This post provides detailed information on the transportation security officer job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform, as well as templates employers can use.
It also highlights the major requirements you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the transportation security officer role.
What Does a Transportation Security Officer Do?
A Transportation Security Officer (TSO) is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of passengers, baggage, and transportation systems—primarily at airports—under the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Their work focuses on preventing dangerous items, prohibited substances, or security threats from entering aircraft or secure areas.
The Transportation Security Officer job description entails conducting security checks using metal detectors, full-body scanners, and pat-down procedures, ensuring passengers follow TSA screening procedures and removing prohibited items from carry-on baggage, as well as verifying passenger identification and boarding passes at checkpoints.
It also involves operating X-ray machines to inspect carry-on bags for weapons, explosives, or restricted materials, performing manual bag searches when an item triggers an alert or appears suspicious, and screening checked luggage using advanced imaging technology or explosive detection systems.
Observing passenger behavior to identify potential threats or unusual activity, monitoring secure areas of airports and ensuring no unauthorized access occurs, and responding to alarms, alerts, or suspicious findings according to TSA protocols are parts of the important duties that Transportation Security Officers commonly perform.
They are also responsible for operating advanced security technology, including body scanners, explosive trace detectors, and metal detectors and maintaining knowledge of equipment functions to ensure accurate screening.
TSOs enforce TSA, airport, and federal security regulations, communicate with law enforcement or airport security if escalations are needed, and follow strict standard operating procedures to maintain consistent screening standards.
Their duties also involve providing clear instructions to passengers during screening, assisting travelers with disabilities, medical devices, or special circumstances, and handling passenger questions or concerns professionally while maintaining security focus.
It is also their responsibility to record incidents, security breaches, or confiscated items, complete required paperwork and report for security operations, and log equipment issues or procedural deviations.
To be effective on the job, Transportation Security Officers are expected to participate in ongoing training on updated TSA procedures, new technology, threat recognition, and emergency response.
They also take periodic skill assessments to maintain certification and proficiency.
The job of the Transportation Security Officer also involves working closely with other TSOs, supervisors, and federal security personnel, and following direction from Transportation Security Managers and Lead TSOs.
Assisting with airport evacuation, lockdown procedures, or incident containment when required and supporting law enforcement during security threats or emergency situations are also tasks that TSOs usually carry out.
Transportation Security Officer Job Description Example/Sample
The Transportation Security Officer job description usually consists of the following duties, tasks, and responsibilities:
- Screen passengers using metal detectors, body scanners, and pat-down procedures to ensure no prohibited items pass through security
- Inspect carry-on baggage using X-ray machines and conduct manual searches when necessary
- Screen checked luggage using explosives detection systems and advanced imaging technology
- Verify passenger identification and boarding passes at security checkpoints
- Monitor passenger behavior to identify suspicious actions, threats, or security risks
- Enforce TSA security regulations and ensure passengers comply with screening rules
- Respond to security alarms from screening equipment and follow appropriate protocols
- Communicate clearly with passengers, providing instructions and answering questions about screening procedures
- Assist travelers with special needs, including those with medical devices, mobility challenges, or young children
- Confiscate prohibited items and document them according to TSA guidelines
- Report security incidents and complete documentation for unusual findings or breaches
- Coordinate with law enforcement officers when escalated security concerns arise
- Maintain and operate screening equipment, ensuring proper functionality and reporting malfunctions
- Conduct pat-down inspections in private screening areas when required
- Maintain a safe and orderly checkpoint environment, managing lines and preventing congestion
- Perform random screenings as directed by TSA protocol to enhance threat detection
- Participate in continuous training, including threat recognition, equipment use, and updated security procedures
- Support emergency response efforts such as evacuations, lockdowns, or threat containment
- Work with fellow TSOs and supervisors to ensure screening procedures run smoothly and efficiently
- Protect airport secure areas by preventing unauthorized access to restricted zones.
Transportation Security Officer Requirements: Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities for Career Success
Here are important requirements you may be asked to fulfill to be hired for the Transportation Security Officer role, which are also vital for success on the job and career:
- High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Must be a U.S. citizenship due to federal security responsibilities
- Ability to pass a background check, including criminal history review and security clearance screening
- Successful completion of a drug test to ensure candidate meets TSA’s drug-free workplace standards
- Pass a medical evaluation to confirm fitness for duty, including vision, hearing, and overall health
- Physical stamina and strength to stand for long periods, lift baggage, and operate equipment throughout the shift
- Good visual and auditory acuity to analyze X-ray images, detect unusual items, and hear instructions clearly
- Ability to pass the TSA color vision test to ensure the candidate can accurately interpret X-ray system colors
- Strong communication skills for giving instructions, managing passengers, and handling stressful situations
- Ability to handle stressful or high-pressure environments like the busy Airports that require fast, accurate decision-making
- Attention to detail for detecting prohibited items and spotting unusual behavior or bag contents
- Basic computer and technology skills for operating screening systems, scanners, and documentation software
- Ability to follow strict procedures and comply with standardized TSA protocols at all times
- Customer service skills to interact with passengers in a professional and helpful manner
- Willingness to work irregular hours, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays
- Ability to work in a team environment and coordinate closely with other officers, supervisors, and law enforcement when necessary
- Professional conduct and integrity for handling sensitive security information and performing federal duties
- Ability to meet TSA training requirements, including completing classroom learning, hands-on practice, and pass certification exams.
Transportation Security Officer Job Description Templates
Here are Transportation Security Officer job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their organizations:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Transportation Security Officer
Reports To: Supervisory Transportation Security Officer / Security Manager
Location: [Airport or Transportation Facility Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Organization Name] is committed to ensuring the safety and security of travelers, employees, and transportation infrastructure. We work closely with federal security standards and industry best practices to maintain a secure environment across all transportation facilities. Our team values professionalism, vigilance, and service excellence.
Position Overview
We are seeking a reliable and detail-oriented Transportation Security Officer (TSO) to conduct security screenings, monitor passenger behavior, inspect baggage, and enforce security protocols at transportation entry points. The TSO plays a crucial role in preventing prohibited items from entering secure areas and ensuring safe travel for all passengers.
The ideal candidate is alert, physically capable, customer-service oriented, and able to follow strict procedures under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
Passenger Screening
- Conduct thorough screening of passengers using manual pat-downs, walk-through metal detectors (WTMDs), or advanced imaging technology (AIT).
- Verify passenger identification and boarding documents.
- Observe and identify suspicious behavior or security risks.
Baggage & Property Inspection
- Inspect carry-on bags using X-ray technology and manual search techniques.
- Identify prohibited or dangerous items and respond according to protocols.
- Assist with screening of checked baggage when required.
Security Monitoring & Enforcement
- Enforce security policies, procedures, and federal regulations consistently.
- Respond to security incidents, alarms, or escalations quickly and appropriately.
- Follow chain-of-custody procedures and report all security concerns to supervisors.
Customer Service & Communication
- Provide clear instructions to passengers regarding screening procedures.
- Assist travelers with questions, concerns, or special screening needs.
- Maintain a calm, respectful, and professional demeanor during stressful situations.
Documentation & Reporting
- Prepare incident reports, screening logs, and operational documentation.
- Maintain accurate records of security screenings and discovered items.
- Communicate observations or issues to the Supervisory TSO promptly.
Safety & Compliance
- Comply with TSA or organizational training requirements, certifications, and recertifications.
- Follow safety protocols to avoid injuries and ensure smooth screening operations.
- Maintain a secure environment and vigilantly monitor surroundings.
Team Collaboration
- Coordinate with fellow security officers, law enforcement, airport staff, and supervisors.
- Participate in drills, meetings, and required training sessions.
- Support team members during high-volume or high-stress periods.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to remain calm, professional, and assertive under pressure.
- Physical ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 40 lbs., bend, and perform pat-downs.
- Ability to operate screening technology and follow detailed procedures.
- High level of integrity and discretion.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Prior security, law enforcement, or military experience preferred but not required.
- Must complete required security training and certification programs.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and legally authorized to work in the United States.
Note: For TSA positions, U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
Work Environment
- Airport or transportation facility environment with high passenger volume.
- Requires extended standing, repetitive movements, and occasional lifting.
- Exposure to noise, crowds, stressful situations, and security-sensitive activities.
- Shifts may include early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Organization Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any protected classification.
Additional Information
- Pre-employment background checks, drug screenings, and medical evaluations may be required.
- Ongoing training and certification renewals are mandatory.
- Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and application to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About Us
[Your Organization Name] is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of travelers and transportation facilities. We are seeking dependable Transportation Security Officers to join our security team.
Job Summary
The Transportation Security Officer screens passengers, inspects baggage, monitors secure areas, and enforces security procedures to ensure safe travel. This role requires strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct passenger screening using pat-downs, metal detectors, and imaging technology
- Inspect carry-on items using X-ray machines and manual searches
- Verify identification and travel documents
- Identify prohibited items and respond to security alerts
- Provide clear instructions and customer service to travelers
- Maintain accurate reports and follow security procedures
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required
- Strong observation and communication skills
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 40 lbs.
- Prior security or military experience is a plus
- Must meet legal minimum requirements to work in airport/transportation security
- U.S. citizenship is required
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens and legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Submit your resume to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
Conclusion
This post has provided exhaustive information on the duties, tasks, and responsibilities that commonly make up the Transportation Security Officer job description.
It is helpful to individuals interested in the Transportation Security Officer career to learn all they need to know about what they do.
Employers needing to make a detailed job description for the Transportation Security Officer role in their organizations will also find this article useful in making one.
They can apply any of the Transportation Security Officer job description templates on this page in making one for their organizations.
