Assistant Manager Airport Security, Newark Airport (EWR)

The Port Authority of NY & NJ; Newark (NJ); Hybrid; USD 106,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey seeks an Assistant Airport Security Manager to lead the Airport Security Unit and support the Airport Security Manager. You will coordinate with PAPD, TSA, and tenants to ensure security compliance and strong operational readiness.

Key duties include enforcing TSA regulations, overseeing contractor performance, managing security audits, and contributing to budget planning. The role may involve rotation shifts and occasional on-call weekends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Aviation Management or related field is required.
• Three years of experience monitoring contractor performance.
• Three years of experience supervising staff.
• Must pass a criminal history check per 49 CFR 1542 and obtain Airport Security Identification.
• Display Area (SIDA) Badge and airfield driving privileges.

Responsibilities

• Assist the ASM in overseeing the Airport Security Unit and Security Credentialing Office.
• Serve as alternate ASC and primary TSA contact when needed.
• Coordinate with PAPD and TSA for audits and drills.
• Develop risk mitigation measures and assist in budgeting for the Airport Security Unit.
• Prepare responses and corrective actions for TSA audits.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Aviation Management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word, PowerPoint)

Job description

About the Role

NOTE: The selected candidate will be required to pass a PAPD background check.

The Assistant Airport Security Manager (ASM) is responsible for the efficient and effective operation of the Airport Security Unit. In the absence of the ASM, the Assistant ASM serves in his/her place. This position is one of high trust and is responsible for confidential and sensitive security information. This position requires TSA secret security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Assist the ASM in overseeing the Airport Security Unit to include the Security Credentialing Office, contract management of security services and systems and compliance and enforcement of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Regulations and Security Directives, PA audit requirements, Air Terminal Rules and Chief Security Office's procedures.
• In the absence of the primary Airport Security Coordinator (ASC), this position serves in as the alternate ASC and primary TSA contact.
• Monitor/Inspect cargo handling areas and activities, caterers, and general aviation operators for security compliance and work these parties to close any security gaps in these areas.
• In conjunction with the PA Police Department (PAPD), prepare and manage TSA mandated full scale security exercises and tabletop drills to ensure a well prepared response to security incidents.
• Lead the airport's participation in periodic threat, vulnerability and risk assessments by PA, TSA, etc. Develop or assist in development of risk mitigation measures.
• Assist in preparing and managing the Airport Security Unit budget on an annual basis, which includes the monitoring, tracking and control of security expenditures.
• Assist in strategic planning on all matters involving the Airport Security Program (ASP).
• Coordinate with central office staff to provide input and feedback with regard to PA policies and future airport initiatives.
• Prepare responses and execute corrective measures for audits performed by PA Audits and/or the TSA.
• Serve as a liaison with airport tenants and the TSA relating to physical security, policies and procedures, and operational security systems.
• May review Tenant Security Programs (TSPs). This involves writing amendments to the TSA Federal Security Directors (FSD) and enforcing tenant compliance with the programs.
• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with the TSA, Transportation Security Clearinghouse, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), Port Authority Police Department (PAPD), other federal agencies, airport community and other PA departments for efficient and effective security operations.
• Participate on security industry conference calls regarding physical and operational security systems, security plans and implementation of new TSA Security Directives. Participate and/or lead PA security meetings.
• Review intelligence information daily and disseminate information to key airport employees.
• Assist in airport emergency assignments including snow. Position may require rotating shifts and on call evening and weekend work.
• Review/maintain/develop Operational Performance Reports, Metrics and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the security unit.
• Coordinate with other PA airports to ensure consistent regulatory compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Aviation Management or other related field.
• Three years of experience monitoring of contractor performance.
• Three years of experience supervising staff.
• Must be able to pass a criminal history records check, as mandated by 49 CFR 1542, and meet all requirements necessary to obtain and maintain an Airport Security Identification
• Display Area (SIDA) Badge and airfield driving privileges.

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience managing and administering a budget.
• Three or more years of accumulated aviation security experience at the supervisory level or equivalent to the responsibilities of the position at a commercial service airport.
• Must be able to obtain TSA secret security clearance after hiring.
• Knowledge of and/or ability to learn Port Authority and Aviation operating policies and procedures including those related to contract administration, budgeting, staffing, and contract development.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Transportation Security Administration Security Regulations 49 CFR 1540, 1542, and 1544.
• Knowledge of and/or familiarity with Port Authority Air Terminal Rules and Regulations, especially with regard to security.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to identify problems and develop long-term solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task while providing outstanding customer service.
• Ability to effectively interact with internal and external management and governmental agencies.
• Strong, proven, oral and written communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office software programs, specifically, Excel, Outlook, Word, and Power Point.

Selection Process

The application process varies by position but typically includes an initial phone interview for qualified candidates, followed by a more in-depth interview(s) and/or assessment(s). Selected candidates who are made a conditional job offer will be asked to undergo a background check.

Compensation & Benefits

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey offers a competitive benefits package and a professional environment that supports development and recognizes achievement.

for more information about benefits, our culture, and career development opportunities.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey anticipates that the actual salary offered to a successful candidate will depend on aspects such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal factors. The expected compensation range for this role is:

Minimum: $106,392 Midpoint: $138,297 Maximum: $170,222

In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits employees to work remotely a maximum of one day per week. In person collaboration is essential to how the Port Authority conducts business, and regular in-office days or team collaboration days may be required on business needs.