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Behavior Detection Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hospital Security Officer

Newport, VT ยท On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Our security officers act as a visible deterrent to crime and client rule infractions; they detect ... Managing aggressive behavior * Assisting law enforcement officers on site * Protecting hospital ...

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Behavior Detection Officer information

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$25

$68

How much do behavior detection officer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for behavior detection officer in the United States is $25.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What type of security jobs pay the most?

Behavior Detection Officers typically earn moderate to high salaries depending on experience, location, and employer. Higher-paying security roles include executive protection, cybersecurity security analysts, and security managers, which often require specialized skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Behavior Detection Officer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Behavior Detection Officer, you need keen observational abilities, strong analytical thinking, and a solid understanding of behavioral science, often supported by specialized law enforcement or security training. Familiarity with surveillance systems, industry-specific detection protocols, and relevant certifications such as those provided by the Department of Homeland Security can be essential. Exceptional communication, discretion, and situational awareness help individuals excel in this position. These skills are crucial for accurately identifying potential threats and ensuring public safety in dynamic, high-stakes environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Behavior Detection Officer?

Behavior Detection Officers are primarily responsible for monitoring individuals in public settings, such as airports or transportation hubs, to identify suspicious behaviors or potential security threats. Their day often includes patrolling assigned areas, conducting interviews or brief behavioral assessments, and coordinating closely with security teams and law enforcement agencies. Officers also document observations, participate in ongoing training, and respond to incidents as needed. This role requires a high level of vigilance, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm and professional under pressure, making it both challenging and rewarding for those committed to public safety.

What is a Behavior Detection Officer job?

A Behavior Detection Officer (BDO) is a security professional responsible for identifying potentially suspicious or threatening behavior in public areas, such as airports or transportation hubs. They use behavioral analysis techniques to assess individuals for signs of stress, fear, or deception that may indicate a security risk. BDOs work closely with law enforcement and security personnel to mitigate threats before they escalate. Their role is crucial in enhancing public safety and preventing potential security incidents.

What does a behavior detection officer do?

A behavior detection officer monitors individuals in public or secure areas to identify suspicious or abnormal behaviors that could indicate security threats. They use observation skills, behavioral analysis, and sometimes surveillance tools to assess potential risks and alert security personnel or law enforcement as needed.

Is it hard to get hired by Homeland Security?

Becoming a Behavior Detection Officer typically requires passing background checks, security clearances, and physical assessments. Candidates often need relevant experience, strong observational skills, and sometimes specialized training or certifications, making the hiring process competitive but structured.

What is Level 3 working as a Behavioural detection officer?

A Level 3 Behavioural Detection Officer is a trained security professional responsible for observing and analyzing behavioral cues to identify potential security threats. They typically work in high-security environments, utilize specialized training, and may hold certifications in behavioral analysis or security procedures. This role often involves advanced assessment skills and adherence to strict protocols to ensure safety and security.
More about Behavior Detection Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Behavior Detection Officer jobs? Cities with the most Behavior Detection Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Behavior Detection Officer jobs? The most popular types of Behavior Detection Officer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Behavior Detection Officer jobs? The top employers for Behavior Detection Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Behavior Detection Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Behavior Detection Officer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Behavior Detection Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, and 16% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,105 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
SFO Incumbent Transportation Security Officer with Behavior Detection

SFO Incumbent Transportation Security Officer with Behavior Detection

VMD Corp

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$37.03 - $38.84/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description
Position at VMD Corp
Join VMD Corp (VMD), an Xcelerate Solutions company, a recognized leader in transportation security since 2002, providing advanced screening solutions that leverage the latest technology to protect travelers and safeguard the nation's critical air infrastructure.
Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2026
VMD is currently seeking applications from existing personnel performing Transportation Security Officer with Behavior Detection services at San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
What you will do:
As a Transportation Security Officer with Behavior Detection (TSO-BD) at the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), you will identify behaviors and activities that deviate from established environmental or individual baselines. TSO-BD's will serve as a visible and proactive security layer within airport operations, assessing behavioral anomalies, and supporting TSA's risk-based security strategy through observation, engagement, and analysis. TSO-BD's maintain certification requirements and perform both behavior detection and traditional TSO duties as operational needs dictate.
Responsibilities specific to this role include, but are not limited to:
  • Conduct passive observation and engage in voluntary encounters with members of the traveling public.
  • Develop and maintain an understanding of expected traveler behaviors and identify deviations from established behavioral baselines.
  • Assess multiple individuals simultaneously and apply behavior detection methodologies.
  • Utilize behavioral indicators to determine whether additional screening or law enforcement involvement is warranted.
  • Refer individuals for additional screening when appropriate.
  • Document observed behaviors and prepare incident reports.
  • Work collaboratively with screening operations personnel and law enforcement partners.
  • Continuously improve security screening processes through training and development.
  • Exercise sound judgment during routine operations and security incidents.
  • Perform traditional Transportation Security Officer duties as required.

What you will need:
  • Be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Have a High School Diploma or General Education Development (GED)
  • Pass a computerized assessment (pattern recognition and 2D/3D spatial reasoning)
  • Pass a medical evaluation (vision, hearing, and joint mobility exam)
  • Pass pre-employment drug test
  • Clearance: TSA Public Trust clearance is required - must successfully complete a TSA background investigation, including financial review.
  • Ability to work any day, Monday - Sunday, and any shift between 12:00 AM and 11:59 PM

Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Constant standing, lifting, twisting and bending.

Training
  • All selected TSO-BD candidates must successfully complete TSA-approved Behavior Detection certification training and maintain certification requirements in accordance with applicable TSA Standard Operating Procedures and operational guidelines.
  • Training includes classroom instruction, on-the-job training, certification examinations, recurrent training, and continuous professional development.
  • Selected Officers must maintain both checkpoint certifications and BD certification standards to remain qualified for assignment.

Compensation and Benefits
  • Anticipated pay range for this position is $37.03 - $38.84, determined based on years of service and certifications and in accordance with the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and/or Department of Labor Service Contract Act (SCA) wage determination.

We offer:
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits per CBA/SCA guidelines
  • On-the-job training
  • Career development opportunities

Travel and Telecommuting:
  • Telecommute Option: No
  • Relocation: Relocation is not provided.

Working with VMD:
  • VMD Corp, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xcelerate Solutions, is part of the nation's critical air travel infrastructure. Our Transportation Security Services team helps protect travelers at home and abroad, providing security services at multiple airports across the United States. As a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, numerous law enforcement and civilian agencies, and the Intelligence Community, VMD and Xcelerate Solutions' customers are directly responsible for the security and safety of the United States.

Xcelerate Solutions and its subsidiaries are Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, age, equal pay, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or expression of another protected characteristic. As part of this commitment to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals, Xcelerate provides reasonable accommodations if needed because of an applicant's or an employee's disability. Xcelerate Solutions maintains a drug-free workplace.