The TSA employs roughly 60,000 people across all U.S. airports and checkpoints

The Transportation Security Administration has approximately 60,000 employees spread across the country. The exact number shifts slightly year to year based on funding, staffing needs at individual airports, and retirements, but this figure has remained relatively stable for the past decade. The majority of these workers are Transportation Security Officers — the people you see at airport security checkpoints screening passengers and baggage.

Beyond checkpoint screeners, the TSA also employs federal air marshals, canine handlers, administrative staff, training specialists, and security specialists who work behind the scenes. Each airport's staffing level depends on passenger volume, terminal size, and the number of security lanes that need to operate during peak hours.

Key Takeaways

  • The TSA employs around 60,000 people nationwide, with the majority working as Transportation Security Officers at airport checkpoints.
  • Staffing levels vary by airport based on passenger traffic and the number of security lanes in operation.
  • Beyond checkpoint screeners, the TSA employs federal air marshals, canine teams, training staff, and administrative personnel.
  • TSA employees are federal workers covered by federal employment rules, not private security contractors.
  • Job openings and current staffing information are posted on the official TSA careers website.

Where TSA employees work

Most TSA staff work at commercial airport security checkpoints, where they screen passengers, carry-on bags, and checked luggage. Larger airports like Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles employ hundreds of officers each, while smaller regional airports may have 20 to 50 officers per shift. The number of people working at any given airport depends on how many flights depart during peak hours and how many security lanes the airport operates.

TSA employees also work at railroad stations, bus terminals, and maritime ports, though in smaller numbers than at airports. Federal air marshals fly on commercial flights and work undercover. Canine teams — handler and dog pairs — patrol terminals and baggage areas. Administrative, training, and management staff work in regional TSA offices and at headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Types of TSA jobs and what they involve

Transportation Security Officers make up the bulk of the workforce. They operate X-ray machines, pat down passengers, check identification, and inspect baggage. The role requires standing for long shifts, making quick decisions under pressure, and following strict screening procedures. Most TSOs work full-time with rotating shifts that include early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

Federal Air Marshals are armed officers who fly on selected flights to prevent and respond to security threats. This is a smaller, specialized role that requires law enforcement training and a top-secret security clearance. Canine handlers work with trained dogs to detect explosives and other threats in terminals and baggage areas. Training specialistsAdministrative and management roles include supervisors, security specialists, human resources staff, and IT personnel who support checkpoint operations.

How TSA staffing has changed over time

The TSA was created in 2001 after the September 11 attacks and initially hired thousands of officers rapidly to staff every commercial airport checkpoint in the country. In the early 2000s, the agency grew to around 45,000 employees. Over the following two decades, staffing levels have fluctuated based on budget appropriations, passenger volume trends, and operational needs.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, passenger numbers dropped sharply, which affected staffing decisions at some airports. As travel rebounded, airports that had reduced staff faced challenges bringing officers back and hiring new ones. Staffing shortages at certain airports have been reported in news coverage, though the TSA has worked to recruit and retain officers through pay increases and improved working conditions in recent years.

TSA employment and federal job status

TSA employees are federal workers, not private contractors. This means they receive federal benefits, are covered by federal employment law, and follow federal pay scales. Transportation Security Officers start at a base salary that varies by location and experience, with higher pay in major metropolitan areas. Federal air marshals and specialized roles typically earn more than checkpoint officers.

TSA jobs require a background investigation, drug screening, and a valid U.S. passport or passport card. Many positions require U.S. citizenship. The agency conducts ongoing training and periodic recertification to may support officers meet performance standards. Employees can join federal unions, and many TSA officers are represented by the National Treasury Employees Union.

Finding information about TSA jobs and staffing

The official TSA careers website (tsa.gov/careers) lists current job openings, describes different roles, and explains the process process. The site includes information about pay, benefits, and what to expect during hiring. You can search for positions by airport location or job type. The site also has a section on federal benefits, retirement options, and employee resources.

For general questions about TSA operations or staffing at a specific airport, you can contact the TSA's public affairs office through their main website. Individual airports may also have information about local TSA operations and staffing levels, though specific numbers are sometimes limited for security reasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all airports have the same number of TSA employees?

No. Staffing varies widely based on passenger volume, airport size, and the number of security checkpoints. A major hub like Atlanta or Chicago has hundreds of TSA officers, while a small regional airport might have 20 to 40. Peak travel times require more staff than off-peak hours.

Are TSA officers the same as airport security?

TSA officers are federal employees who work for the Transportation Security Administration. Some airports also hire private security contractors for other duties, but checkpoint screening is always done by TSA officers. TSA is a federal agency, not a private company.

What's the difference between a TSA officer and a federal air marshal?

TSA officers work at checkpoints and terminals screening passengers and baggage. Federal air marshals are armed law enforcement officers who fly on planes to prevent and respond to threats. Air marshals require additional training and a security clearance, and the role is much smaller in number.

How do I learn about there are TSA job openings near me?

Visit tsa.gov/careers and search by location or job type. You can filter by airport or region to see what positions are open. The site also explains pay, benefits, and the process timeline for each role.

Do TSA employees get federal benefits?

Yes. TSA employees are federal workers and receive federal health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and other benefits. The specific benefits depend on the job type and employment status (full-time or part-time).