Relief Terminal Security Officer

The Port of Tacoma’s Security Department is recruiting for Relief Terminal Security Officer (TSO) positions. A TSO is an unarmed proprietary security officer who is charged with the safety, security, and protection of a designated terminal area’s personnel, stakeholders, and all properties in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations, and terminal procedures. These are limited-duration positions that are represented by a collective bargaining agreement. 

These are non-benefited positions with no guarantee as to the number of hours to be allocated.

Primary Functions

• Enforce all applicable port security-related federal, state, and local laws and regulations. Follows all security, traffic, and safety rules and regulations and engages in support activities for first responders.
• Execute Port of Tacoma security duties encompassing the physical security of port areas, terminal areas, waterways, and adjacent port shoreline security, operational security, information security (protecting sensitive security information), supply-chain security, and others. Monitor and control access into and out of terminal facilities during assigned hours.
• Dedicated exclusively to 24-hour terminals safety and security activities, responsible for patrol and surveillance of the terminal and adjacent waterways; manage the terminal entry control points and executes Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence (C3I) duties at the designated Terminal Control Center.
• Operates a shuttle van for transporting vessel officers, crew, and visitors to/from the vessel.
• Monitors vessel berthing at the terminal to ensure safe and secure docking. Execute or support the security screening of over-the-road trucks at the gate.
• Oversees public safety as well as environmental and maritime-related safety regulations. Supports the maintenance of the free flow of commerce and produces a safe, secure environment that promotes uninterrupted terminal operations.
• The TSO assists in the prevention and reporting of transportation security incidents, security breaches, and crime within the assigned terminal areas. 
• Execute surveillance of operations terminals and cargo storage areas, and conduct physical inspections of terminal buildings, operational areas, waterways, etc.
• Enforce vehicle and pedestrian traffic control, correct and report traffic and safety hazards observed to the appropriate authorities. Initiate and submit daily reports covering port security and shift activities/assignments.
• Maintain communications with other security agencies.

Required Education and Experience

• The minimum education required is graduation from high school or GED equivalent. Must maintain a valid Washington State Driver License and Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• Previous job experience required is a minimum of two (2) years experience working in a role that is customer service focused AND at least one (1) year experience as a security officer in private industry, military or applicable environment. Must have and maintain an excellent driving record. Preference will be given to qualified candidates who are able to work all shifts.

Additional Requirements

Must have the ability to learn laws, procedures, practices, and techniques necessary to execute terminal security operations, as well as the laws, codes, statutes, and regulations concerning port security activities and other areas as applicable. Individuals must understand the techniques, practices, and procedures necessary to have effective interaction with the general public and officers of other agencies and municipalities. Must be able to comprehend Port security duty manuals and terminal facilities security plan to which they are assigned, departmental organizations, Port of Tacoma administrative direction and culture, and all other applicable regulations and policies. 

Individuals must possess the skills to use and care for radio communications equipment, as well as be able to execute security performance tasks as they relate to terminal operations and waterfront activities, including physical security, supply-chain security, waterways security, information security, and others. Must be skilled at the use and application of the National Incident Management System/Incident Command Structure, including completion of IS100 and must assume collateral duties related to port safety, security, and policing activities and assume other duties, tasks, and responsibilities as assigned.

Individuals must have the ability to cope with situations firmly, courteously, tactfully, and with respect for other's rights, as well as be able to analyze situations quickly and objectively to determine a proper course of action. Must be able to understand and carry out oral and written instructions, write and speak effectively, accurately, and comprehensibly and learn administrative procedures connected with terminal security work. Individuals must have unquestionable integrity and be able to physically perform all assigned duties. Must be able to respond favorably to stress, sustain strong anger management skills, and maintain a high degree of emotional stability. Individuals must have the ability to serve as first responders in emergency situations and perform first aid procedures, including AED and CPR, as well as have upper body flexibility and a full range of movement of upper extremities. Must be able to operate a personal computer and have effective technical skills.

This individual must demonstrate a caring customer service attitude, a strong commitment to operational excellence and be able to display behaviors and a commitment to the organization's core values. We value an individual who also brings an impeccable work ethic, is honest, and models a high level of integrity. The Port of Tacoma wants candidates who display enthusiasm, energy, and a drive to succeed. Under the direction of the Chief Executive Officer, the organization's culture is built on the following values: Integrity, Customer Service, Competitive Spirit, Courage, Sustainability, and Collaboration. The Port seeks candidates who can align and model these values both internally and externally and understand what it means to carry out these values in their everyday work.

The Port of Tacoma has implemented a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy to safeguard the health of Port employees, their families, and the public we serve, as well as to meet the requirements of Executive Order 14042, which requires federal contractors like the Port to adopt and enforce a mandatory vaccination policy. Effective 12/8/2021 the federal mandate and Port policy have been suspended due to a federal court injunction until further notice.

In accordance with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986, all persons offered employment must provide acceptable proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States. A proof will be required prior to employment.

The successful candidate must possess (or obtain within 30 days of employment) a valid driver's license. Candidate must be able to successfully complete a post-offer substance abuse test (includes both drug and alcohol) and background investigation, with includes a DMV request and reference check. The candidate must also be able to obtain/maintain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), which is a program managed by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

THE PORT OF TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER COMMITTED TO PROMOTING AND ENCOURAGING DIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE.