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Air Traffic Control Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ORD Air Traffic Control Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

This position will provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO) as well as ... FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Education: * High ...

SAIC

CLT Air Traffic Control Instructor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

This position will provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO) as well as ... FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Education: * High ...

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

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air traffic control operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Traffic Control Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, quick decision-making abilities, and a relevant qualification such as an FAA Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program or military equivalent, along with passing the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA). Familiarity with radar systems, radio communication equipment, and specialized air traffic management software is crucial. Excellent communication, stress management, and teamwork are vital soft skills for coordinating safely and efficiently under pressure. These competencies ensure the safe, orderly, and efficient flow of air traffic, minimizing risks and maintaining public safety.

What are the most common challenges faced by air traffic control operators, and how are they addressed on the job?

Air Traffic Control Operators often face high-pressure situations where quick decision-making and precise communication are critical. Managing multiple aircraft simultaneously, coping with rapidly changing weather, and handling unexpected emergencies are common challenges. To address these, operators receive extensive training, use advanced radar and communication systems, and work closely with team members to maintain safety and efficiency. Regular briefings, teamwork, and strict adherence to protocols help mitigate stress and ensure coordinated operations.

What is the difference between Air Traffic Control Operator vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectAir Traffic Control OperatorAir Traffic Controller
CredentialsFAA certification, radar and communication trainingFAA certification, radar and communication training
Work EnvironmentControl towers, radar facilities, en-route centersControl towers, radar facilities, en-route centers
Employer & IndustryAirports, FAA, militaryAirports, FAA, military
Job FocusOperate radar and communication equipment, assist in traffic managementMonitor and direct aircraft movements, ensure safety

Both roles require similar certifications and work environments, focusing on managing aircraft movements. The main difference is that Air Traffic Control Operators often assist with radar and communication equipment operation, while Air Traffic Controllers directly manage aircraft traffic to ensure safety and efficiency.

What is an air traffic control operator?

Air Traffic Control Operators are professionals responsible for coordinating the safe and efficient movement of aircraft both in the air and on the ground. They use radar, radios, and computers to communicate with pilots, provide instructions, and monitor flight paths to prevent collisions. Their work is crucial for maintaining order and safety in busy airspaces and airports. Air Traffic Control Operators must be able to make quick decisions, work well under pressure, and communicate clearly. They typically work in control towers, approach control facilities, or en route centers.

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

Becoming an air traffic control operator is competitive and requires passing rigorous assessments, including written exams, medical evaluations, and background checks. Candidates typically need to complete specialized training and obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority, making the hiring process challenging and selective.

How do you become an air traffic control operator?

To become an air traffic control operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete specialized training through an FAA-approved program, and pass medical and background checks. They must also pass written, oral, and radar exams, and often complete a period of on-the-job training at an air traffic control facility.
What cities are hiring for Air Traffic Control Operator jobs? Cities with the most Air Traffic Control Operator job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Air Traffic Control Operator jobs? The top employers for Air Traffic Control Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Air Traffic Control Operator jobs? For Air Traffic Control Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Air Traffic Control Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,463 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

BHM Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Science Applications International Corporation

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 223 rated it services

Job description

  • ATTN FERS RETIREES: Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site Supervisor working on this program are EXEMPT from the Supplemental Annuity earnings limits for FERS retirees between the ages of 56 and 62.

Job Description:

We are looking for an experienced, Part-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Birmingham ATCT/TRACON (BHM), located at Birmingham, AL, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate strong technical skills with current ATC automation, simulation systems and procedures. This position may provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO), and may participate in curriculum design and development. The selected candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills applicable for obtaining radar and/or non-radar simulation laboratory certifications at FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System.
The CTS Instructor is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to effectively and consistently deliver the highest quality classroom and/or simulation laboratory training to a wide variety of students including developmental air traffic controllers and Certified Professional Controllers (CPC).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

Required Qualifications:

  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • The CTS Instructor candidate must have a minimum of five (5) years of FAA CPC experience controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or greater] level of ATC facility as the Birmingham ATCT/TRACON (BHM)

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Birmingham ATCT/TRACON (BHM) is preferred but not required
  • Operational Experience with ATC simulators including scenario design for simulation platforms (e.g. TSS, AT Coach, SGET, etc.).
  • Demonstrated ability to interface effectively with FAA personnel at all levels to ensure the delivery of training services meet the needs of the local facility, as well as the FAA's overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired
  • Experience demonstrating excellent teaching and/or platform skills, classroom management techniques, and a student-focused drive for continuous improvement

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required
  • FAA Certified Professional Controller (CPC) certification required with the ability to obtain and maintain Instructor-II Simulation Laboratory and Classroom Certification

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