ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

15Q Air Traffic Control Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Army

Air Traffic Controllers (15Q)

Houston, TX · On-site

Enlist as a Soldier into the United States Army and become a certified Air Traffic Control (ATC) Operator (15Q), you'll track aircraft such as jets and helicopters to ensure mission success while ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All Jobs15Q Air Traffic Control Operator Jobs

15Q Air Traffic Control Operator information

See salary details

$12

$19

$27

How much do 15q air traffic control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for 15q air traffic control operator in the United States is $19.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a 15Q air traffic control operator make?

A 15Q air traffic control operator, also known as an air traffic controller, typically earns a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certification level. They often work in high-stress environments requiring certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and may receive additional pay for night shifts or overtime.

What is a 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator job?

A 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator is a military professional responsible for coordinating and monitoring aircraft movements to ensure safe and efficient flight operations. They manage air traffic at military airfields and control centers, using radar and communication systems to provide pilots with essential flight instructions. Their duties include tracking aircraft, issuing takeoff and landing clearances, and responding to emergency situations. This role requires strong attention to detail, quick decision-making, and technical proficiency. Training includes completing the Air Traffic Control Operator Course at Fort Rucker, Alabama.

How hard is it to get hired as an air traffic controller?

Becoming an air traffic control operator is highly competitive, requiring passing rigorous assessments, completing specialized training, and obtaining certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority. Candidates typically need strong communication skills, the ability to handle high-pressure situations, and often have a background in aviation, military, or related fields.

Where does 15Q get stationed?

15Q Air Traffic Control Operators are typically stationed at military airfields, airbases, or command centers where they manage air traffic and coordinate aircraft movements. Assignments can vary based on military needs and operational requirements, and personnel often receive specialized training and certifications for their roles.

How long is Army 15Q school?

Army 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator training typically lasts around 10 to 12 weeks at the Military Occupational Specialty school. The program includes classroom instruction, practical exercises, and hands-on experience with radar and communication equipment to prepare soldiers for operational duties.

What are the daily responsibilities and work environment like for a 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator?

As a 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator, your daily responsibilities include monitoring, directing, and coordinating the movement of military aircraft using radar, radios, and visual signals. You will typically work in a control tower, tactical operations center, or mobile unit, often as part of a close-knit team of specialized personnel. The job requires constant communication with pilots and other controllers to ensure flight safety, coordinate takeoffs and landings, and respond quickly to changes in mission or weather conditions. The environment can be fast-paced and high-pressure, especially during training missions or deployments, but it offers strong camaraderie and a critical role in supporting military operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, quick decision-making abilities, attention to detail, and a high school diploma with completion of specialized military training. Familiarity with radar systems, radio communications equipment, and military protocols is essential, along with passing the FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist certification for some positions. Exceptional communication skills, stress management, and teamwork set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for maintaining flight safety, coordinating military airspace, and ensuring efficient mission execution.

More about 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator jobs are:
15Q Air Traffic Control Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 74% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 11% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 25% Hybrid, and 75% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,463 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

15Q Air Traffic Control Operator

National Guard OMD

Wilkes Barre, PA • On-site

$200 - $250/wk

Part-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description
Take control of the skies as an Air Traffic Control Operator for The Army National Guard! You will utilize your organizational skills to track planes and helicopters, and ensure safe flight operations by providing precise instructions to your crew.
Advanced Air Traffic Control Operators provide guidance on technical issues to other Soldiers. They also brief shift personnel on runway utilization, airfield conditions, weather, and ground activity. The skills you learn as an Air Traffic Control Operator will qualify you to work in civilian air traffic control towers and centers at airports and airfields.
Job Duties
• Control airborne and ground traffic
• Assist in the installation/relocation of tactical air traffic control facilities
• Process flight plan data and maintain logs, records, files, and tape recordings of voice communications
Some of the Skills You'll Learn
• Air traffic control management and operational procedures
• Communications and radar procedures
• Aircraft recognition
• Takeoff, landing, and ground control procedures
Helpful Skills
• Interest in work requiring accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• Decisiveness and working within strict standards
• Ability to work as a team member
Through your training, you will develop the skills and experience to enjoy a civilian career with aircraft manufacturers, commercial airlines, and government agencies.
Earn While You Learn
Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to learn. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.
Job training for an Air Traffic Control Operator requires 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you learn basic Soldiering skills. Then you will attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which consists of 14 weeks of additional training. Part of this time is spent in a classroom and part in the field under simulated combat conditions.
Benefits/Requirements
Benefits
  • Paid training
  • A monthly paycheck
  • Montgomery GI Bill
  • Federal and State tuition assistance
  • Retirement benefits for part-time service
  • Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)
  • 401(k)-type savings plan
  • Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)
  • Health care benefits available
  • VA home loans
  • Bonuses, if applicable
  • Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change

Requirements
  • Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
  • Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
  • Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
  • Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
  • Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Requires military enlistment. Programs and benefits are subject to change. Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.
Other Job Information
Job ID: 5910
ZIP Code: 18704
Job Category: Aviation
Age Requirements: Must be between the ages of 17 and 35 FAA federal aviation administration terminal controllers tower local controllers TRACON terminal radar controller tower flight data controller clearance delivery controller ground controller en route controller radar associate controller terminal radar ar

Apply