A. The Application Process

1.   How can I view all positions that are available at TSA?

The most up-to-date information on available positions can be found at www.tsa.dot.gov. At the web site, click on "Working with TSA" on the left-hand side of the screen. You should check back regularly for information on positions and locations with openings. If you do not have access to the Internet, you may contact a Customer Service Representative toll-free at 888-328-6172 who can provide this information to you.

2.   What questions are included in the application?

The application contains questions regarding airport screening experience, training and education. For positions with supervisory duties, those applications will include questions regarding supervisory, management and leadership experience, training and education.

3.   How do I apply?

Your most efficient, effective and fastest way to apply is online via a computer. If you are unable to complete the application online, you may complete it by calling 877-631-5627 (877-631-JOBS). If you are applying by telephone, please do not use a cellular phone. We do encourage applicants to apply online if possible, however, since this is a faster and easier way to apply. Public access to the Internet is available through various local sources such as your local libraries, schools, state employment offices, Internet cafes, and other locations. Once you complete the questionnaire, you will receive an immediate notification saying whether you meet the basic requirements. If you need assistance because of a disability, please contact our Customer Service Center at 1-888-328-6172 (the TTY line is 1-877-343-9287).

4.   Why aren't paper applications allowed?

To meet rapid timelines for federalization of airport security screening staff set forth by Congress, we are seeking to process applications in the most rapid manner possible, and therefore we are accepting applications for most positions online or through our telephone system.

5.   Does the online application have preference over the phone application?

No. However, the fastest and most efficient way to apply is online. Please visit your local library, school, state employment office, or an Internet café for easy access to the online application.

6.   Can I apply over the phone before I can apply via the Internet?

No. When a new position is posted for a specific location, applications are accepted both online and over the phone.

7.   I'm confused about a specific question on the questionnaire. What do I do?

Please answer all questions to the best of your ability. We are unable to assist you in answering questions.

8.   I was in the middle of completing my application, and it was interrupted. What do I do?

You may re-enter the system and will need to re-enter your Social Security Number. You will need to begin the questionnaire from the beginning.

9.   How long will it take me to apply?

We anticipate that it will take applicants approximately 30 minutes to complete the application.

10.   How long will the online application be available?

The application will remain open for as long as it takes to identify the appropriate number of qualified applicants.

11.   How long is an application submitted to the TSA considered valid?

Your submitted application will stay on file for 6 months.

12.   What does the background check entail?

Screeners are subject to an ANACI (Access National Agency Check and Inquiries) consisting of a National Agency Check (NAC), written inquiries, law enforcement and credit checks covering specific areas of a person's background during the most recent five years. Individuals will be permitted to begin work after favorable adjudication of a criminal history check.

Suitability is fitness or eligibility for employment and refers to identifiable character traits and past conduct that are sufficient to determine if an individual is likely or not likely to carry out the duties of a Federal job with appropriate efficiency and effectiveness. The focus of suitability adjudication is whether the employment or continued employment of an individual can reasonably be expected to promote the efficiency of Federal service.

13.   What does the financial background check entail?

As part of the background check, the applicant will provide information about their financial record, which includes but is not limited to questions about bankruptcy in the past 7 years and if the applicant was 180 days delinquent or more on a loan or financial obligation.

14.   Why do I have to meet all of these security requirements?(Drug screening, Background check)

Because of the sensitive nature of this work, the Aviation and Transportation Security Act (ATSA) requires that these security requirements be met.

15.   How can I be sure my application was received in its entirety?

Upon completion of your questionnaire, you should receive a message that thanks you for applying and, based on your evaluation, provides an indication of whether you may be invited to continue in the process. If you believe you have not received such a message, please contact our Call Center at 1-888-328-6172. A representative will be able to collect your pertinent information and to initiate a record look-up for your application to determine if it was received in its entirety.

16.   If I complete the application, but realize afterward that I answered a question incorrectly, can I go back and fill out the application again?

No. Applicants DO NOT have the ability to go back and re-answer questions. Therefore, it is extremely important that you answer all questions carefully and to the best of your ability. (note: even if your web browser lets you back up, you will NOT be able to change an already-submitted answer). If you are not satisfied with an answer you submitted, you will need to abandon your application and start over. For online users, you may have to wait up to 20 minutes for your computer's cookie to time out. If you feel you have made an error, you should abandon the application prior to completing and submitting it. Once you have submitted your application, it may not be possible to correct any of your responses.

17.   What do I do if I timeout or drop my internet connection before completing the application?

If you timeout or lose your connection, you should wait at least 20 minutes before attempting to start the application again, so that you will not experience a "cookie lock." If you do timeout or lose your connection, you will need to begin the application process from the beginning. Please ensure that you set aside at least 30 minutes to complete the application.

18.   If I would like to apply for the same position at different locations, do I need to reapply at each location, or is one application good for all jobs?

Your application is only good for the specific position and location listed on the vacancy announcement to which you applied.

19.   I feel I am qualified but was rejected after completing the application. Why was I rejected?

Many individuals with strong qualifications may be removed from consideration because they do not meet the qualifications outlined in the job vacancy announcement. These guidelines, developed by the Transportation Security Administration, are designed to identify the individuals with minimum qualifications and hiring preference to the specific jobs being posted. Please refer back to the relevant Vacancy Announcement to review the specific qualifications required for that position.

20.   After completing the application (either by telephone or online), I received the notification that says I meet the basic qualifications. Do I get the job?

Your application will be referred for assessment based on applicable veterans preference, the date you applied and local airport staffing needs.

You may be then referred to an assessment center for additional evaluation. The series of assessments will include:

• Transportation Security Screener aptitude
• English language proficiency
• Interview
• Background check
• Medical and physical fitness for the position
• Results of a Pre-employment drug test

TSA will provide preference to Title V and TSA Veterans hiring preference by setting aside the 1st 1 to 2 days of Assessment of veterans only .

NOTE, under TSA VETERANS PREFERENCE, the Under Secretary shall provide a preference for the hiring of an individual as a security screener if the individual is a member or former member of the armed forces and if the individual is entitled, under statute, to retired, retirement, or retainer pay on account of service as a member of the armed forces.

21.   How quickly can I be assessed?

It varies. In some cases, you may be contacted very quickly. In other cases, depending on TSA hiring schedules, you may not be contacted immediately after submitting your application, or contacted at all.  Continue to visit www.tsa.dot.gov for the most up-to-date information.

22.   Why must you administer these assessments?

Public Law 107-71, which requires the Federal Government to assume management of Transportation Security Screener duties, mandates that the government administer the above-listed assessments. These additional requirements are measured at Assessment Centers.

23. Where will Assessment Centers be located?

We anticipate that assessment centers will be located close to airports. However, candidates being assessed for small airports may be required to travel short distances to regional Assessment sites. Additionally, for the Supervisory Transportation Security Screeners who will be a part of the Mobile Screener Force (MSF), we will provide air travel, if required, and lodging, if required, to one of our 2 to 3 national assessment centers.

24.   I received a Congratulations notice at the end of the questionnaire. Will I be notified to go to an Assessment Center?

Whether you are contacted and asked to come to an Assessment Center depends on the number of applicants, the number of people we are hiring, specific staffing needs, your qualifications, your experience, and hiring preference.

25.   I passed the assessments at the assessment center. Do I have the job?

You should know immediately whether or not you are offered an immediate employment opportunity or placement in the "ready pool". Actual hiring decisions are based upon local airport requirements, veteran's preference and the number of eligible candidates.

26.   What is the "Ready Pool"?

The Ready Pool is a group of applicants who have passed all Phases of the Assessment and are available for hire should additional positions become available. Title V and TSA Veterans Preference eligibles in the Ready Pool have first priority on any additional positions that become available.

27.   Do I get paid for time spent completing the assessments?

No.

28.   What can I do to study for the screener examination?

At this time the TSA does not have any pre-examination materials available. The vacancy announcement describes the position and candidates should review this information. At this time, the TSA has not validated nor endorsed any screener examination preparation courses. We invite you to visit the www.tsa.dot.gov web site frequently for any application information updates.

29.   How can I find out what part of the examination I failed?

Candidates will be told if they failed the competency assessment, medical evaluation, physical abilities test, drug test, or background investigation. Candidates who fail or require further evaluation as a result of the medical screen will be provided specific information regarding those results. Due to the nature of the pass/fail system, more detailed feedback will not be made available to candidates regarding the other examination results.

30.   When can I retest for the screener position?

Retest opportunities will be dependent on whether screener positions will be available at the airport of your choice. If vacancies exist at the airport of your choice, you may be eligible for a retest opportunity if at a minimum, it has been at least six months from your first testing date.. You will also have to complete the application process again and compete in the applicant pool at the time of the vacancy. All applicants will be given the same consideration whether they have taken the test before or not.

31.   I am currently a screener/supervisor and failed the test. How could this happen?

These positions are new jobs with the TSA, an agency of the Federal Government. As such, the knowledge, skills, and abilities have been established for the work to be performed by the national federal workforce. These standards are likely different than the standards of your current employer. The TSA has taken every step possible to ensure that the skill standards and assessment process is valid and fair.

32.   Will additional positions (besides Transportation Security Screener and Supervisor) be available through TSA?

Yes, we will advertise these positions once they are determined and your best source of current information is at www.tsa.dot.gov.

B. Completion of the Hiring Process and Training

33.   What happens after I am offered the job?

If offered the job, you must:

• successfully complete 40 hours of classroom training as of the date specified in your letter, and
• successfully complete 60 hours of on-the-job training, and
• pass the certification examination.

34.   If I am hired and wish to transfer to another airport after a position becomes available there, may I transfer to that airport?

You may be restricted in your ability to immediately transfer to another airport, depending on TSA staffing needs. You should not take a position with the expectation that you will be able to transfer to another location immediately, even for the same position.

35.   Where will the Transportation Security Screener/Supervisor training take place?

The first 40 hours of classroom training will take place at a training center located within traveling distance to the airport to which you are applying. The additional 60 on-the-job training will take place at the airport to which you are applying.

36.   Will Transportation Security Screeners/Supervisor be paid during training?

Yes. Screeners will be paid according to their base salary during the 40 hours of classroom training and 60 hours of on-the-job training.

37.   What is the minimum grade required for Transportation Security Screeners to pass the training examinations?

The grading will be in the format of pass/fail.

38.   Does pay increase after training?

Your pay may increase after you successfully complete the required 40 hours of classroom and on-the-job training and are certified on all equipment.

C. General Questions and Answers

39.   Will application forms be distributed to the current security screeners?

No. Applicants are encouraged to complete applications online. Additionally, applicants may apply over the phone. TSA recommends that if you are interested in applying for a federal screening job, you check the web site for openings at an airport near you.

40.   If I applied for the Mobile Screening Force (MSF) team (formerly known as SWAT) and did not get accepted, is my application still valid?

Your application will remain on file for the MSF position for 6 months.. If you are interested in being a Security Screener or Supervisor, you will need to apply separately for those positions.

41.   Will there be additional job opportunities available after the initial hiring process for Transportation Security Screeners?

TSA anticipates that additional federal positions will become available as airport security is federalized. Please continue to visit the www.tsa.dot.gov web site for current hiring information.

42.   Will current contract screeners have an opportunity to submit applications before the rest of the country?

When the vacancy announcement opens, all applicants may apply.

43.   Will the government compensate screeners who are displaced?

No. However, the Transportation Security Administration is working closely with existing security screening companies to ensure that their displaced screeners get a bonus for staying at their post until relieved by federal screeners. Further, screeners who are displaced are eligible for unemployment insurance. However, screeners who resign before being displaced are not eligible for unemployment insurance.

44.   What is the pay for these positions?

The pay range is listed on the vacancy announcement. In most cases, employees will begin at the base level with the additional locality pay for their home location. However, this is a career position that offers you promotion potential.

45.   Can I work part-time?

Depending upon specific work requirements, some airports may hire part-time Lead Transportation Security Screeners, Supervisory Transportation Security Screeners or Transportation Security Screeners.

46.   What will my work schedule be?

Your supervisor will determine your work schedule. However, to be considered for employment you must be able to work irregular hours and/or shifts, holidays and weekends, overtime, and beyond 8 hours a day, if required.

47.   Will EDS operators be Federal screeners?

Yes. Federal law requires that all EDS operators (also known as: CTX or L3) at our nation's airports be federal employees by November 18th, 2002.

48.   If I am a retired federal employee with a federal pension, will I lose my pension if I rejoin the Government as a Transportation Security Screener/Supervisor?

Retirees can work for the Federal Government. However, federal civilian retirees will have their salary reduced by the amount of their annuity unless an exception is approved and retirees under age 70 may have their social security check reduced if their annual earnings exceed the establish limit.

49.   Will past government service be taken into account for applicants?

Yes, your past federal service will generally be added to the service computation date for retirement and leave purposes. However, past government service will not give applicants a preference.

50.   Are the TSA Transportation Security Screener Supervisor positions wage grade or GS?

Screener positions are not classified under either the GS or wage grade pay systems. TSA has adopted the FAA compensation system, called Core Compensation. Core Compensation includes job categories, career levels, and pay bands. Specialized compensation plans, based on the core plan, may be developed to address unique business needs for individual segments of our work force. To find out more about this system visit the FAA web site at http://www.faa.gov/corecomp.

51.   Can I work part time in a TSA field position while employed by the military?

Generally Federal employees, civilian and military, are prohibited from receiving pay from more than one Federal Government source. The laws on dual employment apply to agencies in the executive, legislative and judicial branches, corporations owned or controlled by the Government, and nonappropriated fund organizations under the jurisdiction of the armed forces. Members of a Uniformed Service (Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, etc.) on active duty may not receive pay from another Government position, except during terminal leave, or unless specifically authorized by law. Members of the Armed Forces Reserves and members of the National Guard may receive military pay and allowances in addition to pay from another Government position.)

52.   Will years of military experience be applied/rolled over to the TSA Screener/Supervisor position? (i.e., if an individual has 20 years of military experience, will a certain percentage of those years apply to the new position, thereby granting additional benefits, early retirement, etc.?)

Yes - Please see the following:

Service Credit for Leave Rate Accrual and Retirement - Not Retired from Uniformed Service
    For non-retired members, full credit for uniformed service (including active duty and active duty for training) performed under honorable conditions is given for leave accrual purposes, and for retirement purposes provided a deposit, as required by law, is made to the retirement fund. Uniformed service as defined in 5 U.S.C. 2101 means the Armed Forces, the commissioned corps of the Public Health Service, and the commissioned corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Veterans first employed in a position covered by the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) on or after October 1, 1982, or in a position covered by the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) on or after January 1, 1984, must make a deposit to the retirement fund of 7 percent (for CSRS) or 3 percent (for FERS) of basic military pay to obtain retirement credit. Veterans employed in civil service positions before October 1, 1982, have the option of either making a deposit to cover their military service or having their civil service annuity recomputed to delete post-1956 military service if they are eligible for social security at age 62. If civilian service is interrupted by uniformed service, special rules apply (see Chapter 7, Restoration After Uniformed Service).

Retired from Uniformed Service
    Credit for uniformed service is substantially limited for retired members. In enacting the Dual Compensation Act in 1964, Congress adopted a compromise between the view that retired members should receive preference and full credit for their service and the view that there should be no advantage for retired members. For leave accrual, retirees receive credit only for: Actual service during a war declared by Congress (includes World War II covering the period December 7, 1941, to April 28, 1952) or while participating in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge is authorized; or all active duty when retirement was based on a disability received as a direct result of armed conflict or caused by an instrumentality of war and incurred in the line of duty during a period of war as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(11). "Period of war" includes World War II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam era, the Persian Gulf War, or the period beginning on the date of any future declaration of war by the Congress and ending on the date prescribed by Presidential proclamation or concurrent resolution of the Congress.

For retirement:
    An employee must waive military retired pay to receive any credit for military service unless the retired pay is awarded based on a service-connected disability incurred in combat with an enemy of the United States or caused by an instrumentality of war and incurred in the line of duty during a period of war as defined by 38 U.S.C. 301, or awarded under 10 U.S.C. chapter 1223 (previously chapter 67). 5 U.S.C. 6303, 8332 and 8411(c); and the CSRS and FERS Handbook

TSA Hiring Schedule

53.   When will you be hiring for airports in my location?

The Federal government's staffing of Transportation Security Screener positions at airports across the United States and its territories is occurring between March and November 2002. Information about hiring in your local area may be provided by radio, local TV, local press, state employment office, or other means. Please continue to visit www.tsa.dot.gov for more information. Updates are regularly posted.

54.   If I want to apply to an airport outside of where I live, will you pay my moving expenses?

No. Our initial hiring focus is to fill the local airport(s) Transportation Security Screener positions with local residents.

2. Position-Specific Questions

Lead Transportation Security Screeners

55.   Am I qualified to be a Lead Transportation Security Screener?

Basic requirements:

You must be a U.S. citizen

AND

You must have one of the following: High school diploma, GED or equivalent.

OR

At least one year of full-time work experience in security work or aviation screener work, or with x-ray technician work.

AND

In accordance with Public Law 107-71, all applicants will be required to pass tests, interviews, and other evaluations demonstrating that they have the necessary skills and abilities for job performance. These requirements include:

• Mental abilities (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, visual observation, mental rotation)
• Interpersonal Skills (e.g., customer service, honesty, integrity, dependability)
• Physical Abilities (e.g., repeatedly lifting and carrying up to 40 lbs, identifying objects by touch)
• Medical Standards:
-Distant vision correctable to 20/30 or better


-Near vision correctable to 20/50 or better


-Color perception (e.g., red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, brown, black, white, gray) by passing the Farnsworth D-15 color vision test


-Hearing as measured by audiometry cannot exceed: a) an average hearing loss of 30 decibels (ANSI) at 500, 1000, 2000, and 3000Hz in each ear, b) single readings of 50 decibels at 2000 or 3000Hz in each ear, c) single reading of 55 decibels at 4000Hz in each ear


-Adequate joint mobility, dexterity and range of motion, strength, and stability, as well as a complete medical evaluation including cardiovascular system, hypertension, etc.


-Drug-free as assessed through a drug test

56.   Is there an age limit for this position?

No.

57.   As a Lead Transportation Security Screener, what will I do?

In this key public safety capacity, you will play a large role in the frontline screening of baggage, cargo and passengers in an effort to provide maximum security to air travelers, airports and airplanes. You will be expected to work closely with a team of other security professionals to most effectively serve in this capacity. Specific duties of the position will include:

• Identifying, distributing and balancing workload and tasks among employees
• Making adjustments to accomplish the workload in accordance with established priorities
• Training or arranging for the technical training of team members
• Monitoring and reporting on the status and progress of work
• Serving as a coach, facilitator and/or negotiator in coordinating team initiatives and in consensus building activities among team members
• Preparing reports and maintaining records of work accomplishments and administrative information
• Representing the team in dealings with the supervisor or manager for the purpose of obtaining resources (e.g., computer hardware and software, use of overtime or compensatory time), and securing needed information or decisions from the supervisor on major work problems and issues that arise
• May approve emergency leave for up to three days; eight hours or less for medical appointments; and/or other types of leave as delegated by management
• Resolving simple, informal complaints of employees and refer others, such as formal grievances and appeals, to the supervisor or an appropriate management official
• Interceding with the supervisor on behalf of the team to inform the supervisor of performance management issues/problems and to recommend/request related actions, such as: assignments, reassignments, promotions, and tour of duty changes, peer reviews and performance appraisals
• Screen passengers and/or baggage and/or cargo as required.

58.   As a Lead Transportation Security Screener (STSS), how much money will I make?

The basic salary range is from $31,100 to $46,700 a year depending upon your qualifications and experience. In addition to the basic pay for this position, you will receive extra pay, called locality pay, and based on the geographic area of your permanent duty station, which helps to positively adjust your salary for cost of living. The Federal Government offers generous benefits including Life Insurance, Health Insurance, and Retirement Programs. These benefits are partially paid by the Federal Government. You will also earn vacation time and sick leave.

Supervisory Transportation Security Screeners

59   Am I qualified to be a Supervisory Transportation Security Screener?

Basic requirements:

You must be a U.S. citizen

AND

You must have one of the following: High school diploma, GED or equivalent.

OR

At least one year of full-time work experience in security work or aviation screener work, or with x-ray technician work.

AND

You must also have:

• Specialized experience in identifying dangerous or deadly objects in baggage, cargo or on passengers.

• The ability to supervise.

• Mental abilities (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, visual observation, mental rotation)
• Interpersonal Skills (e.g., customer service, honesty, integrity, dependability)
• Physical Abilities (e.g., repeatedly lifting and carrying up to 40 lbs, identifying objects by touch)
• Medical Standards:
-Distant vision correctable to 20/30 or better


-Near vision correctable to 20/50 or better


-Color perception (e.g., red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, brown, black, white, gray) by passing the Farnsworth D-15 color vision test


-Hearing as measured by audiometry cannot exceed: a) an average hearing loss of 30 decibels (ANSI) at 500, 1000, 2000, and 3000Hz in each ear, b) single readings of 50 decibels at 2000 or 3000Hz in each ear, c) single reading of 55 decibels at 4000Hz in each ear


-Adequate joint mobility, dexterity and range of motion, strength, and stability, as well as a complete medical evaluation including cardiovascular system, hypertension, etc.


-Drug-free as assessed through a drug test

60.   Is there an age limit for this position?

No.

61.   As a Supervisory Transportation Security Screener, what will I do?

As a Supervisory Transportation Security Screener:

You will coach, manage and ensure the performance and training of personnel who provide the frontline security and protection of air travelers, airplanes and airports. This frontline defense is responsible for: Identifying dangerous objects in baggage, cargo and on passengers and preventing those objects from being transported onto the aircraft.

Performing this security mission in a courteous and professional manner.

You will supervise the members of your staff who will use diverse, cutting edge electronic detection and imaging equipment.

At some point, you may participate in or attend meetings where classified information is provided.

62.   As a Supervisory Transportation Security Screener (STSS), how much money will I make?

The basic salary range is from $36,400 to $56,400 a year depending upon your qualifications and experience. In addition to the basic pay for this position, you will receive extra pay, called locality pay, and based on the geographic area of your permanent duty station, which helps to positively adjust your salary for cost of living. If you are a STSS SWAT member, while deployed, you will receive travel and per diem pay in addition to your salary. The Federal Government offers generous benefits including Life Insurance, Health Insurance, and Retirement Programs. These benefits are partially paid by the Federal Government. You will also earn vacation time and sick leave.

Transportation Security Screeners

63.   Am I qualified to be a Transportation Security Screener?

Basic requirements:

You must be a U.S. citizen

AND

You must have one of the following: High school diploma, GED or equivalent.

OR

At least one year of full-time work experience in security work or aviation screener work, or with x-ray technician work.

AND

In accordance with Public Law 107-71, all applicants will be required to pass tests, interviews, and other evaluations demonstrating that they have the necessary skills and abilities for job performance. These requirements include:

• Mental abilities (e.g., reading, writing, speaking, visual observation, mental rotation)
• Interpersonal Skills (e.g., customer service, honesty, integrity, dependability)
• Physical Abilities (e.g., repeatedly lifting and carrying up to 40 lbs, identifying objects by touch)
• Medical Standards:
-Distant vision correctable to 20/30 or better


-Near vision correctable to 20/50 or better


-Color perception (e.g., red, green, blue, yellow, orange, purple, brown, black, white, gray) by passing the Farnsworth D-15 color vision test


-Hearing as measured by audiometry cannot exceed: a) an average hearing loss of 30 decibels (ANSI) at 500, 1000, 2000, and 3000Hz in each ear, b) single readings of 50 decibels at 2000 or 3000Hz in each ear, c) single reading of 55 decibels at 4000Hz in each ear


-Adequate joint mobility, dexterity and range of motion, strength, and stability, as well as a complete medical evaluation including cardiovascular system, hypertension, etc.


-Drug-free as assessed through a drug test

64.   Is there an age limit for this position?

No.

65.   As a Transportation Security Screener, what will I do?

You will provide frontline security and protection of air travelers, airports and airplanes. As the frontline defense, you are responsible for identifying dangerous or deadly objects in baggage, cargo and on passengers and preventing those objects from being transported onto aircraft. In ensuring the identification of dangerous objects in baggage, cargo, or on an air traveler, you must perform this essential security mission in a courteous and professional manner. You will use diverse, cutting edge, electronic detection and imaging equipment. Finally, you may participate in or attend meetings where classified information is provided.

66.   As a Transportation Security Screener, how much money will I make?

The basic salary range is from $23,600 to $35,400 a year depending upon your qualifications and experience. In addition, to the basic pay for this position, you will receive extra pay, called locality pay, based on the geographic area of your permanent duty station, which helps to positively adjust your salary for cost of living. The Federal Government offers generous benefits including Life Insurance, Health Insurance, and Retirement. These benefits are partially paid by the Federal Government. You will also earn vacation time and sick leave.

 PUBLIC LAW 107-71

(a) IN GENERAL- Section 44935 of title 49, United States Code, is amended--

(1) by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection (i); and

(2) by striking subsection (e) and inserting the following:

`(e) SECURITY SCREENERS-

`(1) TRAINING PROGRAM- The Under Secretary of Transportation for Security shall establish a program for the hiring and training of security screening personnel.

`(2) HIRING-

`(A) QUALIFICATIONS- Within 30 days after the date of enactment of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, the Under Secretary shall establish qualification standards for individuals to be hired by the United States as security screening personnel. Notwithstanding any provision of law, those standards shall require, at a minimum, an individual--

`(i) to have a satisfactory or better score on a Federal security screening personnel selection examination;

`(ii) to be a citizen of the United States;

`(iii) to meet, at a minimum, the requirements set forth in subsection (f);

`(iv) to meet such other qualifications as the Under Secretary may establish; and

`(v) to have the ability to demonstrate daily a fitness for duty without any impairment due to illegal drugs, sleep deprivation, medication, or alcohol.

`(B) BACKGROUND CHECKS- The Under Secretary shall require that an individual to be hired as a security screener undergo an employment investigation (including a criminal history record check) under section 44936(a)(1).

`(C) DISQUALIFICATION OF INDIVIDUALS WHO PRESENT NATIONAL SECURITY RISKS- The Under Secretary, in consultation with the heads of other appropriate Federal agencies, shall establish procedures, in addition to any background check conducted under section 44936, to ensure that no individual who presents a threat to national security is employed as a security screener.

`(3) EXAMINATION; REVIEW OF EXISTING RULES- The Under Secretary shall develop a security screening personnel examination for use in determining the qualification of individuals seeking employment as security screening personnel. The Under Secretary shall also review, and revise as necessary, any standard, rule, or regulation governing the employment of individuals as security screening personnel.

`(f) EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS FOR SCREENING PERSONNEL-

`(1) SCREENER REQUIREMENTS- Notwithstanding any provision of law, an individual may not be deployed as a security screener unless that individual meets the following requirements:

`(A) The individual shall possess a high school diploma, a general equivalency diploma, or experience that the Under Secretary has determined to be sufficient for the individual to perform the duties of the position.

`(B) The individual shall possess basic aptitudes and physical abilities, including color perception, visual and aural acuity, physical coordination, and motor skills, to the following standards:

`(i) Screeners operating screening equipment shall be able to distinguish on the screening equipment monitor the appropriate imaging standard specified by the Under Secretary.

`(ii) Screeners operating any screening equipment shall be able to distinguish each color displayed on every type of screening equipment and explain what each color signifies.

`(iii) Screeners shall be able to hear and respond to the spoken voice and to audible alarms generated by screening equipment in an active checkpoint environment.

`(iv) Screeners performing physical searches or other related operations shall be able to efficiently and thoroughly manipulate and handle such baggage, containers, and other objects subject to security processing.

`(v) Screeners who perform pat-downs or hand-held metal detector searches of individuals shall have sufficient dexterity and capability to thoroughly conduct those procedures over an individual's entire body.

`(C) The individual shall be able to read, speak, and write English well enough to--

`(i) carry out written and oral instructions regarding the proper performance of screening duties;

`(ii) read English language identification media, credentials, airline tickets, and labels on items normally encountered in the screening process;

`(iii) provide direction to and understand and answer questions from English-speaking individuals undergoing screening; and

`(iv) write incident reports and statements and log entries into security records in the English language.

`(D) The individual shall have satisfactorily completed all initial, recurrent, and appropriate specialized training required by the security program, except as provided in paragraph (3).

`(2) VETERANS PREFERENCE- The Under Secretary shall provide a preference for the hiring of an individual as a security screener if the individual is a member or former member of the armed forces and if the individual is entitled, under statute, to retired, retirement, or retainer pay on account of service as a member of the armed forces.

`(3) EXCEPTIONS- An individual who has not completed the training required by this section may be deployed during the on-the-job portion of training to perform functions if that individual- -

`(A) is closely supervised; and

`(B) does not make independent judgments as to whether individuals or property may enter a sterile area or aircraft without further inspection.

`(4) REMEDIAL TRAINING- No individual employed as a security screener may perform a screening function after that individual has failed an operational test related to that function until that individual has successfully completed the remedial training specified in the security program.

`(5) ANNUAL PROFICIENCY REVIEW- The Under Secretary shall provide that an annual evaluation of each individual assigned screening duties is conducted and documented. An individual employed as a security screener may not continue to be employed in that capacity unless the evaluation demonstrates that the individual--

`(A) continues to meet all qualifications and standards required to perform a screening function;

`(B) has a satisfactory record of performance and attention to duty based on the standards and requirements in the security program; and

`(C) demonstrates the current knowledge and skills necessary to courteously, vigilantly, and effectively perform screening functions.

`(6) OPERATIONAL TESTING- In addition to the annual proficiency review conducted under paragraph (5), the Under Secretary shall provide for the operational testing of such personnel.

`(g) Training-

`(1) USE OF OTHER AGENCIES- The Under Secretary may enter into a memorandum of understanding or other arrangement with any other Federal agency or department with appropriate law enforcement responsibilities, to provide personnel, resources, or other forms of assistance in the training of security screening personnel.

`(2) TRAINING PLAN- Within 60 days after the date of enactment of the Aviation and Transportation Security Act, the Under Secretary shall develop a plan for the training of security screening personnel. The plan shall require, at a minimum, that a security screener--

`(A) has completed 40 hours of classroom instruction or successfully completed a program that the Under Secretary determines will train individuals to a level of proficiency equivalent to the level that would be achieved by such classroom instruction;

`(B) has completed 60 hours of on-the-job instructions; and

`(C) has successfully completed an on-the-job training examination prescribed by the Under Secretary.

`(3) EQUIPMENT-SPECIFIC TRAINING- An individual employed as a security screener may not use any security screening device or equipment in the scope of that individual's employment unless the individual has been trained on that device or equipment and has successfully completed a test on the use of the device or equipment.

`(h) TECHNOLOGICAL TRAINING-

`(1) IN GENERAL- The Under Secretary shall require training to ensure that screeners are proficient in using the most up-to-date new technology and to ensure their proficiency in recognizing new threats and weapons.

`(2) PERIODIC ASSESSMENTS- The Under Secretary shall make periodic assessments to determine if there are dual use items and inform security screening personnel of the existence of such items.

`(3) CURRENT LISTS OF DUAL USE ITEMS- Current lists of dual use items shall be part of the ongoing training for screeners.

`(4) DUAL USE DEFINED- For purposes of this subsection, the term `dual use' item means an item that may seem harmless but that may be used as a weapon.

`(i) LIMITATION ON RIGHT TO STRIKE- An individual that screens passengers or property, or both, at an airport under this section may not participate in a strike, or assert the right to strike, against the person (including a governmental entity) employing such individual to perform such screening.

`(j) UNIFORMS- The Under Secretary shall require any individual who screens passengers and property pursuant to section 44901 to be attired while on duty in a uniform approved by the Under Secretary.'.

(b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS- Section 44936(a)(1) of title 49, United States Code, is amended--

(1) in subparagraph (A) by inserting `as a security screener under section 44935(e) or a position' after `a position'; and

(2) in subparagraph (E) by striking clause (iv).

(c) TRANSITION- The Under Secretary of Transportation for Security shall complete the full implementation of section 44935 (e), (f), (g), and (h) of title 49, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), as soon as is practicable. The Under Secretary may make or continue such arrangements for the training of security screeners under that section as the Under Secretary determines necessary pending full implementation of that section as so amended.

(d) SCREENER PERSONNEL- Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Under Secretary of Transportation for Security may employ, appoint, discipline, terminate, and fix the compensation, terms, and conditions of employment of Federal service for such a number of individuals as the Under Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out the screening functions of the Under Secretary under section 44901 of title 49, United States Code. The Under Secretary shall establish levels of compensation and other benefits for individuals so employed.

VETERANS PREFERENCE

`(2) VETERANS PREFERENCE- The Under Secretary shall provide a preference for the hiring of an individual as a security screener if the individual is a member or former member of the armed forces and if the individual is entitled, under statute, to retired, retirement, or retainer pay on account of service as a member of the armed forces.