Transportation Security Officer
PrintWork Tasks
TRANSPORTATION SECURITY OFFICERS inspect baggage, cargo, and passengers to find and prevent dangerous objects from being transported into secure areas or onto aircraft. They work in airports, railroad stations, on boats, and at international borders. Transportation security officers use x-ray machines, hand-wanding, pat-down searches, and walk-through metal detectors. They monitor the flow of passengers through screening checkpoints, and communicate with supervisors about potential dangers or threats. Transportation security officers communicate with the public, giving directions and responding to questions. They oversee most transportation-related responsibilities of the federal government during a national emergency.
Salary, Size & Growth
- $32,500 average per year ($15.50 per hour)
- A medium occupation (42,400 workers in 2010)
- Expected to grow moderately (1.4% per year)
Entry Requirements
TRANSPORTATION SECURITY OFFICERS with ability, and more training and experience may advance to higher level jobs such as supervisory transportation security officer and security manager.