Airport Security Personnel

Experience is optional to work as a security screener. Still, those with prior work experience will increase their chances of landing a job, getting promoted, and earning higher pay. You can gain experience by participating in security-related internships and jobs. Positions as air marshals or directors or security are not entry-level positions. If you are interested in one of these jobs, you will need previous experience with the police, U.S. military, or other positions in which you have gained skills in protecting the lives of others.

All airport security personnel have demanding jobs that require a calm demeanor when under pressure. Screeners often stand for hours and lift passengers' luggage onto the screening belt. Their eyesight must be strong enough to detect even the smallest of possible threats displayed on a computer screen. They must be able to lift at least 70 pounds, walk up to two miles during one shift, and stand anywhere from one to four hours at a time. To ensure that individuals can handle these demands, potential screeners face many physical and vision tests to ensure they are up to the job. All screeners must be U.S. citizens or nationals and pass tests evaluating mental abilities (English reading, writing, and speaking), visual observation (including color perception), hearing, and manual dexterity. Similarly, air marshals and directors of security must pass vision and hearing tests and be in good physical shape to face and dominate potential attackers.