Airport Security Specialist ( Screening | Entry 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)

• 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.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for long periods of time.

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.

This is not a job offer from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This post promotes a third‑party resource that helps applicants prepare for TSA job applications. TSA does not charge to apply. Applicants must pass required assessments and successfully complete the multi‑step hiring process.