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.

Associate Accountant

Company: San Diego Association of Governments

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Participate in financial audits conducted by independent certified public accounting firms; assist with establishing procedures, controls, and policies to…

Analyst, Data Analytics

Company: paypal

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 02, 2025

We enable consumers to exchange funds more safely with merchants using a variety of funding sources, which may include a bank account, a PayPal or Venmo account…

Brand Ambassador

Company: Signature Shield Auto Glass

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Posted Aug 02, 2025

*Transportation:* Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation. *Customer Engagement:* Interact with customers at partner locations, providing information…

Gourmet - Maintenance (Village NYC) Salary Range $16.50 to $16.50/hr

Company: Gourmet Garage

Location: New York, NY

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Coordinate own activities and functions with those of Associates to obtain maximum productivity and efficiency. Clean Associate break and lunch areas.

Overnight Security

Company: Doubletree Phoenix Mesa

Location: Mesa, AZ

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Supporting the front desk with deliveries to guest rooms,. Maintaining the cleanliness of the guest room floors,. Travel Discounts with Hilton and Linchris,.

Sr. Cyber Security Architect (1291)

Company: Hyundai Translead

Location: San Diego, CA

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field. 401K plan with 4% Employer Matching.

Security Officer

Company: Securitas

Location: Des Plaines, IL

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Valid driver's license and clear driving record required. Frequent interactions with client employees and guests. Prior security experience a plus.

Store Lead Associate - West Phoenix

Company: Habitat For Humanity Central Arizona

Location: Phoenix, AZ

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Assist in evaluation of incoming donations for quality and positive donor experience. Must be able to learn and utilize social media platforms for volunteer,…

Security Guard ARMED & UNARMED

Company: Usa Amerika Security LLC

Location: Houston, TX

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Protection of electric power stations, oil installations and water sources. Protection of university and school buildings. Job Types: Full-time, Contract.

Sr Analyst, Data Analytics

Company: paypal

Location: San Jose, CA

Posted Aug 02, 2025

Undergraduate degree in a quantitative (such as Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering or Computer Science) field required and 5+ years related…

Overnight Hotel Security Attendant

Company: AC Hotel

Location: San Jose, CA

Posted Aug 02, 2025

The purpose of a Security Attendant is to ensure the safety of guests and associates and the security of the hotel and property in the hotel’s continuing effort…

Service Operations Manager

Company: Leidos

Location: San Antonio, TX

Posted Aug 02, 2025

This position will support both internal and customer-facing projects involving the growth and sustainment of an enterprise service desk suite of tools…

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