JWA wants more officers with high school diplomas

The Transportation Security Administration is seeking more part-time security officers to inspect baggage at John Wayne Airport.

The administration, part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, began bolstering its officer ranks after the Sept. 11 attacks and has called for another round of hiring at airports around Southern California.

Spokesman Nico Melendez said the part-time jobs, which pay $14.16 an hour, often appeal to young people who seek to boost their income on the side.

“We’ve had a lot of students that have worked for us, from UCI or Saddleback or Orange Coast [College],” he said. “It’s a great opportunity to offset some of the costs of school.”

The officers’ main job is to inspect passengers and baggage for dangerous objects before flights. Candidates for the job must have a high school diploma, be a U.S. citizen and pass a background check and drug screening. To apply, visit www.tsa.gov and click on “Join Us.”

— Michael Miller