Public Safety Officer I (PSO I)
About Avports LLC
Avports is the original airport management services provider and the leading U.S.‑based, full‑service airport management company. With more than 90 years of aviation experience, Avports delivers comprehensive airport operations, public safety, and infrastructure management solutions across commercial and general aviation airports nationwide. Our long-standing partnerships at industry‑leading airports reflect a commitment to safety, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder value.
MidAmerica St. Louis Airport, located at 9656 Air Terminal Drive, Mascoutah, IL 62258 is currently considered a “primary non-hub” airport. Publicly owned airports receiving scheduled passenger service that have more than 10,000 passenger boardings—also known as enplanements—each year are considered primary airports. https://flymidamerica.com/business/history/#
Job Summary
The Public Safety Officer I (PSO I) is a frontline, non‑supervisory public safety professional responsible for supporting airport operations, life‑safety, and security functions in a 24/7 operational environment. Working under the direction of airport public safety leadership, the PSO I monitor critical systems, responds to emergent situations, supports regulatory compliance, and helps maintain a safe and secure airport environment for employees, tenants, passengers, and the public.
Successful candidates possess strong situational awareness, the ability to remain calm under pressure, and the capability to follow established procedures while exercising sound judgment during routine operations and emergency incidents. Requires compliance with federal, state, and local aviation safety and security regulations, including TSA and FAR requirements.
Regular, full-time essential services position reports to the Airport Operations Supervisor / ARFF Captain and classified as a public safety operational role requiring shift work. Mandatory background screening, ongoing training eligibility, and onsite presence at the airport required.
Essential Job Functions
- Perform duties associated with the Airport Operations Center (AOC), terminal operations, and airport public safety activities.
- Monitor and operate multi‑line telephone systems, dispatch radios, fire alarm panels, and CCTV surveillance systems.
- Maintain continuous situational awareness to detect, report, and respond to safety, security, and life‑safety hazards.
- Assist and participate in airport operations, security support, and emergency response activities under the direction of public safety leadership.
- Control and monitor vehicular and pedestrian access to the Air Operations Area (AOA), including conducting vehicle inspections as required.
- Maintain surveillance of terminals, buildings, and airport facilities to support general security and airline operations.
- Accurately prepare and maintain daily operational logs, incident reports, and required documentation.
- Support the issuance and documentation of Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) based on established airport procedures.
- Perform delivery inspections and equipment checks as required.
- Maintain assigned tools and equipment in proper working conditions.
- Demonstrate professionalism and composure during high‑stress incidents involving life‑safety concerns.
- Perform other related duties as assigned to support airport operations and business objectives.
Level of Authority: Individual contributor operating within established procedures and regulatory frameworks.
Core Competencies
- Accountability and ownership in performing assigned duties
- Strong attention to detail and adherence to procedures
- Calm, professional demeanor under stress
- Effective communication and teamwork
- Integrity, ethics, and regulatory compliance
- Situational awareness and sound judgment
- Ability to follow instructions and escalate issues appropriately
- Collaboration with cross‑functional airport stakeholders
Required Skills & Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent
- No prior airport experience required; training provided
Licenses, Certifications & Eligibility
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Valid motor vehicle operator’s license required
- Must pass TSA background screening and security clearance
- Ability to obtain and maintain CPR and AED certification
- Must meet TSA 1542, FAR Part 139, and airport training requirements
- Felony DUI conviction is disqualifying
Technical & Functional Skills
- Ability to understand and carry out written and verbal instructions
- Ability to maintain order during routine operations and emergencies
- Proficiency in monitoring systems and documenting activities accurately
- Strong observational and hazard‑recognition skills
Work Authorization & Travel Requirements
- Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
- Infrequent U.S. domestic travel may be required
- Must comply with airport badging, access, and security requirements
Work Environment, Physical & Cognitive Demands
Physical Requirements
- Regularly required to stand, walk, climb, stoop, kneel, crouch, and reach
- Regular lifting and movement of objects exceeding 75 pounds
- Vision requirements include distance, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment
- Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Cognitive & Behavioral Requirements
- High attention to detail and focus on quality
- Ability to operate with integrity and professionalism
- Emotional intelligence and interpersonal awareness
- Ability to manage stress and work with limited resources
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
Applies to all team members, including those represented by a labor union or bargaining unit. If any part conflicts with a collective bargaining agreement (CBA), the CBA will take precedence.
The Company complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as amended by the ADA Amendments Act, and all applicable state or local law. Consistent with those requirements, the Company. will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with a disability if such accommodation would allow the individual to perform the essential functions of the job, unless doing so would create an undue hardship. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
Compensation & Benefits Overview
Benefits may include:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
- Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
- Short‑ and Long‑Term Disability Insurance
- Life and AD&D Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- Professional development opportunities