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.

Software Engineer .NET

Company: PetSmart

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 07, 2025

And business teams to design and develop solutions based on business requirements. Responsible for developing customized technical solutions in .

Evening Cleaner in Austin, TX (Wells Branch)

Company: Corporate Cleaning Group

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Tidying up lab areas, wiping down countertops and equipment, and making sure everything is sanitized. Flexibility is a must: Since this is a 24/7 lab, you must…

Software Development Engineer

Company: Expedia Group

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Apply software design principles, data structures and/or design patterns and computer science fundamentals to write code that is clean, maintainable, optimized,…

Principal Cloud Architect

Company: IQVIA

Location: Wayne, PA

Posted Aug 07, 2025

They define and maintain IQVIA architecture standards and reference architectures, build reference implementations and provide guidance to engineering teams…

Trading IT Business Analyst

Company: Uniper

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Actively identify, report, promote, own and implement system improvement ideas. The candidate will play a key role in supporting the Trading business users, be…

Japanese Cuisine Sous Chef

Company: Gategroup

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks;…

Part-Time Evening Cleaner in Austin (Menchaca Rd & Berkeley Ave)

Company: Corporate Cleaning Group

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Cleaning all areas of restrooms. Restocking paper products and soap dispensers. No experience necessary-training on the job provided.

Electrical Superintendent

Company: Canyon State Electric

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Journeyman Electrician license or equivalent certification *preferred. We are seeking a dedicated and experienced full-time Superintendent to oversee field…

Security Project Manager (Houston)

Company: Network Cabling Services

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 07, 2025

Current, valid driver’s license. Possession of recognized industry related certification is preferred. Participate with Human Resources in Disciplinary Process…

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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