Transportation Security Screeners
O*NET 33-9093.00 · SOC 33-9093
Transportation Security Screener is a risky career choice. Median pay is $67k a year with -4.2% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 4,500 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Screen passengers and carry-on bags using X-ray machines
- →Operate walk-through metal detectors and body scanners
- →Hand-search bags flagged for prohibited or suspicious items
- →Check passenger identification and boarding passes at checkpoints
- →Follow TSA protocols to resolve security alarms at checkpoints
Education & How to Get In
Transportation Security Screener roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Transportation Security Screener involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Transportation Security Screener?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Transportation Security Screener Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Transportation Security Screeners is projected to decline 4.2% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·48% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·28% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Transportation Security Screener make?
The median Transportation Security Screener earns $67k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Transportation Security Screener jobs?
Our model puts Transportation Security Screener at 44 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 48% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 28% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Transportation Security Screener a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 4.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 4,500 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Transportation Security Screener?
Most Transportation Security Screener roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Transportation Security Screener?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Transportation Security Screener career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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