How to Be Transportation Security Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 12, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The Transportation Security Specialist plays an essential role in protecting the public by ensuring that transportation systems are secure. By conducting security screenings and implementing security protocols, they help to deter potential threats and prevent terrorist attacks. In turn, this helps to provide a safe and secure environment for travelers, which leads to increased public confidence in the transportation system and a sense of safety when using it. Furthermore, the Transportation Security Specialist's efforts have the effect of increasing tourism, creating jobs, and stimulating the economy.

Steps How to Become

Earn a High School Diploma or GED. Most employers require Transportation Security Specialists to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Take Relevant Coursework. Applicants may benefit from taking courses in emergency planning, emergency management, and terrorism studies.
Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Most employers prefer applicants to have a bachelor's degree in emergency management, criminal justice, or a related field.
Obtain Job Experience. Applicants may need to obtain job experience in the field of emergency management or homeland security before being considered for a position as a Transportation Security Specialist.
Meet Physical Requirements. Applicants must meet physical requirements, such as being able to lift 50 pounds and stand for long periods of time.
Obtain TSA Certification. Transportation Security Specialists must obtain TSA certification and complete background and security checks.

In order to stay ahead and capable as a Transportation Security Specialist, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest policies, procedures, and technologies related to security. Keeping informed of new developments in areas such as aviation security, cargo security, transportation employee background checks, and passenger screening can help ensure that security professionals are able to respond quickly and effectively to new threats and other changes in the environment. Additionally, staying engaged with professional organizations and developing a network of colleagues can help security professionals stay informed of the latest industry trends and best practices. Finally, taking advantage of training and educational opportunities will allow security professionals to build their skills and stay capable in their field.

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Job Description

Monitor and inspect passengers, baggage, cargo and other items entering or leaving an airport or other transportation facility
Ensure that all security rules and regulations are followed
Operate x-ray machines and other equipment to detect prohibited items or suspicious activity
Identify suspicious behavior, objects or activities and take appropriate action
Respond to emergency situations and provide assistance to passengers, law enforcement officers, and security personnel
Complete reports on security incidents and investigations
Maintain knowledge of current transportation security policies and procedures
Educate travelers on security procedures
Perform background checks on prospective employees
Conduct random screenings of passengers and crew members

Skills and Competencies to Have

Expert knowledge of security protocols, procedures, and guidelines.
Ability to quickly analyze complex situations and make sound decisions.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Highly developed problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
Comprehensive knowledge of computer systems and applications.
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a high-pressure environment.
Physical stamina to stand for extended periods of time and lift heavy objects.
Ability to remain vigilant and attentive for long periods of time.
Proficiency in operating radio and communication equipment.

Highly effective transportation security specialists must possess a variety of skills in order to protect the safety and security of travelers. Chief among these skills is the ability to analyze potential threats and risks in a timely and efficient manner. This includes the ability to assess and identify suspicious objects, people, and behaviors, as well as being able to quickly respond to any potential threats.

effective communication skills are essential in order to accurately convey information to other team members, law enforcement, and other authorities. Finally, good decision-making skills are essential for transportation security specialists in order to ensure that the best possible decisions are made in the face of any given situation. If these skills are not present, the safety and security of travelers could be at risk, leading to serious consequences for both travelers and the transportation company.

Public Transportation Supervisor, Airline Passenger Transportation Agent, and Transportation Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the transportation security field?
What do you consider to be the most important tenets of effective transportation security?
How would you respond to a situation in which a passenger refuses to comply with TSA regulations?
What experience do you have working with airport/airline personnel?
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in transportation security?
What strategies do you use to ensure that safety protocols are followed at all times?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision in a high-pressure situation.
How do you ensure the accuracy of your work when monitoring luggage or performing additional security checks?
What measures do you take to ensure that safety protocols are adhered to in all areas of the airport?
Describe a time when you had to act quickly and decisively to prevent a potential security breach.

Common Tools in Industry

Risk Assessment Software. A software package used to assess the level of risk associated with a particular activity or event. (eg: Risk Watcher)
Access Control System. A system used to allow or deny entry to a protected area based on pre-defined criteria. (eg: Bio-metric ID System)
Surveillance Cameras. Cameras used to monitor public and private areas for security purposes. (eg: CCTV Cameras)
Security Alarm Systems. Systems used to alert authorities of any suspicious activity. (eg: Burglar Alarm)
Security Screening Devices. Devices used to detect weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items. (eg: X-Ray Machines)
Explosive Detection Systems. Systems used to detect the presence of explosives in luggage, shipments, and other areas. (eg: Explosive Trace Detection System)
Identity Verification Systems. Systems used to verify the identity of an individual based on biometric data or other credentials. (eg: Smart Card Verification System)

Professional Organizations to Know

Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA)
Air Transport Association of America (ATA)
National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
National Air Transportation Association (NATA)
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
Airport Council International (ACI)

We also have Freight/Cargo Shipping Clerk/Transportation Coordinator, Public Transportation Engineer, and Transportation Supervisor jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Airport Security. Practices and procedures that are used to protect passengers, staff, and aircraft from threats at airports.
Aviation Security. Measures taken to protect aircraft from malicious acts or criminal activity.
Anti-Terrorism. Strategies used to prevent or respond to terrorist attacks.
Risk Assessment. The process of identifying potential risks, assessing their severity, and developing strategies to mitigate them.
Emergency Response. Plans and procedures for responding to an emergency situation, such as a terrorist attack or natural disaster.
Surveillance. The observation of people or objects by means of monitoring devices or systems.
Access Control. Restricting access to an area or facility based on security measures.
Security Clearance. Authorization granted by the government to an individual allowing them access to classified information or restricted areas.
Disaster Management. The process of preparing for and managing the consequences of a natural disaster or other large-scale emergency situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Transportation Security Specialist?

A Transportation Security Specialist is an individual responsible for securing transportation systems, such as airports, highways, and waterways, from threats such as terrorism and illegal goods smuggling.

What qualifications are needed to become a Transportation Security Specialist?

To become a Transportation Security Specialist, individuals must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, be a U.S. citizen, pass a background check and credit check, pass a drug test, and possess a valid drivers license.

What types of duties do Transportation Security Specialists typically perform?

Transportation Security Specialists typically perform duties such as screening passengers and luggage for prohibited items, conducting pat-downs and vehicle searches, monitoring security cameras and alarms, and responding to security incidents.

What type of environment do Transportation Security Specialists work in?

Transportation Security Specialists typically work in airports, seaports, railway stations, and other transportation hubs. They may also work in office environments related to security planning.