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.

Residential Construction General Laborer

Company: Home by Molly Marino and CZ Construction Group

Location: La Grange, IL

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license. Perform rough and finish carpentry including *framing, trim work, door installation, window installation…

Cabinet Maker/ Installer

Company: Employnet

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Operate shop equipment including table saws, chop saws, and other woodworking tools. Must have basic tools and reliable transportation.

Director, Operations Audit

Company: Teacher Retirement System of Texas

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Master’s degree in business administration, public administration, or a related field. Texas state government program policies, procedures, regulations, and…

Cyber Security Analyst - Tier 3

Company: BigHire

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 06, 2025

*Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience) – Must have.*.

Trim Carpenter (1099)

Company: Penmarc Inspired Spaces

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Bring their own tools and reliable transportation for transporting materials to job sites. Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, reciprocating and miter…

Cyber Security Analyst - Tier 3

Company: BigHire

Location: Hines, IL

Posted Aug 06, 2025

*Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent work experience) – Must have.*.

Entry Level Customer Service Representative - Days/Nights/Weekends

Company: Peckham

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) in this position will answer phone calls from U.S. citizens and utilize a computer-based knowledge system to answer…

Security Guard - Level II Certification -187 days

Company: Katy Independent School District

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Previous experience as a security guard preferred. Maintain emotional control and professionalism under stress; prolonged standing; strenuous walking and…

PAINTER

Company: Cook County Health & Hospitals System

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 06, 2025

A copy of a valid State ID Card or Driver’s License which identifies the holder of the ID as a Veteran, may also be attached to the application at time of…

Bilingual Entry Level Customer Service Representative (Spanish) - Days/Nights/Weekends

Company: Peckham

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) in this position will answer phone calls from U.S. citizens and utilize a computer-based knowledge system to answer…

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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