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.

Security Guard - TWIC Seasonal

Company: GardaWorld Security Services US

Location: Carson, CA

Posted Aug 05, 2025

You have a state security license (*BSIS Guard Card*) and additional 32 hrs. security trainings. Control access to secure areas and verify the identities of…

Membership Analyst

Company: SEIU Local 721

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Salary range as of September 1, 2024 $86,068.74 (entry) - $91,392.57 (10+ years). Conduct root cause analysis to identify systemic (organizational, processes,…

Analyst (Multi-Family Housing Bonds)

Company: Los Angeles County Development Authority

Location: Alhambra, CA

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Prepares program and project scope, descriptions, and implementation plans; assesses feasibility of program and project implementation and impact to Authority…

Cloud Engineer I - Gen AI

Company: GM Financial

Location: Irving, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Willingness and ability to take a “code first” approach to fully automate the deployment and management of cloud infrastructure and environments using Terraform…

Retail Pharmacist Per Diem

Company: Optum

Location: Pearland, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Adherence to federal and state Pharmacy laws. May serve as the Pharmacist in charge for licensing agreements. Expense, security), maintain logs, complete daily…

Project Coordinator

Company: Top Tempo Technical

Location: Pasadena, CA

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Manage customer and project communications. Establish, build, and maintain relationships and oversee meetings with elected officials, government agencies, CBOs,…

Event Chef (Part-Time)

Company: Puff 'N Stuff Catering

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Minimum 3 months catering or cooking experience at a full-service restaurant or hotel. Be prepared to work in all types of weather - events can be indoors and…

Senior OpenText (OT) Documentum Architect

Company: The Norland Group

Location: Downey, CA

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Three (3) years of experience in developing, modifying, supporting, and remediating/upgrading OpenText Documentum applications in RHEL Shared environment;…

Semi-skilled Laborer

Company: City of Houston, TX

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

A valid Texas Class C driver's license and compliance with the City of Houston's policy on driving (AP 2-2). This role may also involve driving vehicles to and…

Matter-Framer

Company: The Museum of Modern Art

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Complete understanding of and working competence with all standard frame shop tools and equipment, including mat-cutters, table saws, specialty glues and…

Armed Security

Company: Cascadia Global Security

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Free of tickets, accidents, or marks against your drivers license. Patrols are assigned in a company-marked vehicle provided the candidates' driving history is…

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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