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.

General Laborers & Skilled Trades - Immediate openings available

Company: Pier solutions

Location: National City, CA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Operate hand tools and power tools safely and effectively. Candidates who already possess DBIDS (Defense Biometric Identification System) are qualified to…

Certified Electrician

Company: HEFFLER CONTRACTING GROUP

Location: El Cajon, CA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Heffler Contracting Group* an established Federal General Contractor seeking full time Journeyman Electricians Candidates must be state certified or licensed…

Unarmed Security Officer for High End Hotels and Residentials

Company: Doyle Security Services

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Preserves order and may act to enforce regulations and directives for the site pertaining to personnel, visitors, and premises. High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Unarmed Security Officer for Educational Institution in Brooklyn UNION

Company: Doyle Security Services

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Provide a safe secure environment for students, staff and guests inside the school. Preserves order and may act to enforce regulations and directives for the…

Security Guard

Company: Nationwide Investigations & Security, Inc.

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Valid Driver's License and social security card. Military and/or extensive security background. Detecting suspicious activity and threats to property or people.

Customer Service Representative/ Collector

Company: Atlas Credit Co.

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Must have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a reliable vehicle for fieldwork. Manage incoming and outgoing calls to ensure timely communication.

Close Protection Specialist – On-Call Assignments

Company: Flanagan Security & Investigations Group

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Familiarity with high-profile clientele and VIP protocols. Valid security licenses (if required by jurisdiction). Former law enforcement or military background.

Senior AWS Database Administrator

Company: The Panther Group

Location: United States

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Collaborate with engineering teams on schema design, migrations, and scalability efforts. Monitor performance, analyze slow queries, and implement tuning…

Statistical Programmer I

Company: Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Location: Seattle, WA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

The JSB Lab is seeking a Statistical Programmer I to supports the team’s mission of developing robust computational tools that enable biological discoveries…

Registered Nurse Day Surgery

Company: UT Southwestern

Location: Dallas, TX

Posted Aug 04, 2025

(NLC) NURSING LICENSURE COMPACT-BNE current Texas (or BNE Compact State) license, and. Graduate of an approved/accredited nursing program either by a…

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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