AI summary
Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) at TSA screen passengers and property, operate checkpoint screening technology, and make real-time safety decisions in a busy airport environment. This is an onsite federal security role with shift work, and it stands out for paid training plus strong federal benefits (health, retirement, PTO).
Key skills
Passenger and baggage screeningOperating X-ray/screening technologyPat-downs and bag/property searchesAttention to detail and object recognitionFollowing TSA procedures and protocolsCustomer service and communicationWorking in high-pressure, high-noise environmentsPhysical ability to lift up to 50 lbsPassing TSA CBT/TAB computer-based testU.S. citizenship eligibility requirements
Pays $40,332–$91,767 USD, varying by shift/location with potential overtime and premium pay.
You'll thrive here if you stay calm under pressure, follow procedures precisely, and can balance security vigilance with courteous customer service during shift work.
Why apply
- Paid training provided
- Federal benefits and retirement match
- Overtime and premium pay options
Explore Career Opportunities as a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) with TSA TSA is hiring Transportation Security Officers across the United States. TSOs are the face of the agency, the people on the front lines who play an important role at TSA. TSOs are responsible for screening travelers and property while keeping the experience courteous and professional. TSA offers paid training to prepare you for success, regardless of your experience level.
Position Details Openings: Nationwide
Pay: $40,332 - $91,767
Schedule: Shift work set by the airport (may include nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, extended shifts, and split shifts)
Remote/Telework: Not available
Relocation: Not provided
Drug Test: Yes (including random testing after hire)
Perks and Benefits Paid Time Off : Annual leave + sick leave, plus paid federal holidays
Health Coverage : Medical, dental, and vision (plus life insurance options)
Retirement : Federal retirement plan + TSP (401k-style) with up to 5% match
Extra Pay : Overtime and premium pay for nights, Sundays, and holidays (varies by shift/location)
Career Growth : Paid training and opportunities to move up or transfer to other airports
Role Overview As a TSO, you’ll screen passengers and property, operate screening technology, and make real-time decisions to spot and stop prohibited or dangerous items.
What You’ll Do Operate screening equipment and technology to identify dangerous objects in baggage, cargo, and on passengers
Conduct screening and searches, which may include pat-downs and bag/property searches
Lift/carry bins, bags, and property up to 50 lbs
Control terminal entry/exit points
Give directions and respond to traveler questions
Stay focused in a high-noise, high-pressure environment (alarms, crowds, time pressure, and sometimes disruptive or angry passengers)
Follow TSA procedures and adapt to new protocols as they change
Minimum Qualifications (Meet One) Education: High school diploma or equivalent (GED/HiSET/TASC)
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