Full-Time Airport Security Officer

METROPOLITAN KNOXVILLE AIRPORT AUTHORITY

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) was established in 1978 as a nonprofit agency to own and operate the city's aviation system, McGhee Tyson Airport and Downtown Island Airport, and has recently celebrated a full 87-years in service to the East Tennessee area.  Being centrally located within a one day's drive or a few hours flight from major cities, MKAA continues to be integral to the air transportation system. If you are interested in helping contribute to the future success of the McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX), please read further.  

The Position:

Airport Security Officer responsibilities involve maintaining the safe movement of traffic and pedestrians, performing routine inspections and screens, and supporting surveillance activities of the airport and grounds. As typically the first contact people see when coming to the airport, the Airport Security Officer interacts heavily with the public and often provides travel directions, gives general information about the airport, and addresses complaints concerning parking citations.  The position requires active movement or standing for much of the shift to help direct traffic, especially during peak flight periods and for special events. On-the-job training is provided for conducting inspections. This position is located outdoors. Work on weekends is expected, and overtime may be required.

Responsibilities:

• Directs vehicular and pedestrian traffic, patrols outside terminal levels on foot, and issues citations to vehicles illegally parked or in violation of other parking regulations. Initiates the first step in the impoundment of vehicles due to delinquent citations or other violations.


• Provides customer service to visitors, passengers, tenants, and employees alike. Enforces the rules and regulations of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).


• Performs recurrent security checks, vehicle and vendor inspections, and safety inspections; issues permits, and conduct escorts.


• Works special events (airshow, dignitary visits, etc.), supports Public Safety Officers, as directed, and assists in any other task or duty assigned by the Chief of Public Safety or Shift Captain.


• Conducts Persons and Accessible Property Screening


• Performs related work, as required.
  

The Ideal Candidate:

Should be observant, attentive to details, and practice situational awareness, particularly when directing traffic.

Is able to have a professional and calm demeanor in stressful or hostile situations. Customer service experience or background is helpful.

Will be able to communicate clearly and concisely in person and on radio communications.

In this role, the selected candidate will gain general knowledge of flight schedules. They will learn and understand regulations governing the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as they pertain to traffic, security, and safety. They will also learn City of Knoxville taxi cab and limousine regulations.   

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

High School diploma or equivalent, no prior experience is necessary for this position.

The selected candidate will need to become licensed or certified in the American Heart Association Basic Life Support and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and Automated Defibrillators once in the role (training provided). 

Salary and Compensation:

The hiring range for this position is $36,465.90 - $47,405.67 (final salary will depend on experience).  MKAA offers a very competitive benefits package for this position, including medical/dental/vision benefits, disability/life insurance, vacation leave, sick leave, and a 401(a)-retirement program.  

Deadline to Apply:  For best consideration, apply by Sunday, June 22, 2025.  Position open until filled.

Please apply through this website (preferred), or mail resume to P.O. Box 15600 | Knoxville, TN 37901 | Attention: HR. Resumes/Applications must be received by the stated deadline, or postmarked by the deadline date, to be considered. No phone calls please.

Selection Process:

Applications (and additional documents, if applicable) will be reviewed to identify applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority.  Employment process includes a security background check and physical (if applicable), which includes drug testing.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a long-term basis.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority conducts random employee drug screening.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.