🟢 Status: OPEN — Closes June 18, 2026 | Multiple Airports Nationwide | Source: USAJOBS.gov
TSA Transportation Security Officer Jobs 2026 — Department of Homeland Security | Apply Now on USAJOBS
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), under the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is actively hiring Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) for 2026 at airports across the United States. TSA is one of the most accessible entry points into a federal law enforcement and security career, with positions available nationwide and a salary range of $39,576 to $82,506 per year depending on location and pay band.
Whether you are entering the federal workforce for the first time, transitioning from military service, or looking for a stable career with outstanding benefits — a TSA Transportation Security Officer position offers job security, full federal benefits, career advancement opportunities, and the chance to serve your country every day at America’s airports.
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Transportation Security Officer (TSO) |
| Agency | Transportation Security Administration (TSA) |
| Department | US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) |
| Job Series | SV-1802 (TSA uses SV pay bands, not GS) |
| Location | Los Angeles, CA | New York, NY | Chicago, IL | Atlanta, GA | Dallas, TX | Washington, DC | Miami, FL + 400+ Airports Nationwide |
| Work Schedule | Full-Time, Part-Time, or Intermittent |
| Appointment Type | Permanent Career Appointment |
| Pay Scale & Grade | SV-D through SV-F pay bands |
| Salary Range | $39,576 – $82,506 per year (plus locality pay) |
| Opening Date | February 12, 2026 |
| Closing Date | June 18, 2026 — Apply Now |
| Who May Apply | US Citizens — Open to Public |
| Security Clearance | Sensitive Security Information (SSI) — Background investigation required |
| Drug Test | Required |
| Medical Requirements | Color vision, hearing, and physical fitness standards required |
| Travel Required | No — assigned to one airport |
| Telework Eligible | No — on-site position |
| USAJOBS Control No. | 852614300 |
| USAJOBS Link | Click Here to Apply |
About the Role
As a Transportation Security Officer, you are on the front lines of aviation security — protecting travelers, crews, and airport personnel by screening passengers and baggage at airport security checkpoints. TSOs operate a wide range of advanced screening equipment including X-ray machines, Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanners, Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) devices, and physical pat-down procedures.
The role requires physical stamina, alertness, strong communication skills, and the ability to make rapid, accurate decisions in a fast-paced environment. You will work rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and federal holidays as required by your airport’s operational schedule — and you will be part of a team that processes hundreds of thousands of travelers each day.
“Our officers are the backbone of aviation security in America. Every day, TSOs prevent dangerous items from boarding aircraft and protect the traveling public.” — TSA Leadership
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Screen passengers and carry-on baggage at airport security checkpoints using X-ray and AIT body scanning equipment
- Operate Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) equipment to test for explosive residue on passengers and property
- Conduct hand-wand inspections, physical pat-down procedures, and property searches in accordance with TSA Standard Operating Procedures
- Identify prohibited, dangerous, or suspicious items in baggage and on persons — escalating to supervisors or law enforcement as required
- Operate and monitor security lanes including Automated Screening Lanes (ASL) at larger airports
- Verify traveler identification and boarding documents using document authentication procedures
- Respond to alarms and resolve screening anomalies efficiently while maintaining checkpoint throughput
- Maintain composure and professionalism under pressure — including during high-volume travel periods
- Comply with all TSA Standard Operating Procedures, regulatory requirements, and security protocols
- Participate in required ongoing training, recurrent testing, and certification programs to maintain TSO designation
Qualifications & Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | Must be 18 years or older on date of appointment |
| Citizenship | US Citizen — required, no exceptions |
| Education/Experience | High school diploma or GED OR at least one year of full-time security work, aviation, or military experience |
| English Language | Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English |
| Background Investigation | Complete SSI background investigation required — no felony convictions |
| Drug Test | Must pass pre-employment drug test; random testing throughout employment |
| Medical Exam | Must pass TSA medical evaluation including color vision, hearing, and physical fitness standards |
| Physical Requirements | Ability to lift/carry 70 lbs, stand for extended periods, bend, and reach |
| Psychological Exam | Not required for TSO positions |
Salary & Benefits
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Salary | $39,576 – $82,506/yr depending on pay band and airport location |
| Locality Pay | Additional locality adjustments for high-cost cities — NYC, LA, DC, etc. |
| Work Schedule | Full-Time (40 hrs), Part-Time, or Intermittent — rotating shifts |
| Paid Time Off | 26 days paid vacation + 13 days sick leave per year (full-time) |
| Federal Holidays | 11 paid federal holidays |
| Health Insurance | Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) — TSA pays most of the premium |
| Dental & Vision | Federal Employees Dental & Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) |
| Retirement | Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) — agency contributes |
| TSP (401k) | Thrift Savings Plan with 5% government matching |
| Life Insurance | Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) |
| Paid Parental Leave | 12 weeks paid parental leave |
| Uniforms | All uniforms and equipment provided at no cost |
| Career Advancement | Lead TSO → Master TSO → Supervisory TSO → Transportation Security Manager |
How to Apply
Step 1 — Create a free account on USAJOBS.gov and complete your profile
Step 2 — Go directly to usajobs.gov/job/852614300
Step 3 — Click “Apply” and complete the online application including the TSA Assessment Battery
Step 4 — Select your preferred airport location(s) from the list of available assignments
Step 5 — Upload required documents: resume, proof of citizenship, high school diploma or equivalent, DD-214 (if veteran)
Step 6 — If selected, you will be invited to complete a medical exam, drug test, and background investigation before your start date
⚠️ Important: This announcement closes June 18, 2026. Apply immediately — TSA processes applications on a rolling basis and positions may fill before the closing date. All applications must be submitted through USAJOBS.gov. You will be required to pass the TSA Computer Based Test (CBT) as part of the selection process.
Veterans’ Preference
Veterans with an honorable discharge are eligible for 5-point or 10-point hiring preference for TSA Transportation Security Officer positions. Military Police, Security Forces, and other security-related veterans are especially competitive. TSA also participates in the Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment (VRA) and 30% or More Disabled Veteran programs. Indicate your veterans’ preference on your USAJOBS profile and include your DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) in your application package.
About the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was created in 2001 following the September 11 attacks to strengthen the security of the nation’s transportation systems while ensuring the freedom of movement for people and commerce. TSA employs approximately 60,000 Transportation Security Officers across 400+ US airports, making it one of the largest federal employers of frontline security personnel. TSA screens more than 2.5 million passengers per day and inspects over 1.4 million checked bags per day — playing a critical role in keeping America’s skies safe.
Disclaimer
FederalJobsAlert.us is an independent job notification website. This listing is sourced from USAJOBS.gov for informational purposes only. Always verify the latest details and apply directly at usajobs.gov/job/852614300. We are not affiliated with TSA, DHS, or any US government agency.
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