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Detection Officer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MoneyLion

Head of Detection and Response

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$260 - $380/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Partner with senior leadership (CISO, CTO, COO) to communicate security risks and maturity gains ... Must haves: * 8-14 years of overall detection and response or security engineering experience.

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All JobsDetection Officer JobsDetection Officer Jobs in California

Detection Officer information

What are some common challenges detection officers face when monitoring security systems, and how can they effectively address them?

Detection Officers often face challenges such as managing multiple surveillance feeds simultaneously, quickly distinguishing between real threats and false alarms, and maintaining focus during long shifts. To address these challenges, officers typically rely on well-established protocols, regular training updates, and teamwork to ensure thorough coverage and prompt response. Additionally, leveraging advanced technology and clear communication with other security staff helps Detection Officers remain effective and minimize overlooked incidents.

What is a detection officer?

Detection Officers are security professionals responsible for identifying and preventing illegal or suspicious activities, often within airports, borders, or other secure facilities. They use specialized equipment and techniques to detect contraband, prohibited items, or security threats. Detection Officers may work with law enforcement agencies and are trained to respond to potential risks while ensuring the safety of people and property. Their role is essential in maintaining security and upholding regulations in sensitive environments.

What is the difference between Detection Officer vs Security Guard?

AspectDetection OfficerSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsSecurity certifications, training in detection methodsBasic security training, sometimes licensing
Work EnvironmentAirports, ports, border crossings, security agenciesBuildings, malls, events, private properties
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, security firmsPrivate companies, retail, event venues
Common Search & ComparisonDetection Officer vs Security Guard

The Detection Officer and Security Guard roles share similarities in security responsibilities but differ mainly in focus and environment. Detection Officers specialize in identifying threats through surveillance and detection techniques, often working in high-security settings like airports or border crossings. Security Guards provide general security services across various locations. Both roles require security training, but Detection Officers typically need specialized certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and career goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a detection officer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Detection Officer, you generally need strong observational skills, attention to detail, and a background in security or law enforcement, often supported by relevant certifications. Familiarity with surveillance systems, security screening equipment, and incident reporting software is typically required. Excellent judgment, integrity, and effective communication are essential soft skills for handling sensitive situations and interacting with the public. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safety, preventing security breaches, and maintaining public trust in high-risk environments.

What are popular job titles related to Detection Officer jobs in California?

For Detection Officer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Detection Officer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Detection Officer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Detection Officer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Detection Officer job openings:

Detection Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detection Officer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

SFO Incumbent Transportation Security Officer with Behavior Detection

VMD Corp

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$37.03 - $38.84/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Description

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.

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