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.

Heating & Air Conditioning Technician

Company: Los Angeles Community College District

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

A valid Class "C" California driver's license may be required for some positions. Attends to trouble calls for emergency repairs to heating units, refrigeration…

Unarmed Security Guard - Overnights Only

Company: Obsidian Solutions Services

Location: Tempe, AZ

Posted Aug 04, 2025

The ideal candidate will have excellent observation skills, a strong sense of responsibility, and the ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations.

Commercial Electrician (Apprentice and Journeyman)

Company: Enterprise Electrical

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 04, 2025

We are seeking a skilled *Commercial Electrician* to install, maintain, and repair electrical systems in commercial construction environments.

Pharmacist

Company: Heart Hospital of Austin

Location: Austin, TX

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Current Pharmacist license with Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP). Education assistance (tuition, student loan, certification support, dependent scholarships…

Security Guard - Museum - Long Island City - Queens

Company: Allied Universal

Location: Astoria, NY

Posted Aug 04, 2025

A valid driver's license will be required for driving positions only. As a condition of employment, applicants will be subject to a background investigation in…

Dispatch Security Officer

Company: Inter-Con Security Systems

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Screening incoming calls from officers, public, media, and other associated agencies and taking appropriate action. Receiving and handling emergency calls.

Commercial Estimator/Project Manager (FENCING)

Company: Superior Fence and Rail

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Superior Fence & Rail is the largest fence contractor in the country, with over seventeen branch locations in five states. Company Vehicle w/ gas card.

Developer Full Stack

Company: JetBlue Airways Corporation

Location: Long Island City, NY

Posted Aug 04, 2025

Develop, design, code, debug and document web and mobile web interface applications in a variety of front-end software languages (e.g., Strong JavaScript and…

Registered Nurse II - Cancer Center Infusion

Company: Houston Methodist Hospital

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 04, 2025

RN - Registered Nurse - Texas State Licensure - Compact Licensure - Must obtain permanent Texas license within 60 days (if establishing Texas residency) AND.

Security Guard - Educational Facility - Bronx

Company: Allied Universal

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 04, 2025

A valid driver's license will be required for driving positions only. As a condition of employment, applicants will be subject to a background investigation in…

Security Guard - Education Patrols Part-Time

Company: Allied Universal

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Posted Aug 04, 2025

A valid driver's license will be required for driving positions only. As a condition of employment, applicants will be subject to a background investigation in…

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