Airport security is vital and satisfying work, and jobs are always in demand. Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) is no exception. Like every other airport, we employ trained security workers, also known as Airport Security Screeners or Transportation Security Officers. These positions are important homeland security jobs, and those who take them on have the responsibility of ensuring safe skies for everyone who flies.
The Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001 authorized the establishment of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and gave it the authority to screen, hire and train the workers needed to keep airports secure and assess any potential threats.
If you have boarded an airliner since 9/11, you have encountered airport security personnel. Their primary duty is to prevent items from being transported that could cause harm or death. This requires screening and searching passengers and their baggage using equipment such as hand wands and X-ray machines.
What are the qualifications for an airport security job?
Airport security candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, able to lift and carry up to 70 lbs and be a United States citizen. Strong communication skills are required, which include speaking, reading, writing and listening — all in English.
Applicants will need to pass comprehensive pre-employment testing that includes a computerized test, drug and medical screening, a background/criminal check, fingerprinting, and a credit check. Since this is a security position, there will be several security clearance questions for applicants to answer.
How do qualified individuals apply?
Soon after 9/11, the TSA assumed sole responsibility for all hiring decisions on airport security. But in 2004, they began accepting applications through private companies under the Screening Partnership Program. Airports may now choose these qualified companies to provide airport security personnel. Sioux Falls Regional Airport is one of the airports that has opted for a private company.
Anyone from the Sioux Falls area that’s looking for career advancement through an airport security position may apply directly to BOS Security. BOS provides wages and benefits to the workers in these jobs, and the compensation is the same or better than those working under the TSA.
What does an airport security job entail?
The world of airport security is about protecting air travelers, airports and aircraft. It requires passenger and baggage screening that must be done with courtesy and professionalism even under the most trying and stressful circumstances. Personnel will need to adapt to changes in the screening processes and be willing to improve their performances through continuing education, additional training and constant personal development.
Security workers will screen individuals by using wands and monitoring walk-through metal detectors. There will be pat-down searches conducted on passengers daily. Security employees check everyone’s property using X-ray machines, looking for dangerous objects and keeping them from getting on the aircraft. Security personnel will also ensure that no unscreened individuals get through any of the airport entry points.
Ready To Apply?
Airport security can be a rewarding career and not just from a financial point of view. Imagine the feeling that comes from knowing you are helping people from all walks of life to be able to travel safely by air. Learn more about available airport security positions or begin the application process on our job board.