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.

Senior Cloud Solutions Architect *TS/SCI Required

Company: Piper Companies

Location: San Antonio, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Cloud solutions architect, solutions architect, cloud engineer, cloud specialist, cloud administrator, AWS administrator, microservices, AWS, amazon web service…

Security Supervisor

Company: Madison Square Garden Entertainment

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Lead and develop front line colleagues ensuring employees are engaged, upbeat, and capable of delivering exceptional guest experiences in a safe and secure…

Armored Car Crew Leader

Company: Shields Business Solutions

Location: Moorestown, NJ

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Valid driver's license and a good driving record. Earn between $42,000 - $50,000 your first year based on experience and possession of existing license…

Transportation Geotechnical Engineer/Project Manager

Company: ESP Associates

Location: San Antonio, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil engineering, surveying, planning/landscape architecture,…

Transportation Geotechnical Engineer/Project Manager

Company: ESP Associates

Location: Round Rock, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

ESP is a multi-discipline engineering design and consulting firm providing our clients with civil engineering, surveying, planning/landscape architecture,…

Luxury Retail Sales Representative

Company: Aroma360 Retail

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 05, 2025

As a *Luxury Scent Consultant* with us, you’ll play a vital role in driving high-value sales while creating unforgettable customer experiences.

Operations Digital and AI Delivery Analyst

Company: Macquarie Group Limited

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

You will also recommend improvements, evaluate opportunities, and implement solutions (autonomously and with guidance) while influencing the organization as a…

Custom Cabinet Maker/Installer

Company: ClassicWorks

Location: Torrance, CA

Posted Aug 05, 2025

MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE I WONT HIRE ANYONE WILL NO EXPERIENCE. Must have an understanding of basic english.

Transportation Geotechnical Engineer/Project Manager

Company: ESP Associates

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 05, 2025

Candidate must be able to pass a drug screen, background check, and have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the company’s driving (MVR) policy.

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.

Related Pages