Airport Search Unit Officer

Role overview

Join Dublin Airport’s security operation as an Airport Search Unit (ASU) Officer, supporting a customer-focused team in one of Ireland’s busiest travel environments. The role combines aviation security work with strong service, communication, and judgement skills. It is based mainly indoors, though some future opportunities may involve outdoor duties at vehicle checkpoints.

This is a shift-based position on a 24/7 roster. The job suits people beginning their careers, returning to work, or bringing prior experience from other fields. No previous security background is needed, as full training is provided.

Compensation and working pattern

The pay rate for this position is €19.80 per hour. The role is permanent and comes with access to a company pension scheme. The contract is for 35 to 40 hours per week: a minimum of 35 hours is guaranteed, and availability for up to 40 hours across a round-the-clock roster is required.

Working hours may include nights, weekends, early mornings, and public holidays.

Benefits and support

• Pension, death in service, and income protection schemes
• Wellbeing support, including complimentary flu vaccines, health clinics, an employee assistance programme, Focus on You wellbeing services, and access to an on-site gym and swimming pool in ALSAA
• Discounted health cover
• Paid induction and training programme, with ongoing assessment and examinations for IAA certification
• Flight subsidy
• Ongoing learning and development with strong internal career progression opportunities
• Subsidised staff meals plus free coffee, tea, and water in breakrooms
• Free parking during working hours and staff shuttle bus access
• Uniform and safety shoes supplied on joining, along with a welcome pack
• Travel Tax Saver Scheme and Bike to Work Scheme
• Staff discount at Duty Free, including 10% off purchases, plus regular employee discounts across Dublin Airport and the wider campus
• daa Charity of the Year activities, events, and social initiatives

Key responsibilities

• Screen passengers, airport staff, baggage, and vehicles
• Use a variety of security screening systems and equipment
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with passengers
• Manage queues and help keep passenger movement efficient
• Stay alert to security procedures and escalate any concerns
• Follow health and safety standard operating procedures
• Control entry to restricted areas
• Comply with all health and safety requirements
• Support response efforts during airport emergencies or unexpected incidents
• Carry out other reasonable duties as assigned

Requirements and qualifications

• Must have the legal right to live and work in Ireland
• English must be fluent, both spoken and written
• Willingness to work a 24/7 roster, including nights, weekends, early starts, and public holidays
• Ability to meet and continue meeting Irish Aviation Authority certification standards
• Strong customer service and people skills
• Professional, calm, and courteous approach
• Comfort with a busy, high-traffic environment, especially during seasonal peaks
• Basic computer skills
• Minimum education level of Leaving Certificate or an equivalent qualification
• Must complete an aptitude assessment
• Must pass a 5-year background check, including a criminal background check/Garda Vetting
• Must pass a medical evaluation
• Must satisfy all requirements needed to obtain an Airport Identity Card

About the employer

daa operates across four continents and employs more than 3,000 people. The organisation works in a fast-moving, energetic, and diverse environment, with opportunities spanning IT, finance, technical functions, airport operations, regulation, planning, commercial, marketing, frontline security, and customer-facing roles.

About Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport is Ireland’s main international gateway and handled more than 28 million passengers in 2022. The airport is also investing heavily over the coming years, which is expected to create further opportunities across a wide range of roles as its future develops.