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.

C# Engineer

Company: BlackRock Investments

Location: Chicago, IL

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Participate in cross-functional feature requirements gathering, design, and implementation. You will collaborate with experienced engineers to develop and…

Senior Architectural Project Manager - Airport Capital Improvement Program

Company: MARRS Services, Inc.

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Valid California Class C driver's license. *Licensed Architect (California license preferred)*. This position requires working at San Diego International…

Class A Dedicated Local Truck Driver - 3 Months Experience Required

Company: C.R. England

Location: Tempe, AZ

Posted Aug 06, 2025

On this fleet drivers average 10-12 hours a day. Looking for drivers for an early 3AM-4AM start schedule. Valid CDL-A plus 3+ months of Class A CDL experience…

Bench Carpenter

Company: ABM Industries

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Utilize various carpenter hand tools, portable power tools, and standard measuring instruments. Proven experience in carpentry or related field.

Software Engineer, Embedded Linux

Company: TrellisWare Technologies

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science or related field of study required. Experience with Object-oriented design, data link…

Senior Software Engineer, Applications

Company: TrellisWare Technologies

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Documenting and presenting design alternatives using good personal practices and corporate defined engineering processes. NET, and Visual Studio is required.

Journeyman Plumber

Company: PeopleReady

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Utilizing hand tools and cutters to cut pipe to desired lengths and electric and hand threaders to thread pipe. Must have Tools of the Trade.

ARMED SECURITY OFFICER - DALLAS, TX - START TODAY

Company: American Security Force Inc

Location: Dallas, TX

Posted Aug 06, 2025

Each one of our job sites require security officers to perform some or all of the following essential duties, responsibilities, functions, and may require some…

Product Security Analyst (Mid-Senior)

Company: Boeing

Location: Seattle, WA

Posted Aug 06, 2025

You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary, enterprise-wide Product Security community to develop and implement best practices, tools, and solutions that…

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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