Public Safety Officer I

ABOUT US: The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority 

Established in 1978, the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) is a nonprofit corporation responsible for operating McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX). With 88-years of service to the East Tennessee region, McGhee Tyson Airport plays a vital role in the national air transportation network. Centrally located within a day's drive or a short flight from major cities, our airports are key gateways for travelers and businesses alike. If you're passionate about contributing to the continued success and growth of McGhee Tyson and Downtown Island Airports, we invite you to explore this opportunity further.

The Position:

The purpose of the Public Safety Officer position is to perform activities related to sworn law enforcement, firefighting, security, and emergency medical services for all Airport Authority owned property, facilities, and users. Performs operational maintenance and upkeep on physical plant and equipment. This position requires obtaining and maintaining all required certifications and training (some training may require attending courses away from home for several weeks). May perform other designated duties as assigned to ensure regulatory compliance. *This position requires working a 48-hour shift, followed by 96-hours off.

Responsibilities:

• Enforce state, federal, and local laws, as well as security policies across MKAA property.


• Ensure compliance with Tennessee POST standards, FAA regulations, TSA requirements, and Department of Homeland Security policies.


• Respond to and resolve complaints and incidents; investigate crimes, suspicious activity, and security breaches.


• Collect witness statements and prepare detailed, accurate reports of findings.


• Provide fire protection and suppression services, including training, salvage, and overhaul for aircraft, vehicles, buildings, and equipment.


• Respond to and enter wrecked or burning aircraft, vehicles, and structures to rescue trapped individuals using forcible entry tools.


• Deliver emergency medical care 24/7, including patient assessment, lifesaving treatment, and triage during critical incidents; coordinate ambulance transport when needed.


• Perform Airfield Operations duties during non-business hours, holidays, weekends, and staffing shortages.


• Assist with building maintenance tasks such as repairing security doors, baggage conveyors, escalators, elevators, jet bridges, and electronic gates during off-hours or staffing shortages.


• Complete assigned tasks and designated duties related to specific service areas.


• Perform other related work as required.

The Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of fire, police, and medical operations, as well as knowledge of airport-specific elements such as runways, markings, signage, debris and lighting inspections, and wildlife management. Familiarity with maintaining security doors, baggage conveyor systems, escalators, elevators, jet bridges, and electronic perimeter gates is essential. Successful performance in this role requires excellent oral and written communication skills, critical thinking, radio communication, negotiation, and customer service abilities. Candidates must also maintain physical and medical fitness for duty in accordance with the National Fire Code. *This position requires working a 48-hour shift, followed by 96-hours off.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Six months to one year of advanced study with 0 to 3 years of experience in a police or firefighting discipline


• Tennessee Peace Officer Standards & Training Commission (POST), Tennessee Fire Commission Structural Firefighting, FAA approved Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, and Emergency Medical Responder certifications required within 12 months in the role.
  


• A valid Tennessee state driver’s license is also required.

Salary and Compensation:

The hiring range for this position is $59,115.14 - $76,849.68, with the final offer based on experience.  MKAA provides a highly competitive benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability and life insurance; vacation and sick leave; and a 401(a)-retirement program.

Deadline to Apply:  

For best consideration, apply by Sunday, July 26, 2026.  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 or emails 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.

The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority complies with the Tennessee Lawful Employment Act and federal law by participating in E-Verify.  All post-offer new hires are verified electronically to confirm authorization to work in the United States. 

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


• MKAA conducts random employee drug screenings.


• MKAA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer