Transportation Security Officers Jobs

553,464 open positions · Updated daily

The transportation sector is ramping up security in response to evolving threats, making Transportation Security Officer (TSO) positions more critical than ever. Airports, rail terminals, ports, and new high-speed transit lines now hire TSOs to monitor passenger flow, enforce TSA regulations, and deploy advanced screening tools. Demand spikes during major events, and the federal government’s "Secure Transportation Initiative" has increased staffing budgets across all modes of travel. As a result, 3,263 openings illustrate a robust market that rewards expertise and adaptability.

TSOs work in several settings: airport security checkpoints, train stations, freight ports, and maritime terminals. Core duties include passenger ID verification, X‑ray and physical pat‑down inspections, and real‑time threat detection using TSA PAT scanners, biometric facial‑recognition software, and explosive‑trace detection (ETD) kits. In aviation, TSOs also coordinate with TSA’s Flight Security Program, monitoring aircraft boarding and handling contraband. Across all modes, they gather incident reports, maintain compliance with the Transportation Security Administration’s SOPs, and respond to emergency protocols.

Transparent salary data lets TSOs compare earned wages against market averages, spot pay gaps across regions, and negotiate offers with confidence. Knowing the exact pay range for a "Senior TSO" versus a "Entry‑Level TSO" helps agents target roles that fit their experience and financial goals. Salary visibility also encourages employers to align compensation with the level of responsibility and risk inherent in each position, fostering fair and competitive pay structures.

Welder

Company: Skilled Trades Partners

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. The ideal candidate will be skilled in various welding techniques and capable of reading blueprints and…

Carpenter

Company: Skilled Trades Partners

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. Operate hand tools, power tools, and woodworking machinery safely. Pay $25-30 an hour.

Software Engineer

Company: Crescent Systems, Inc.

Location: Richardson, TX

Posted Aug 11, 2025

The Software Systems Engineer will design, develop, and deliver complex state-of-the-art systems across a variety of engineering disciplines for defense…

Security Officer - Cleared (Clearance Eligible)

Company: Allied Universal

Location: Redondo Beach, CA

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Greet guests and employees and escorts visitors and contractors to secure entry and exit points. As a Cleared Security Officer, you'll receive specialized…

DevSecOps Engineer - COBRA

Company: HII

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 11, 2025

9 years relevant experience with Bachelors in related field; 7 years relevant experience with Masters in related field; 4 years relevant experience with PhD or…

Azure Cloud Engineer

Company: Flex Employee Services

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Architect and design cloud solutions on Microsoft Azure, ensuring scalability, reliability and cost effectiveness while considering operational concerns and non…

Plumber

Company: University of Pennsylvania

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Have valid driver’s license, free of any suspension or revocation, from the individual’s state of permanent residency. High School Diploma or GED.

Construction Laborer

Company: Skilled Trades Partners

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Operate basic hand tools and power tools safely. Ability to operate basic hand and power tools. Knowledge of construction safety practices.

Catering Sales Manager

Company: Confidential

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Maintain a valid driver’s license. Sales Manger is responsible for driving and developing catering sales opportunities. Involved in menu design and pricing.

Statistician - School of Public Health

Company: UTHealth Houston

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 11, 2025

Bachelor's Degree in related field required. Other employee discounts including entertainment, car rentals, cell phones, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are typical salary ranges by seniority for Transportation Security Officers?
Entry‑level TSOs earn $30,000–$38,000 annually; mid‑level TSOs with 5–10 years experience earn $38,000–$50,000; senior TSOs and supervisory roles earn $50,000–$65,000; lead or TSA supervisory positions can exceed $70,000 depending on location and overtime.
Which skills and certifications are required for a Transportation Security Officer?
TSOs must pass TSA background checks, complete the TSA Transportation Security Officer training, obtain a TSA Security Clearance, and be proficient in PAT scanner operation, explosive‑trace detection, and passenger ID verification. Rail and maritime TSOs may also need IBRE or Maritime Security Program certifications.
Is remote work possible for Transportation Security Officers?
TSO roles are inherently on‑site, but some agencies offer hybrid shifts that allow remote administrative reporting, incident analysis, or training management. Day‑to‑day security screening duties cannot be performed remotely.
What career progression paths exist for Transportation Security Officers?
TSOs can advance to Senior TSO, Team Lead, TSA Security Supervisor, or TSA Threat Management Officer. With experience, they may transition into security consulting, program management, or federal policy analysis roles within the TSA or Department of Homeland Security.
What industry trends are shaping the future of Transportation Security Officers?
The industry is moving toward AI‑powered screening, drone‑based perimeter monitoring, and biometric boarding systems. TSA’s "Smart Gate" initiative and the increasing use of TSA‑approved contactless ID verification are reshaping TSO workflows. Automation of routine checks is increasing, pushing TSOs to focus on high‑risk threat detection and incident response.

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