AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Hamden, CT · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Hamden, CT · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Lowell, MA · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Lowell, MA · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Orlando, FL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Orlando, FL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Pensacola, FL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Pensacola, FL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Aurora, IL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Aurora, IL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Bellevue, NE · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Bellevue, NE · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Hampton, VA · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Hampton, VA · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Hartford, CT · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Hartford, CT · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Overland Park, KS · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Overland Park, KS · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Morgantown, WV · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Morgantown, WV · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Tucson, AZ · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Tucson, AZ · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Brookings, SD · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Brookings, SD · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Laramie, WY · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Laramie, WY · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Springfield, IL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Springfield, IL · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Kenosha, WI · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Kenosha, WI · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Tulsa, OK · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Tulsa, OK · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Wilmington, NC · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Wilmington, NC · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Portland, OR · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Portland, OR · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
El Paso, TX · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
El Paso, TX · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Rochester, MN · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Rochester, MN · On-site
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic ...
Air Controller information
See salary details
$55K - $66K
1% of jobs
$66K - $76.9K
4% of jobs
$76.9K - $87.9K
9% of jobs
$97.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$87.9K - $98.8K
13% of jobs
$98.8K - $109.8K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $115.6K / yr.
$109.8K - $120.7K
15% of jobs
$120.7K - $131.7K
15% of jobs
$134.7K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$131.7K - $142.6K
11% of jobs
$142.6K - $153.6K
9% of jobs
$153.6K - $164.5K
5% of jobs
$164.5K - $175.5K
3% of jobs
$55K
$119.5K
$175.5K
How much do air controller jobs pay per year?
As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for air controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Can a 40 year old become an air traffic controller?
Air traffic controllers can be of various ages, and there is no maximum age limit for entry as long as candidates meet the required qualifications, including education, training, and medical standards. Many controllers start their careers later in life, provided they pass the necessary assessments and obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority. Age is generally not a barrier if the individual can meet the physical and mental demands of the job.
Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?
Air traffic controllers typically earn much more than $10,000 per year, with median salaries often exceeding $130,000 annually in the United States. Entry-level positions usually start around $40,000 to $50,000, and experienced controllers can earn significantly higher, especially with overtime and certifications. Compensation depends on experience, location, and the complexity of the control tower or center.
How do I 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. Applicants must pass medical exams, background checks, and aptitude tests, and often require strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure in a high-stakes environment.
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 relevant education, such as a degree or military experience, and must complete specialized training, which can be rigorous and demanding. The hiring process often involves multiple stages and a high level of skill and focus.
More about Air Controller jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Controller jobs? Cities with the most Air Controller job openings:
What states have the most Air Controller jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Controller jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Air Controller jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Controller jobs are:
United States Navy rating
6.3
Based on 378 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
38th of 45 rated military and defense
Job description
ABOUT
Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain extensive training in radar, sonar, and air traffic communications. If you feel more at home above the sea than on it, a career in aviation might be for you. Below are some examples of the vast opportunities in this field.
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER
Commercial airlines aren’t the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways, inclement weather and mechanical issues to get personnel safely to the ground. Navy aircraft are
moving all the time, so it’s your responsibility to organize air traffic and communicate critical information to pilots. With extensive training in radar and air traffic communications, this rate is one of the easiest to translate into a civilian career post−service. As an Air Traffic Controller, you can command the skies.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the most complex, high−stakes exercises on the planet. It’s no small task to ensure that each aircraft that leaves the flight deck performs its mission successfully and returns home safely. Navy Air Traffic Controllers are essential in directing the everyday complexities above and below the flight deck.
Their responsibilities include:
- Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat
- Operating radio communication systems and light signals
- Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator
- Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft
- Interpreting data shown on radar screens to plot aircraft positions
- Operating tactical weapons, sensors, and communications equipment
- Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems
PAY AND BENEFITS
From the day you start, you’ll receive:
- Competitive salary
- Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
- Free health insurance
- Free housing
- A retirement plan
- Paid training
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
- Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
- Post−9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
- Professional credentials and certifications
- College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- U.S. citizen or equivalent
- High school graduate or equivalent
- 17 years of age or older
General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before, or whether you’ve never served before.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Make the world your home. You may be assigned to sea or shore squadrons on almost any continent. You will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments—from airborne aircraft to hangars, hangar decks to flight decks and flight lines at air stations and on aircraft carriers.
PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES
The role above is an Active Duty opportunity in the Navy, however there are part-time roles available in Air Support for the Navy. Serving part−time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
What United States Navy employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About US Navy
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US