Transportation Security Officer; TSO

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)

• 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

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.

• 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

• Education:
  
  High school diploma or equivalent (GED/HiSET/TASC)
• Experience:
  
  1 year full‑time experience in the security industry, aviation screening, or as an X‑ray technician (Paid, unpaid, and volunteer experience may be credited. Part‑time experience is credited proportionally)

• U.S. Citizen or U.S. National
• At least 18 years old at the time of application
• Must pass the TSA CBT exam
• You may need to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long periods of time.

If you meet minimum qualifications, all candidates are required to take the TSA computer‑based test (TAB CBT). It’s a timed exam testing your attention to detail, X‑ray/object recognition, and reading comprehension. Passing drastically increases your chances to be hired.