Transportation Security Officers Jobs

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Transportation Security Officers are at the frontline of safeguarding passengers across airports, rail stations, and maritime hubs. With the expansion of high‑speed rail networks, the introduction of biometric boarding gates, and TSA’s latest threat‑detection mandates, agencies are hiring more officers than ever. The industry also values tech‑savvy staff who can operate advanced screening equipment like X‑ray analyzers, explosive trace detection (ETD) systems, and automated passenger‑flow analytics. This surge in demand means more job openings, competitive pay, and a clear path into specialized security domains.

Within the Transportation Security Officer category, positions range from Ground Screening Officer to Advanced Threat Analyst, Patrol Officer, and Training Specialist. Ground Screening Officers conduct manual and automated screening of luggage and passengers, using X‑ray, CT scanners, and ETD kits. Patrol Officers monitor terminals for suspicious activity, employ laser‑based detection tools, and enforce TSA regulations. Advanced Threat Analysts evaluate threat intelligence feeds, calibrate predictive software, and coordinate with law‑enforcement partners. Training Specialists design curricula that cover TSA compliance, emergency response, and the latest security technologies.

Salary transparency is crucial for Transportation Security Officers because pay varies widely by jurisdiction, seniority, and specialty. Knowing the exact figures for entry‑level ETD technicians versus senior patrol supervisors helps officers negotiate fair wages, plan career moves, and assess opportunities across airports, rail terminals, and corporate security teams. Transparent data also levels the playing field for candidates who traditionally lack insider knowledge of TSA salary scales.

Armed Waterborne Security Officers – Full-Time

Company: Six Maritime

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Meet all state/local licensing requirements before employment. Ability to pass a background check in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.

Carpenter

Company: University of Washington

Location: Seattle, WA

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Possession of a valid Washington State driver’s license is required . Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license may be required .

Proximity Marketing Director

Company: Showroom Windows & Doors

Location: San Antonio, TX

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required. You'll recruit, train, and manage a growing team of field marketers while also serving as a player-…

Security Officer - Critical Infrastructure

Company: Inter-Con Security Systems

Location: Lemon Grove, CA

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Ensure all guests, employees, and contractors are treated with respect. Greet and log all tenants, visitors, and contractors entering the premises.

HVAC-R Service Technician, Diesel Mechanic

Company: Thermo King Michigan

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Valid driver’s license & reliable transportation. Ability or willingness to drive a Class 8 truck (Chauffeur license & DOT physical required).

Security Supervisor- Warehouse Response

Company: GardaWorld Security Services U.S.

Location: Goodyear, AZ

Posted Aug 25, 2025

A comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, a 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions,…

AI/ML Engineer (Clearance Required)

Company: Lockheed Martin

Location: King of Prussia, PA

Posted Aug 25, 2025

(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental…

Security Officer

Company: Protection Security Group LLC

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Responsible for becoming familiar with incoming and outgoing traffic, know the customers staff visitors, and guests. Card Valid NYS Security Guard License.

Security Officer - Critical Infrastructure

Company: Inter-Con Security Systems

Location: La Mesa, CA

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Access control of all entries by employees, vendors, contractors, visitors, etc. Graduate of a Police or Corrections Academy (must be POST certified), and one (…

Flex Unarmed Security Officer

Company: Avail Security Group

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Just have valid DL and Security Experience. Responding to incidents on property. Locking and unlocking gates at opening and closing.

Unarmed Security Officer - Gate Guard near Bush Airport

Company: Guards On Call

Location: Humble, TX

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Assist with license renewals and uniforms. The airport will run their own background check. (Basic Plus certification is a plus). Be able to start right away.

Cyber Software Engineer (Embedded)

Company: Lockheed Martin

Location: Grand Prairie, TX

Posted Aug 25, 2025

Software analysis, code analysis, requirements analysis, software review, interface design. Supporting a broad range of challenges in a dynamic team environment…

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical salary ranges for Transportation Security Officers at different seniority levels?
Entry‑level officers earn between $35,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on airport size and state bonuses. Mid‑level officers, such as those with 2–5 years of experience or who manage ETD teams, typically receive $45,000 to $60,000. Senior officers—often 5+ years, supervising patrol shifts or coordinating with federal agencies—can earn $60,000 to $80,000 or more, especially at major hubs like JFK or LAX.
What skills and certifications are required to become a Transportation Security Officer?
Candidates must complete the TSA Security Officer training program and obtain the TSA Security Officer certification (TSA‑112). Additional certifications that boost employability include Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) certification, Advanced Threat Analysis (ATA) credentials, and first‑aid/CPR. Core skills include threat‑detection proficiency, knowledge of hazardous materials regulations, biometric screening, strong communication, and the ability to operate X‑ray and CT scanners.
Is remote work available for Transportation Security Officer positions?
While most Transportation Security Officer roles require on‑site presence at airports, rail terminals, or maritime facilities, certain positions such as Threat Intelligence Analysts, Training Coordinators, and compliance audit specialists can work remotely. These roles typically use secure VPNs to access TSA databases, conduct virtual training sessions, and analyze threat feeds.
What career progression paths exist for Transportation Security Officers?
A typical path starts as a Ground Screening Officer, advances to Senior Officer overseeing shifts, then to Patrol Officer or Threat Analyst roles. From there, officers may move into supervisory positions—Security Manager or TSA Officer—managing multiple terminals. Long‑term careers can lead to managerial roles within TSA’s National Security Division, corporate security leadership at airlines, or consulting positions with private security firms.
What industry trends are shaping the future of Transportation Security Officers?
Key trends include the integration of AI‑driven threat detection that analyzes passenger behavior patterns in real time, the deployment of drone surveillance for perimeter security, and the adoption of contactless biometric boarding to reduce queue times. TSA’s new regulations on high‑speed rail security and the push for unified data platforms across transportation modes are also creating new specialty roles for officers skilled in data analytics and cross‑agency coordination.

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