Terminal Security Officer (TSO)
Pay Range: $30.50-$31.00
Position Summary
The Terminal Security Officer (TSO) serves as the Operations Manager’s on-site representative, responsible for overseeing all security personnel and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and port regulations. This role provides leadership, coordination, and operational oversight to maintain a secure and compliant terminal environment. The TSO plays a critical role in safeguarding assets, enforcing procedures, and maintaining high standards of service and safety.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Leads and manages terminal security personnel to ensure compliance with Facility Security Plans (FSP), MTSA, and all applicable federal and state regulations.
- Coordinates operational meetings and ensure effective communication between supervisors and stakeholders.
- Acts as liaison with local, state, and federal authorities including LE, CBP, USCG, and Port Police.
- Monitors and enforces compliance with safety, access control, and security protocols; report suspicious activity to appropriate authorities.
- Oversees the safeguarding of personnel, guests, and property; ensure proper handling of Sensitive Security Information (SSI).
- Investigates and resolve guest, employee, or agency complaints; escalate unresolved issues to the Operations Manager.
- Conducts on-the-job training and performance evaluations to ensure staff readiness and upward mobility.
- Ensure schedules are accurate, balanced, and fair; monitor attendance and address policy violations.
- Maintains accurate records and reports of daily activities, incidents, and irregularities.
- Inspects work areas and access points to ensure safety, cleanliness, and regulatory compliance.
- Ensure proper documentation and inspection of identification credentials (e.g., TWIC, Port ID, passports).
- Upholds the highest standards of professionalism, discretion, and integrity in all interactions.
- Achieves operational compliance with zero major violations during scheduled audits or inspections.
- Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Operations, Operations Manager, and FSO.
Qualifications
Required:
- Education: High school diploma or GED.
- Experience: Minimum 2 years in a supervisory security role or equivalent leadership experience in an MTSA regulated environment.
- Certifications:
- State Unarmed Private Security Guard License.
- Screener certification (provided by company).
- Licenses: Valid TWIC card or ability to obtain and maintain.
- Knowledge: Familiarity with MTSA, FSP, and port security protocols.
- Skills:
- Fluent verbal and written communication in English.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, client-facing environment.
- Conflict resolution and team leadership.
- Strong attention to detail and regulatory compliance.
- Proficiency in basic computer and report-writing tasks.
Preferred:
- Education: Associate’s degree or higher.
- Additional Experiences:
- Background in law enforcement, military service, or maritime security.
- Customer service experience in a high-volume setting.
- Knowledge: Familiarity interpreting Facility Security Plans (FSP) and maritime security protocols.
- Skills: Conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Physical Demands: This role requires the ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods, including frequent movement between work areas. Must be able to inspect identification documents, operate radios and surveillance equipment, and communicate clearly. Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions. Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds may be required. Visual focus and basic computer and writing skills are essential. Final candidates must successfully complete a background check and drug screening, in accordance with applicable laws and company policy.
- Work Environment: Work is performed in both indoor security stations and outdoor terminal areas. Conditions may include exposure to weather, noise, and active operational zones. Personal protective equipment (PPE) and uniforms is provided and required as needed.
Benefits
- Referral bonus (Restrictions Apply).
- Bonus for firearm detection.
- Bonus for Ammo Detection.
- Bonus for narcotics detection.
- Bonus for expired or altered boarding pass.
- Bonus for expired or altered TWIC card.
- Bonus for expired or altered PCST and/or Port of Seattle ID badge.
- Bonus for expired or altered I-95.
- Daily pay available.
- Ongoing paid training programs and career growth opportunities.
- Holiday pay, when worked
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Why Join Us
At Nautilus, our people are our most valuable asset. We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where team members feel valued, supported and empowered to grow with us. Whether you are starting your career or looking for the next step, we are committed to investing in your development, offering clear pathways for advancement, ongoing training and leadership development.
With operating areas across CA, FL, IN, NC, NJ, SC, TX and WA, we continue to impact diverse communities and industries. We provide equal employment opportunities (https://www.metroports.com/img/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf) to all employees and applicants without regard to race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected status.
If you require reasonable accommodation to apply for a position or to perform the essential functions of a role, please contact [email protected].
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
