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Tsa Inspector Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

covenant

AIRPORT SECURITY GUARD

Oakland, CA · On-site

$23.76/hr

Inspecting concession products for prohibited items (as defined by TSA) prior to entering the Sterile Area, including visual inspections by hand and/or use of CEIA Electro-Magnetic Inspection ...

Covenant

AIRPORT SECURITY GUARD

Oakland, CA · On-site

$23.41/hr

Inspecting concession products for prohibited items (as defined by TSA) prior to entering the Sterile Area, including visual inspections by hand and/or use of CEIA Electro-Magnetic Inspection ...

Covenant

AIRPORT SECURITY GUARD

Oakland, CA · On-site

$23.76/hr

Queue management at TSA checkpoints and in the Federal Inspection Services (FIS) building, including Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosk support Passenger divesting assistance at TSA checkpoints ...

The Salvation Army

Maintenance Tech

Eureka, CA

$17.50/hr

Conduct daily ground inspections and maintain cleanliness and upkeep of building and outside ... Driving duties include driving a TSA vehicle and/or a personal vehicle for TSA business purposes.

Salvation Army

Maintenance Tech

Eureka, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21/hr

Conduct daily ground inspections and maintain cleanliness and upkeep of building and outside ... Driving duties include driving a TSA vehicle and/or a personal vehicle for TSA business purposes.

MAT Express

LAX Class A Driver

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$28/hr

Perform pre- and post-trip vehicle inspection reports. * Record cargo deliveries. * Verify loads ... Ability to pass Security Threat Assessment (TSA) background check

covenant

Cargo Screener

Ontario, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Essential Functions Cargo Screening Operations • Conduct physical inspections of cargo, containers, pallets, and freight in accordance with TSA regulations. • Operate X-ray equipment, Explosive ...

Covenant Services

Cargo Screener

Ontario, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Essential Functions Cargo Screening Operations • Conduct physical inspections of cargo, containers, pallets, and freight in accordance with TSA regulations. • Operate X-ray equipment, Explosive ...

Covenant

Cargo Screener

Ontario, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Essential Functions Cargo Screening Operations • Conduct physical inspections of cargo, containers, pallets, and freight in accordance with TSA regulations. • Operate X-ray equipment, Explosive ...

Covenant

Cargo Screener

Ontario, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Essential Functions Cargo Screening Operations • Conduct physical inspections of cargo, containers, pallets, and freight in accordance with TSA regulations. • Operate X-ray equipment, Explosive ...

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All JobsTsa Inspector JobsTsa Inspector Jobs in California

Tsa Inspector information

See California salary details

$24.2K

$54.2K

$97.7K

How much do tsa inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for tsa inspector in California is $54,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $62,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are TSA agents getting $10,000?

TSA agents' salaries vary based on experience, location, and pay scale, but it is uncommon for TSA inspector salaries to reach $10,000 per month or more. Most TSA inspectors earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, with higher salaries possible for senior or supervisory roles. Overtime and benefits can increase total compensation but generally do not bring monthly earnings to $10,000.

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

To thrive as a TSA Inspector, you need a solid understanding of security regulations, investigative techniques, and relevant federal laws, usually supported by a background in law enforcement or security. Familiarity with X-ray imaging systems, security screening equipment, and government databases is essential for effective inspections and incident documentation. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring compliance and addressing security concerns. These abilities are vital for maintaining national security, enforcing regulations, and ensuring safe air travel environments.

What are TSA Inspectors?

TSA Inspectors are federal employees who work for the Transportation Security Administration to ensure the security and compliance of transportation systems, primarily at airports. They conduct inspections, investigations, and audits of transportation facilities and operations to enforce regulations and standards. Their responsibilities include monitoring security procedures, assessing vulnerabilities, and ensuring that transportation operators follow federal security requirements. TSA Inspectors play a vital role in protecting the public and maintaining the safety of the nation's transportation infrastructure.

Is it hard to get hired as a TSA officer?

Becoming a TSA officer involves a competitive application process that includes background checks, fingerprinting, and passing a structured assessment. Candidates typically need to meet specific requirements such as age, education, and physical fitness, and may undergo training before starting the job. The hiring process can be thorough but is designed to select qualified individuals for security roles at transportation hubs.

Are TSA inspectors getting paid?

TSA inspectors are paid a salary that varies based on experience, location, and federal pay scales, typically starting at the GS-5 or GS-7 level. They receive regular wages, benefits, and may earn overtime pay depending on their work schedule. The position often requires background checks and security clearances, with pay structured according to federal government standards.

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

AspectTsa InspectorTransportation Security Officer
CertificationsSecurity clearance, TSA certificationsSecurity clearance, TSA certifications
Work EnvironmentAirport security checkpoints, baggage screeningAirport security checkpoints, passenger screening
Employer & IndustryTransportation Security Administration, airportsTransportation Security Administration, airports
Job FocusInspecting baggage, verifying security compliancePassenger screening, ensuring safety protocols

Both Tsa Inspectors and Transportation Security Officers work within airport security, often performing overlapping duties such as baggage and passenger screening. Tsa Inspectors typically focus on inspecting baggage and security compliance, while Transportation Security Officers primarily handle passenger screening. Both roles require TSA certifications and work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities differ slightly based on their focus areas.

How to become a TSA inspector?

To become a TSA inspector, candidates must pass a background check, complete TSA training, and meet age and physical requirements. Applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should demonstrate good communication and customer service skills. The hiring process includes interviews and assessments to evaluate suitability for security screening roles.

What are some common challenges TSA Inspectors face during airport security operations?

TSA Inspectors often encounter challenges such as handling high-pressure situations, adapting to constantly evolving security protocols, and efficiently managing time during busy travel periods. They must maintain attention to detail while screening passengers and baggage, and occasionally diffuse tense interactions with travelers. Collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and airport staff is frequent, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
What are popular job titles related to Tsa Inspector jobs in California? For Tsa Inspector jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tsa Inspector jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Tsa Inspector jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Tsa Inspector jobs? Cities in California with the most Tsa Inspector job openings:
Tsa Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tsa Inspector job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,220 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
AIRPORT SECURITY GUARD

AIRPORT SECURITY GUARD

covenant

Oakland, CA • On-site

$23.76/hr

Other

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

We are currently seeking a Security Guard for the Oakland Airport, available to start as soon as possible. 

Shift: 7pm to 3:30am

Pay rate: $23.76 per hour

Must have an active State of California Security License

Essential Functions

  • Inspecting concession products for prohibited items (as defined by TSA) prior to entering the Sterile Area, including visual inspections by hand and/or use of CEIA Electro-Magnetic Inspection Scanners (EMIS)

  • Inspecting Airport employees for dangerous or illegal items at employee access points, including use of hand-held and/or walk-through metal detectors and/or Evolv Edge screening machines (combination millimeter-wave AIT and metal detector)

  • Escorting unbadged contractors in TSA-regulated areas (for short-duration access needs)

  • Performing tool control for contractors working in the Sterile Area

  • Controlling access to airfield gates for construction activities

  • Inspecting vehicles for vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs)

  • Performing perimeter patrols and fence line inspections

  • Crowd control (in partnership with law enforcement)

  • Monitoring traffic flow / directing traffic, including commercial / ground transportation vehicles

  • Providing foot patrol of terminal buildings and other Port facilities to identify suspicious activity, improper escorting, unattended bags, etc.

  • Inspecting and validating airport-issued badges (e.g., using technology such as portable card readers, comparing photos on badges to individuals presenting them, etc.)

  • Responding to emergency or critical / urgent incidents (e.g., to assist Port staff and/or law enforcement control access and/or establish a perimeter

  • Conducting stadium-style (“open and look”) inspections of Airport employees’ personal items such as backpacks, purses, lunch containers, etc.

  • Effectively and efficiently operating a variety of security technology and equipment, such as portable card readers, hand-held and walk-through magnetometers, Evolve Edge screening machines, pole cameras (for vehicle inspections), and CEIA EMIS product inspection machines.

  • Interacting with customers and tenants with the highest level of professionalism and courtesy

  • Communicating in a clear and concise manner when security incidents arise and to conduct / manager day-to-day operations.

  • Queue management at TSA checkpoints and in the Federal Inspection Services (FIS) building, including Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosk support

  • Passenger divesting assistance at TSA checkpoints (e.g., instructing passengers what to divest at the front of TSA x-ray machines / magnetometers, based on training provided by TSA)

  • Bin running at TSA checkpoints (i.e., moving divestiture bins from the backside of the checkpoints, where passengers leave them when done with TSA screening, back to the frontside of the checkpoints)


       Minimum Qualifications

  • High School Degree or GED required.

  • Must be at least 18 years old.

  • U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or Lawful Permanent Resident.

  • Must have completed and obtained a security guard license issued by the California Department of Consumer Affairs Bureau of Security and Investigative Services.

  • Able to distinguish all colors, and have vision correctable to 20/20.

  • Must have a valid driver’s license.

  • Demonstrated knowledge and/or aptitude to learn security-related functions.

  • Must be willing to submit to and pass a random drug screen and background check.

  • Must be neat, well-groomed and present a professional appearance.

Apply