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Transportation Security Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carnival Corp

Manager, Fleet Security

Seattle, WA · On-site

This role involves managing security inspections, training programs, staffing oversight, and the ... Transportation Management, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in shipboard ...

covenant

AIRPORT SECURITY SCREENER

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

$23.55 - $24.65/hr

Physically inspect the x-raying cargo, crates, and other containers as required by the Transportation Security Administration * Verifying necessary documentation for transportation of goods as ...

Covenant

AIRPORT SECURITY SCREENER

Franklin Park, IL · On-site

$23.55/hr

Physically inspect the x-raying cargo, crates, and other containers as required by the Transportation Security Administration * Verifying necessary documentation for transportation of goods as ...

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Transportation Security Inspector information

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How much do transportation security inspector jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for transportation security inspector in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Transportation Security Inspectors?

Transportation Security Inspectors are professionals responsible for ensuring the safety and security of various modes of transportation, such as airports, railways, highways, and ports. They inspect facilities, equipment, and operations to ensure compliance with federal security regulations and standards. Their duties often include conducting investigations, assessing security protocols, and providing guidance on improving transportation security. These inspectors play a crucial role in protecting the public and preventing security threats within the transportation system.

What are some typical challenges Transportation Security Inspectors face when balancing security protocols with efficient travel operations?

Transportation Security Inspectors often encounter the challenge of enforcing strict security regulations while minimizing disruptions to travelers and transportation schedules. They must remain vigilant for potential threats, conduct thorough inspections, and ensure compliance with federal standards, all while working collaboratively with airport staff, law enforcement, and transportation operators. Balancing these priorities requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and sound judgment, especially during peak travel times or special security alerts.

What is the difference between Transportation Security Inspector vs Transportation Security Officer?

AspectTransportation Security InspectorTransportation Security Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, TSA certification, security trainingHigh school diploma, TSA training
Work EnvironmentInspections at airports, security assessmentsPassenger screening at airport checkpoints
Employer & IndustryTransportation Security Administration (TSA), aviation securityTSA, aviation security
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Transportation Security Inspectors focus on inspecting security measures and ensuring compliance at airports, while Transportation Security Officers handle passenger screening and security checks. Both roles are essential in aviation security, but they differ in responsibilities and work scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Transportation Security Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transportation Security Inspector, you need a solid understanding of transportation security regulations, investigative techniques, and typically a background in law enforcement or security-related fields. Familiarity with security screening equipment, incident reporting systems, and certifications such as those offered by the TSA are often required. Attention to detail, strong analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help inspectors identify threats and collaborate with various stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safety standards and protecting transportation systems from security risks.
More about Transportation Security Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Transportation Security Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Transportation Security Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Transportation Security Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Transportation Security Inspector jobs include:
Transportation Security Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Transportation Security Inspector job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Transportation Security Officer (TSO)

Phenom People

Santa Fe, NM • On-site

$18.70 - $26.72/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Transportation Security Officer

Transportation Security Officers are responsible for providing security and protection of travelers across all transportation sectors in a courteous and professional manner. Their duties may also extend to securing high-profile events, important figures and/or anything that includes or impacts our transportation systems.

Salary: $18.70 - $26.72 per hour

Location: Santa Fe, NM MANY vacancies

Appointment type: Permanent

Work schedule: Part-Time

Service: Excepted

Promotion potential: E

Job family (Series): 1802 Compliance Inspection And Support

Supervisory status: No

Security clearance: Not Required

Drug test: Yes

Announcement number: SAF-F19-P001

Control number: 616318300

This job is open to: The public U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Duties: Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) provide security and protection of air travelers, airports and aircraft in a courteous and professional manner. This includes:

  • Operating various screening equipment and technology to identify dangerous objects in baggage, cargo and on passengers, and preventing those objects from being transported onto aircraft.
  • Performing searches and screening, which may include physical interaction with passengers (e.g., pat-downs, search of property, etc.), conducting bag searches and lifting/carrying bags, bins, and property weighing up to 50lbs.
  • Controlling terminal entry and exit points.
  • Interacting with the public, giving directions and responding to inquiries.
  • Maintaining focus and awareness while working in a stressful environment which includes noise from alarms, machinery and people, crowd distractions, time pressure, and disruptive and angry passengers, in order to preserve the professional ability to identify and locate potentially life threatening or mass destruction devices, and to make effective decisions in both crisis and routine situations.
  • Engaging in continuous development of critical thinking skills, necessary to mitigate actual and potential security threats, by identifying, evaluating, and applying appropriate situational options and approaches. This may include application of risk-based security screening protocols that vary based on program requirements.
  • Retaining and implementing knowledge of all applicable Standard Operating Procedures, demonstrating responsible and dependable behavior, and is open to change and adapts to new information or unexpected obstacles.

NOTE: Employees occupying frontline positions, i.e., individuals occupying positions that involve contact with the traveling public on a regular and recurring basis, may be required to wear TSA approved and issued personal protective equipment (PPE). This requirement is in place to address the COVID-19 pandemic and comply with Executive Order 13991 and TSA's Pandemic and Emerging Infectious Disease and Workforce Protection Plan. PPE includes TSA issued surgical masks, face shields, and nitrile gloves. At TSA, the health and safety of our employees is a top priority.

Requirements: Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National and at least 18 years of age. Pass a drug screening, medical evaluation, and background investigation. Subject to post-employment random drug and/or alcohol testing. Must be registered for Selective Service (males born after 12/31/59). Must be available to work various shifts and overtime, as needed. Mandatory travel for training and occasional travel may be required.

Qualifications: Applicants must meet these qualifications in order to be further evaluated in the TSO hiring process: Have a high school diploma, General Educational Development (GED), High School Equivalency Test (HiSET), or Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) credential OR at least one year of full-time work experience in the security industry, aviation screening, or as an X-ray technician. Be proficient in the English language (i.e., able to read, write, speak, and comprehend).

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