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How much does a Transportation Security Officer make?

The average salary for a Transportation Security Officer is $54,784 per year in the US.

A Transportation Security Officer (TSO) plays a vital role in ensuring public safety. On average, a TSO earns $54,784 per year. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Those new to the role typically start lower on the scale.


The earnings of TSOs can increase with more experience. The data shows salaries ranging from $37,000 to over $82,000 a year. Most officers fall in the middle of this range. This makes it a stable career with opportunities for growth. Factors affecting salary include location, overtime, and any additional training.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Transportation Security Officer?

Transportation Security Officers can find good pay in several cities. Santa Rosa, CA, leads with an average salary of $66,640. Job seekers should also look at San Francisco, CA, where salaries reach $62,856 on average. These cities offer competitive pay for those in the field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Transportation Security Officer jobs, highlighting Santa Rosa, CA with the highest at $66,640 and Cedar Rapids, IA with the lowest at $41,816.
  1. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $66,640
    Working in Santa Rosa offers a chance to serve a community that values both natural beauty and cultural richness. You will find yourself at the Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport, where you can make a difference in daily security operations.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $62,856
    In San Francisco, you will play a vital role in ensuring safety at one of the busiest airports on the West Coast. Working in such a dynamic environment gives you the chance to interact with people from all over the world, contributing to their travel experiences.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $61,833
    Boston presents an exciting opportunity to serve at Logan International Airport, a major hub for travelers. Your work will help maintain the smooth flow of visitors and locals alike, adding to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Boston, MA


  4. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $59,153
    Denver's diverse environment makes for a unique experience. Working in this city, you will be a key part of keeping travelers safe at one of the busiest airports in the nation, right in the heart of the Rockies.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Denver, CO


  5. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $50,994
    Albany offers a chance to balance a professional career with the charm of a historic city. At the Albany International Airport, you will be responsible for ensuring the security and comfort of passengers passing through.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Albany, NY


  6. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $44,390
    In Kansas City, you will find a blend of small-town charm and big-city opportunities. Working here, you will play a key role in securing one of the major airports, contributing to the city's economic and social life.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Kansas City, MO


  7. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $43,896
    St. Louis provides a mix of urban and suburban experiences. Here, your duties at the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport will help keep travelers safe as they journey through one of America’s iconic cities.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in St. Louis, MO


  8. Rochester, NY
    Average Salary: $42,232
    Rochester offers a mix of historical landmarks and modern amenities. Working as a security officer here, you will be part of ensuring the safety and efficiency at the Greater Rochester International Airport.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Rochester, NY


  9. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $41,816
    In Cedar Rapids, you will find a community that values safety and reliability. Working at the Eastern Iowa Airport, you will help maintain a secure environment for all who pass through, while also enjoying a lower cost of living.
    Find Transportation Security Officer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

What are the best companies a Transportation Security Officer can work for?

Transportation Security Officers can find great opportunities with several top-paying companies. Bering Straits Native Corporation offers an average salary of $70,104, making it a prime choice. Xcelerate Solutions provides a competitive average salary of $60,797, while TSA follows closely with an average of $55,721. Aviation Security Management, with a $43,114 average salary, also presents solid prospects for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Transportation Security Officer jobs, highlighting Bering Straits Native Corporation with the highest at $70,104 and Aviation Security Management with the lowest at $43,114.
  1. Bering Straits Native Corporation
    Average Salary: $70,104
    Bering Straits Native Corporation offers rewarding Transportation Security Officer jobs. They work in various locations, including airports in Alaska, Florida, and Washington. This company values security and professionalism.


  2. Xcelerate Solutions
    Average Salary: $60,797
    Xcelerate Solutions provides exciting Transportation Security Officer opportunities. They operate in major airports across the country, such as Los Angeles and New York. They focus on safety and offer good benefits.


  3. TSA (Transportation Security Administration)
    Average Salary: $55,721
    The TSA provides numerous Transportation Security Officer jobs. They work in airports nationwide. They offer training and support, making it a solid career choice for those new to the field.


  4. Aviation Security Management
    Average Salary: $43,114
    Aviation Security Management has Transportation Security Officer positions available. They serve airports in major cities like Dallas and Chicago. This company emphasizes teamwork and continuous improvement.

How to earn more as a Transportation Security Officer?

Becoming a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) opens many doors for personal and professional growth. This career not only contributes to public safety but also offers opportunities for advancement and higher earnings. Several key factors can help a TSO increase their income. These factors include gaining experience, advancing through the ranks, pursuing additional certifications, working in high-demand locations, and taking on extra shifts.

Experience is one of the most valuable assets for a TSO. The more time an officer spends in the field, the more skilled they become. Increased skill often leads to higher pay. TSOs can also look to advance within their careers. Taking on leadership roles such as a shift supervisor or team leader can significantly boost earnings. Certifications in specialized areas such as bomb detection or K-9 handling add another layer of expertise. These certifications not only increase job performance but also command higher salaries. Working in high-demand locations like major airports can also lead to more lucrative opportunities. Lastly, taking on extra shifts or overtime can provide a substantial increase in income.

In summary, TSOs have several avenues to explore for higher earnings. By gaining experience, seeking promotions, obtaining additional certifications, choosing high-demand locations, and taking extra shifts, it is possible to increase income over time. These steps require dedication and hard work, but the rewards can be significant.

Here are five factors to consider for higher earnings:

  1. Gain experience
  2. Advance through the ranks
  3. Pursue additional certifications
  4. Work in high-demand locations
  5. Take on extra shifts

Currently 51 Transportation Security Officer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Transportation Security Officer in the US?

Learn what a Transportation Security Officer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Transportation Security Officer today.
Position
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Transportation Security Officer
51 Job Openings