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Air Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Graduate of a USAF Air Weapons Controller/Air Weapons Manager, or USN Air Intercept Controllers Course or equivalent air or weapons control training program. * Flexibility to work non-duty hours, or ...

Graduate of a USAF Air Weapons Controller/Air Weapons Manager, or USN Air Intercept Controllers Course or equivalent air or weapons control training program. * Flexibility to work non-duty hours, or ...

Job Summary Controllers function as the central clearing house for all data and information for the local operation and the customer. In this role, the controller must maintain consistent and ...

Controller

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site +1

$95K - $135K/yr

About the Financial Controller position We are looking for a skilled Financial Controller who will be responsible for all aspects of financial management, including corporate accounting, regulatory ...

Job Summary Controllers function as the central clearing house for all data and information for the local operation and the customer. In this role, the controller must maintain consistent and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Air Controller information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$117.9K

$173.2K

How much do air controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for air controller in California is $117,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $136,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are air controllers getting paid?

Air traffic controllers typically receive competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and level of responsibility. They are usually paid hourly or salary wages, often with additional benefits and overtime pay, reflecting the demanding nature of the job and required certifications. Entry-level positions generally start lower, with pay increasing with experience and seniority.

How do you become an air controller?

To become an air controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training at an FAA-approved air traffic control academy. They must pass medical and background checks, and often need to gain experience through on-the-job training, demonstrating strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is required to work as an air traffic controller.

Is it hard to get hired as an air traffic controller?

Becoming an air traffic controller is competitive and requires passing a series of tests, including aptitude assessments, medical exams, and background checks. Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree or relevant experience, and training programs are rigorous, making the hiring process challenging but structured for qualified applicants.

What job categories do people searching Air Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Air Controller jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Air Controller jobs?

Cities in California with the most Air Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Air Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,932 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Air Controller with Security Clearance

Amentum

Paso Robles, CA • On-site

$40.85 - $50.98/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Amentum is seeking a Air Controller for the Space Force Range Contract Typical Duties * Controls Western Range (WR) airspace and air assets in support of daily tasking, pre-launch tests, and aeronautical tests * Interfaces with Test Conductors and range instrumentation such as telemetry or metric radars, interfaces with Air Force and other government representatives, and provides assistance in resolving conflicts between support elements and range resources while conducting pre-launch operational testing * Performs positive aircraft vectoring, air intercept control operations, and general airspace surveillance * Supports WR launch operations in the AF-certified Duty Air Controller, Air Controller, and Surface-Air-Surveillance operator positions * Other duties as assigned such as log keeping, scheduling range assets, and assisting with troubleshooting operational problems Minimum Requirements * Associate's degree or two-year certificate from college or technical school or equivalent combination of education and experience in Aviation Management * Minimum of three years of air controller experience and/or training * Ability to control aircraft in a variety of tasks in support of Aerial Surveillance mission * Experience using an automated Air Control and Surveillance System to control aircraft in an military environment * Graduate of an USAF Air Weapons Controller/Air Weapons Manager or USN Air Intercept Controllers Course or equivalent * The flexibility to work occasional non-duty hours or on weekends to support specific project requirements * Ability to solve geometric position problems * Good verbal skills * Ability to interpret requirements and convert into action plans * Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Government Clearance. Note: U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain a Secret Clearance. Salary and Other Compensation * The annual starting salary for this position is between $40.85 - $50.98 hourly. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range include geography/market, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. Salary determined by Collective Bargaining Agreement. Benefits The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, short-term disability insurance, paid time off, and paid holidays annually. Compensation Details:
50.98 Original Posting:
08/21/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs. Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters .