Relief Terminal Security Officer

Salary: $28.13 - $31.26 Hourly
Location : South Harbor, Tacoma, WA
Job Type: Relief/No Benefits
Job Number: 737
Department: Terminal Security Officers
Opening Date: 06/15/2026
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: TSO
Anticipated Starting Salary: Starting wage is $28.13/hour. Starting wage is 90% of base wage until completion of probation.


Job Summary

Starting wage is $28.13/hour. Starting wage is 90% of base wage until completion of probation.

A Relief Terminal Security Officer is an unarmed proprietary security officer who is charged with the safety, security and protection of a designated terminal area's personnel, stakeholders, and all properties in accordance with federal, state, local laws and regulations and terminal procedures. These are limited duration positions that are represented by a collective bargaining agreement. These are non-benefited positions with no guarantee as to the number of hours to be allocated.

Essential Functions

• Enforce all applicable port security-related federal, state and local laws and regulations. Follows all security, traffic and safety rules and regulations and engage in support activities to first responders.
• Execute Port of Tacoma security duties encompassing the physical security of port areas, terminal areas, waterways and adjacent port shoreline security, operational security, information security (protecting sensitive security information), supply-chain security and others. Monitor and control access into and out of terminal facilities during assigned hours.

• Dedicated exclusively to 24-hour terminals safety and security activities, responsible for patrol and surveillance of the terminal and adjacent waterways; manage the terminal entry control points and executes Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence (C3I) duties at the designated Terminal Control Center.

• Operates a shuttle van for transporting vessel officers, crew and visitors to/from vessel.
• Monitors vessel berthing at the terminal to ensure safe and secure docking. Execute or support the security screening of over-the-road trucks at the gate.
• Oversees public safety as well as environmental and maritime related safety regulations. Supports the maintenance of free flow of commerce and produce a safe, secure environment that promotes uninterrupted terminal operations.
• The TSO assists in the prevention and reporting of transportation security incidents, security breaches, and crime within the assigned terminal areas.
• Execute surveillance of operations terminals and cargo storage areas, and conduct physical inspections of terminal building, operational areas, waterways, etc.
• Enforce vehicle and pedestrian traffic control, correct and report traffic and safety hazards observed to the appropriate authorities. Initiate and submit daily reports covering port security and shift activities/assignments.
• Maintain communications with other security agencies.

Required Education and Experience
Minimum education required is graduation from high school or GED equivalent.

Previous job experience required is a minimum of two (2) years' experience working in a role that is customer service focused and at least one (1) year experience as a security officer in private industry, military, or applicable environment is preferred. Preference will be given to qualified candidates who are able to work all shifts.

Must maintain a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Requires a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record, to operate Port/NWSA vehicles, travel between work sites, attend off-site meetings and/or events, and perform essential job functions.

Additional Requirements


Must have the ability to learn laws, procedures, practices and techniques necessary to execute terminal security operations, as well as the laws, codes, statutes and regulations concerning port security activities and other areas as applicable. Individual must understand the techniques, practice and procedures necessary to have effective interaction with the general public and officers of other agencies and municipalities. Must be able to comprehend Port security duty manuals and terminal facilities security plan to which they are assigned, departmental organizations, Port of Tacoma administrative direction and culture, and all other applicable regulations and policies. Individual must possess the skills to use and care for radio communications equipment, as well as be able to execute security performance tasks as they relate to terminal operations and waterfront activities, including physical security, supply-chain security, waterways security, information security, and others. Must be skilled at the use and application of the National Incident Management System/Incident Command Structure, to include completion of IS100 and must assume collateral duties related to port safety, security, and policing activities and assume other duties, tasks, and responsibilities as assigned. Individual must have the ability to cope with situations firmly, courteously, tactfully and with respect of others' rights, as well as be able to analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine a proper course of action. Must be able to understand and carry out oral and written instructions, write and speak effectively, accurately, and comprehensibly and learn administrative procedures connected with terminal security work. Individual must have unquestionable integrity and be able to physically perform all assigned duties. Must be able to respond favorably to stress, sustain strong anger management skills and maintain a high degree of emotional stability. Individual must have the ability to serve as first responder in emergency situations and perform first aid procedures, including AED and CPR, as well as have upper body flexibility and full range of movement of upper extremities. Must be able to operate a personal computer and have effective technology skills.


This individual must demonstrate a caring customer service attitude, a strong commitment to operational excellence, and dedication to the organization's core values: Integrity & Transparency; Excellence; Adaptability; Stewardship; Teamwork & Partnerships; and Health & Safety. The Port seeks candidates who will embrace and model these values both internally and externally, and who understand what it means to carry out these values in their everyday work. We value individuals who also bring an impeccable work ethic, honesty, and integrity, and who consistently exhibit enthusiasm, energy, and a drive to succeed.
In accordance with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986, all persons offered employment must provide acceptable proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States. Proof will be required prior to employment.
Candidate must be able to successfully complete a background investigation. Candidate must also be able to obtain/maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), which is a program managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Information on this program can be viewed .
Unless altered by an applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement or by a written employment agreement signed by an employee and the Executive Director, the conditions of employment for this position are 'at-will', which means that either the Port or an employee can terminate the employment relationship at any time and for any reason not prohibited by law. No supervisor, manager, or director of the Port, other than Executive Director, has the authority to alter these employment conditions.
THE PORT OF TACOMA IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING A WORKPLACE THAT IS FREE FROM ILLEGAL DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT. WE ADHERE TO ALL APPLICABLE STATE AND FEDERAL ANTI-DISCRIMINATION LAWS.
This positions is not eligible for benefits.
01


Do you have a minimum of a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent?

• Yes
• No

02


Do you have or are you able to obtain a valid Washington State driver's license?

• Yes
• No

03


How many years of professional customer service experience do you have?

• 0 to less than 1 year
• 1 year to less than 2 years
• 2 years or more

04


How many years of experience do you have working in a security position?

• No Experience
• 0 to less than 1 year
• 1 year to less than 3 years
• 3 years to less than 5 years

Required Question