the selected candidate will develop a working knowledge of flight schedules and become familiar with regulations related to traffic, security, and safety as established by the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The candidate will also gain an understanding of City of Knoxville taxicab and limousine.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or equivalent, no prior experience is necessary for this position.
• The selected candidate will need to become licensed or certified in the American Heart Association Basic Life Support and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and Automated Defibrillators once in the role (training provided).

Salary and Compensation:

The hiring range for this position is $38,498.87 - $50,048.53 (final salary will depend on experience). MKAA offers a very competitive benefits package for this position, including medical/dental/vision benefits, disability/life insurance, vacation leave, sick leave, and a 401(a)-retirement program.


Deadline to Apply:


For best consideration, apply by Sunday, June 28, 2026. ***Position open until filled.

Please apply through this website (preferred), or mail resume to P.O. Box 15600 | Knoxville, TN 37901 | Attention: HR. Resumes/Applications must be received by the stated deadline, or postmarked by the deadline date, to be considered. No phone calls please.

Selection Process:

Applications (and additional documents, if applicable) will be reviewed to identify applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. Employment process includes a security background check and physical (if applicable), which includes drug testing.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a long-term basis.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority conducts random employee drug screening.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.