Transportation Security Officer

Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) provide security and protection of air travelers, airports, and aircraft with courtesy and professionalism. TSOs are responsible for screening passengers, baggage, and cargo to prevent hazardous objects from being transported onto aircraft. They may also secure high‑profile events, important figures, and other transportation‑related activities.

• Pay range: $73,809 – $91,767 per year (36.57% – 43.97% locality pay, 3% COLA).
• Retention incentive: 40% of adjusted pay.
• Sign‑on bonus: up to $10,000, paid in two installments during the first 12 months.

• Operate screening equipment to identify dangerous objects in baggage, cargo, and passengers.
• Conduct physical searches of passengers (pat‑downs, bag searches, lifting/carrying bags up to 50 lbs).
• Control terminal entry and exit points.
• Interact with the public, provide directions, and respond to inquiries.
• Maintain focus in a noisy, stressful environment while making effective decisions.
• Develop critical thinking skills to evaluate security threats.
• Apply Standard Operating Procedures reliably and adapt to new information.

• Squat and bend repeatedly.
• Lift and manipulate baggage and containers weighing approximately 50 lbs.
• Walk up to 3 miles during a shift and stand for up to 4 hours.

• Citizenship: U.S. citizen or national.
• Age: Minimum 18 years.
• Selectivity: Selective Service registration required.
• Structured interview, drug screening, medical evaluation, and background investigation.
• Random drug and alcohol testing post‑employment.
• Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking).
• Willingness to work various shifts, overtime, and facilitate mandatory travel for training.
• Agreed to wear TSA‑approved Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• At least one year of full‑time experience in security, aviation screening, or X‑ray technology; or
• High school diploma, GED, HiSET, or TASC equivalency.

• Occasional travel: minimum 3 weeks for new‑hire training; up to 6 weeks in some duty locations.
• Full‑time required 40 hrs/wk; shift work may include irregular hours, nights, holidays, and weekend shifts.

• Health, dental, vision, life, long‑term care insurance.
• Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan.
• Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, and paid federal holidays.
• Telework and tuition reimbursement options.

Transportation Security Administration is an Equal Opportunity Employer. TSA may apply a sex‑specific hiring preference to meet Security mission and same‑sex pat‑down job‑related requirements.

the TSA career website and submit the required documents. TSA will share your application with DHS for similar positions. TSA does not pay relocation or pre‑employment travel expenses.