JOB INFORMATION:

Job Title: Protective Services Officer

Location(s): Terminal as assigned

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Starting Pay: $26.78/hour & excellent benefits package

JOB OVERVIEW:

Under the supervision of the On-Duty Shift Supervisor, the Protective Services Officer (PSO) controls traffic gates, directs motor vehicle traffic and motorized heavy equipment, checks proper authorization and identification of all cargo, property, or persons entering or exiting the terminal. Redirects or interdicts unauthorized persons or vehicles off or away from the facility. Monitors, manipulates cameras and surveillance equipment; alerts and communicates with GPA police, or other departments through computers, radio equipment or other electronic devices.

Upholds the values of the GPA to promote Safety, Integrity, Respect, Community, Creativity and Opportunity. Promotes a safe work environment by participating in safety initiatives and reporting unsafe conditions and behaviors.

JOB DUTIES:

Directs and controls motor vehicle and / or pedestrian traffic at all gates, employee turnstiles, building and facility access points and maintains accurate electronic or handwritten records of all activity.
Performs identification checks and maintains positive control of assigned access points.
Monitors the facility for unusual activity and unauthorized entry and communicates observations to GPA Police Dispatch and other response personnel through the use of assigned radio equipment.
Performs reasonable examinations (screenings) of persons, cargo, vehicles and baggage for the detection and to prevent the introduction of certain dangerous substances or devices, or other items that pose a real danger of violence or a threat to security of persons or the facility, in accordance with MTSA regulations and GPA approved Facility Security Plan (FSP).
Keeps work areas safe and clean.
Must be proficient in the detection, identification and isolation of prohibited objects or contraband found in violation of federal or state law, MTSA compliance, Department of Homeland Security or Georgia Ports Authority rules and regulations.
Communicate effectively and professionally with co-workers and the public. Maintain a professional appearance and attitude while providing helpful service to port users.
Provides vessel crew member transport through the facility as needed.
Performs other duties as assigned
Complies with all policies and standards

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Able to effectively articulate facts, alarms, intrusion alerts, observations or incidences orally, through written reports, radio or other electronic media.
Must have legible handwriting; able to type and work computerized word processing and scanning equipment; able to compare, discriminate, articulate and formulate information accurately, and arrive at sound and reasonable decisions able to give instructions and information clearly, decisively, and concisely; must be able to remain composed and conduct behavior in a professional manner during difficult or stressful situations.
Must be able to tolerate extended exposure to dust, dirt, vehicle emissions, loud noises associated with traffic or heavy industrial environment, inclement weather and seasonal temperature variances and extremes.
Must be able to stand or sit for prolonged periods of time.
Must be able to work rotating shifts, holidays, and weekends. Ability to deal effectively and professionally with others.

Education

Required High School Diploma or equivalent

Licenses & Certifications

TWIC - Transportation Worker Identification Credential Required
Driver's License - Valid state driver's license Required

Note: This job description is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, job requirements, or working conditions associated with the job. Management reserves the right to revise the job or to require the performance of different or additional tasks. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation, an without direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Revised: 11/9/2026

Mission: To empower entrepreneurs, strengthen industries, sustain communities, and fortify families by relentlessly striving to accelerate global commerce.

Protective Services Officer

Key skills

About this role