Securing a role with the U.s. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a pathway to contributing to national security and public safety. The first step in this rewarding career journey is navigating the application process through USAJOBS, the U.S. federal government’s official employment website. Creating a profile on USAJOBS is essential to apply for any federal government position, including those with the TSA. This guide simplifies the initial steps, focusing on how to apply for Transportation Security Officer (TSO) and Security Support Assistant (SSA) positions, even without a traditional resume.
To begin, you’ll need to establish a USAJOBS profile, which seamlessly integrates with login.gov, a secure federal portal. This integration ensures a safe and verified access point for your application. The process starts at USAJOBS, where you will be redirected to login.gov to create your account. Verification is a key security feature; you’ll need to respond to a verification email to initially sign in. Subsequently, each time you access the site, a one-time security code will be sent to you via text message or phone call, adding an extra layer of protection to your personal information and application.
For those applying for TSO and SSA positions, a significant advantage is that a resume is not mandatory. TSA streamlines the application process for these roles, understanding that experience can be highlighted through other application sections. If you are applying for a TSO or SSA position and wish to proceed without submitting a resume, follow these simple steps within the USAJOBS Resume Builder:
Step 1: When you reach the Select Resume page in the application process, choose the Build Resume option.
Step 2: The Resume Builder tool will then appear. In the Resume Name Field, you can enter a placeholder text. Something simple like “TSO application” or even “Blank” will suffice. After entering this placeholder, click Next to proceed.
Step 3: Under the Add Work Experience section, you will see a checkbox labeled “I do not wish to provide work experience.” Select this checkbox and click Next. Repeat this step for the Education section by selecting “I do not wish to provide education” and clicking Next. Finally, check the box next to “References available upon request” and click Finish.
Step 4: Once you arrive at the Review Package screen, carefully review the acknowledgement statement. Click the checkbox next to “I acknowledge that I have reviewed my resume and document(s).” Even though you’ve used a placeholder, this step is crucial for moving forward. Then, click Save and Continue.
Step 5: With the resume section handled, continue through the remaining sections of the USAJOBS application. These sections are vital for your U.S. Transportation Security Administration application and include:
- Contact Information: Ensure all your contact details are accurate and up-to-date so TSA can reach you regarding your application.
- Demographic Details and Personal Information: Complete this section truthfully and accurately.
- Eligibility Questionnaire: This is a critical part of the application. Pay close attention to questions 15-18, as these are directly related to the TSO role requirements and eligibility criteria.
- Question 18 specifically addresses Selective Service registration. Note that TSA policy mandates verification of Selective Service registration for male applicants born after December 31, 1959.
- Questions 19-54 concern felonies committed within the last 10 years. Answer these questions honestly and thoroughly.
Key Reminders for Your TSA Application:
- Review Everything: Before submitting your application, take the time to carefully review all the information you have provided. Accuracy is paramount.
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure you upload any additional documents that are explicitly requested in the job announcement.
- Veterans’ Preference: If you are a veteran, remember to upload your DD-214 form. Veterans receive special consideration in the federal hiring process, and providing your DD-214 is essential to prove your eligibility for these preferences.
Candidates who successfully meet the minimum eligibility requirements outlined in the job announcement will then advance to the subsequent stages of the TSA hiring process. Applying for a role with the U.S. Transportation Security Administration is a significant step towards a career in public service. By following these steps on USAJOBS, you can effectively navigate the initial application phase and move closer to joining the TSA team.
