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 Development Engineer

Company: Adobe

Location: San Jose, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

A Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, web design, or a related field. Proficient in visual and web design analysis and application,…

Customer Experience Assistant, Sales

Company: Brilliant Earth

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Proactively respond to online customer inquiries and provide sales assistance through live chats, and phone calls while focusing on a luxury customer experience…

Construction Laborer

Company: Rush Commercial Construction

Location: Seattle, WA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Requires basic carpentry knowledge including: reading tape measures accurately, an understanding of the types of lumber used on various projects, experience…

Jewelry Sales Associate

Company: Brilliant Earth

Location: Palo Alto, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Manage a high volume of incoming sales leads via email, live chat, and phones to attain individual revenue targets, providing a luxury customer experience…

Security Operations Center Analyst

Company: iManage

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 06, 2025

End-user focused experience to investigate security issues and communicate risks clearly with technical and non-technical teams.

Software Engineer (Application & Test Development)

Company: Nintendo

Location: Redmond, WA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Demonstrated ability to communicate complex testing concepts and results effectively to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Managed Service Change Analyst Senior Specialists

Company: FIS Global

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Posted Aug 06, 2025

REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or related field and six (6) years of…

Software Test Engineer (A Group MLB TE 02)

Company: Q-Edge Corporation, Foxconn

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 06, 2025

1.Successful completion of 4-years of high school, or equivalent, plus completion of 4 years of college with a bachelor’s degree, plus attainment of a master’s…

SECURITY GUARD

Company: Temple University Health System

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Prevents or detects and reports fire, theft, vandalism and/or illegal entry. Responsible for the safety and security of the Center's patients, employees and…

Unarmed Security Concierge

Company: QXL Security

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 06, 2025

The ideal candidate must be proficient with, computers, customer service and be able to Monitor CCTV cameras. Monday thru Friday 8am to 4pm, 8 hour shift times…

Customer Experience Assistant, Sales

Company: Brilliant Earth

Location: Seattle, WA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Proactively respond to online customer inquiries and provide sales assistance through live chats, and phone calls while focusing on a luxury customer experience…

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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