Lead Transportation Security Officer

Lead Transportation Security Officer Opportunities in Arcata Lead Transportation Security Officers—or LTSOs—help keep airport screening operations organized, consistent, and prepared for changing security needs. In this leadership role, you may guide Transportation Security Officers working at passenger checkpoints, checked-baggage areas, or other airport screening locations. This is a hands-on position. Lead officers continue supporting screening operations while helping the team follow TSA procedures, manage daily assignments, respond to security concerns, and keep travelers moving safely through the airport. Position Details Location: Arcata, CA Employer: Transportation Security Administration, Department of Homeland Security Pay: 26.35 – 38.33 Pay Band: SV-F Appointment Type: Fulltime Airport security operates beyond standard business hours. Depending on the vacancy, the schedule may include early mornings, evenings, overnight shifts, weekends, federal holidays, and overtime. Use the official announcement for the exact schedule and availability requirements. What You May Do Lead and support a team of Transportation Security Officers during daily screening operations Assign, distribute, and balance checkpoint or baggage-screening duties Help officers follow TSA security procedures, directives, and operational standards Train and coach team members while monitoring the quality and progress of their work Support passenger, carry-on baggage, checked baggage, and cargo screening operations Respond to security breaches, alarms, operational disruptions, and emergency situations Assist with incident reviews and prepare clear, accurate reports Communicate staffing, equipment, and operational needs to supervisors or managers Experience and Education Requirements Applicants generally must have a high school diploma or recognized equivalency credential, or at least one year of qualifying full-time experience in security work, aviation screening, or X-ray technician work. Candidates must also possess at least one year of specialized experience related to transportation security screening. Relevant experience may include screening passengers or baggage, operating X-ray or electronic detection equipment, conducting searches, identifying prohibited or dangerous items, and protecting travelers, airports, or aircraft. Some Lead TSO announcements are limited to current TSA employees. Review the “Who May Apply” section of the official vacancy before beginning an application. General Conditions of Employment Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national Must be at least 18 years old when applying Must successfully complete the required background investigation Must pass pre-employment drug screening and remain subject to applicable testing requirements Must meet TSA medical, vision, hearing, color-perception, and physical standards Must be available for varying shifts and overtime when required Must remain available for duty during certain emergencies because this may be designated an Emergency Essential position Physical Requirements Lead Transportation Security Officers remain actively involved in screening work. Candidates must be capable of repeatedly lifting and carrying baggage or other items weighing up to 50 pounds, standing for extended periods, walking up to two miles during a shift, and bending, squatting, leaning, and reaching while inspecting people or property. Applicants must also meet the vision, hearing, and color-perception standards associated with operating airport security-screening equipment. Federal Benefits Eligible employees may have access to federal benefits that include health, dental, vision, life, and long-term-care insurance; paid leave and federal holidays; a federal retirement program; the Thrift Savings Plan; flexible spending accounts; employee-assistance resources; and training or professional-development opportunities. Additional benefits may include a uniform allowance, transportation assistance, tuition support, wellness programs, or premium pay. Eligibility depends on the appointment type, work schedule, duty location, and terms of the official vacancy. How to Apply Review the complete official vacancy before applying. Confirm the airport location, salary, eligibility group, required experience, documents, and closing date. Applications must be submitted through the official application method provided in the active announcement. TSA does not charge an application fee. Prepare for the TSA Leadership Hiring Process Our independent preparation program helps candidates understand the hiring stages, organize their experience, prepare for employment assessments, strengthen interview responses, and approach the process with greater confidence. Step-by-step hiring-process guidance Leadership assessment practice Resume and application support Interview-preparation resources Job-search tools and candidate support Start preparing for Lead Transportation Security Officer opportunities in Arcata. CD06112026 Airport Security Careers