TSA to Hold an Open House on Thursday in Providence

The Transportation Security Administration is hiring part-time Transportation Security Officers and will be holding an open house at Network Rhode Island's Providence location Thursday.

Transportation Security Officers are responsible for screening passengers and baggage that get onto commercial flights. The jobs pay $13.57 per hour and consist of helping travelers move through security checkpoints, checking for contraband, and keeping an eye out for suspicious activities. The jobs represent the front lines of the federal government's efforts to improve safety for airline passengers after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

In late 2001, Congress formed the TSA and put it under the supervision of the Department of Homeland Security. Over the next few months the predominantly low-paid and untrained security screeners throughout the nation's airports were replaced with federal employees. Though the new agency has seen its share of problems -- including high turnover and injury rates -- the positions provide an opportunity to get a foot in the door with the federal government and get experience in the security industry.

Those interested in applying for a position with the TSA can apply online at tsacareers.recruitsoft.com or attend the open house. Candidates must be U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals and have a high school diploma. Those without a diploma but more than one year of experience in the security industry will also be considered. Since the positions require lifting bags of up to 70 pounds and dealing with public safety, applicants must pass a medical examination and background check. They also must be able to speak English.

The open house at Network Rhode Island will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 1 Reservoir Ave. in Providence.

Remember to bring a résumé.

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