Are you interested in a career with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)? The TSA offers various roles crucial to national security, and applying for these positions is done through the federal government’s official job site, USAJOBS. This guide will walk you through the process, focusing on how to apply for Transportation Security Officer (TSO) and Security Screener Assessment (SSA) roles, even if you don’t have a resume ready.
Creating Your USAJOBS Profile
To begin your application for any federal government position, including those at the Transportation Security Administration, you’ll first need to create a profile on USAJOBS. This is a straightforward process:
- Visit USAJOBS: Go to the USAJOBS website (USAJOBS.gov).
- Account Creation: USAJOBS will redirect you to login.gov, a secure portal for federal services. Follow the prompts to create your login.gov account.
- Verification: You’ll need to verify your email address. Check your inbox for a verification email from login.gov and follow the instructions to confirm your account.
- Secure Sign-in: For subsequent logins, you will receive a one-time security code via text message or phone call to ensure the security of your account.
Applying for TSO/SSA Positions Without a Resume
For specific roles like Transportation Security Officer (TSO) and Security Screener Assessment (SSA) positions within the Transportation Security Administration, a resume is not always mandatory. USAJOBS allows you to bypass the resume submission step. Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Resume Skip Guide:
- Select “Build Resume”: When you reach the Select Resume page during the application process, choose the option to Build Resume.
- Placeholder Resume: The Resume Builder will appear. In the Resume Name Field, type a placeholder name such as “TSO application” or simply “Blank.” Click Next.
- Skip Work & Education: Under Add Work Experience and Add Education, check the boxes indicating “I do not wish to provide work experience” and “I do not wish to provide education,” respectively. Click Next after each. Then, check the box next to “References available upon request” and click Finish.
- Acknowledge and Save: On the Review Package screen, tick the checkbox next to “I acknowledge that I have reviewed my resume and document(s).” Then, click Save and Continue.
- Continue Application: Proceed through the remaining sections of the application as prompted.
Completing Your Application Details
While a resume might be optional for certain Transportation Security Administration roles, completing all other sections of the USAJOBS application thoroughly is crucial. Ensure you fill out the following sections accurately:
- Contact Information: Provide up-to-date and correct contact details.
- Demographic Details and Personal Information: Complete all fields related to demographics and personal information truthfully.
- Eligibility Questionnaire: Pay close attention to the eligibility questionnaire. Questions 15-18 are particularly relevant to the TSO role, covering key requirements.
- Selective Service Registration: Question 18 specifically addresses Selective Service registration. Note that TSA policy mandates verification of registration for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
- Felony History: Questions 19-54 pertain to any felonies committed within the last 10 years. Answer these questions honestly and carefully.
Key Reminders Before Submitting
Before you finalize and submit your application to the Transportation Security Administration through USAJOBS, remember these important points:
- Review Everything: Double-check all the information you have entered before submitting your application. Accuracy is key.
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure you upload any additional documents that are specifically requested in the job announcement.
- Veterans’ Preference: If you are a veteran, remember to upload your DD-214 form to ensure you receive the veterans’ preference for which you are eligible during the hiring process.
Candidates who meet the initial eligibility criteria will then move forward to the subsequent stages of the Transportation Security Administration hiring process. Applying for a role in federal service, particularly with an agency like the TSA, is a significant step towards contributing to national security. By following these steps on USAJOBS, you can navigate the application process effectively.
