Transportation Security Officer at Transportation Security Administration – Salt Lake City, Utah

About the opportunity

Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) are responsible for providing security and protection of air travelers, airports, and aircraft in a courteous and professional manner. Duties include operating screening equipment to identify dangerous objects, performing physical searches and screening, controlling terminal entry and exit points, and interacting with the public. TSOs must maintain focus in a stressful environment, demonstrate critical thinking to mitigate security threats, and adhere to standard operating procedures. This position involves shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Successful candidates will undergo a structured interview, drug screening, medical evaluation, and a comprehensive background investigation.

Salary and benefits

• Salary range of $48,410 to $59,686 per year (includes locality pay and retention incentive)
• Sign-on bonus of up to $2,000
• Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance
• Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401(k))
• Flexible Spending Account and Employee Assistance Program
• Personal leave days and paid federal holidays
• Uniform allowance and transportation subsidies
• Tuition reimbursement and fitness centers

Who can apply?

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National
• Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
• Must be proficient in English (reading, writing, speaking, and comprehending)
• Must meet physical requirements, including the ability to lift and manipulate baggage weighing up to 50 pounds and stand for prolonged periods
• Must pass a structured interview, drug screening, medical evaluation, and background investigation
• Must have resided in the United States for three of the last five years
• Must register with the Selective Service (for male applicants born after 12/31/59)
• Must meet one of the following: one year of full-time work experience in security, aviation screening, or as an X-ray technician; OR a high school diploma/GED/equivalent

Required documents

• Resume (limited to two pages)
• Assessment questionnaire responses
• DD-214 (Member Copy 4) for Veterans' Preference or service verification
• SF-15 and VA Letter for disability-based preference claims

When to apply

• Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 2026-10-09

How to apply

• Complete the initial online application and assessment via the USAJOBS portal
• Attach all required supporting documentation
• Submit the application package before the closing date
• If found eligible, schedule and complete a proctored examination at a TSA Testing Center within 21 days of receiving instructions
• Participate in a structured interview, medical evaluation, and drug screening if invited

Additional information

• This position is in the bargaining unit represented by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE).
• Occasional travel is required for training, which may last up to six weeks.
• TSA may apply a sex-specific hiring preference to meet security mission and pat-down requirements.
• The position is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
• Applicants must not have delinquent Federal or State taxes or past due child support.