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Air Traffic Control Supervisor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$87K - $135K/yr

Summary You will serve as an Air Traffic Control Specialist in the Ranges, Targets Operations, Instrumentation & Labs Group, Sea Range Operations Division of NAVAIRWARCENWPNDIV POINT MUGU. Learn more ...

New

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC ...

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC ...

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC ...

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC ...

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC ...

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Full-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC ...

Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site ... We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC ...

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Air Traffic Control Supervisor information

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$25.5K

$78.4K

$147K

How much do air traffic control supervisor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control supervisor in the United States is $78,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $96,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Air Traffic Control Supervisor do?

An Air Traffic Control Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the operations of air traffic controllers to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within assigned airspace and on the ground at airports. They manage staffing schedules, provide training and guidance, monitor controller performance, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Supervisors also coordinate with other aviation professionals during emergencies or unusual situations. Their role is crucial in maintaining safety standards and operational efficiency in air traffic control environments.

Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?

Air traffic control supervisors typically earn well above $10,000 per month, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certification level. Entry-level salaries usually start around $50,000 annually, and experienced supervisors can earn over $150,000 annually. Overtime, shift differentials, and benefits also contribute to overall compensation.

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

AspectAir Traffic Control SupervisorAir Traffic Controller
Required CertificationsFAA Air Traffic Control Tower Certification, supervisory trainingFAA Air Traffic Control Tower Certification
Work EnvironmentSupervises air traffic control operations at airports or centersManages aircraft movements directly in control towers or en route centers
Employer & Industry UsageAirports, FAA, militaryAirports, FAA, military

The main difference is that Air Traffic Control Supervisors oversee and coordinate the work of Air Traffic Controllers, ensuring safety and efficiency, while Air Traffic Controllers handle the direct management of aircraft movements. Supervisors typically have additional leadership responsibilities but require similar certifications and work in the same environments.

Can diabetes be air traffic controller?

Air Traffic Control Supervisors must meet health and fitness standards, including good vision and overall physical health. Having diabetes does not automatically disqualify someone, but they must manage the condition effectively and pass medical examinations required by aviation authorities. Each individual's case is evaluated based on their health status and ability to perform safety-critical duties.

Why can't you be an air traffic controller after 30?

Air Traffic Control Supervisor roles typically do not have an upper age limit, but becoming an air traffic controller often requires passing medical and vision exams, and training programs may have age restrictions due to the demanding nature of the job. Age can impact eligibility for initial training or certification, but experience and health are the primary factors considered.

What are some common challenges faced by Air Traffic Control Supervisors, and how do they support their teams during high-pressure situations?

Air Traffic Control Supervisors often encounter challenges such as managing high traffic volumes, coordinating between multiple control sectors, and ensuring team members remain focused during emergencies or peak periods. They support their teams by providing clear communication, real-time guidance, and making critical decisions to maintain safety and efficiency. Supervisors also facilitate debriefings after stressful events to address concerns and promote continuous improvement, fostering a supportive and resilient work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Traffic Control Supervisor, and why are they important?

To excel as an Air Traffic Control Supervisor, you need a solid background in air traffic control operations, a relevant certification such as an FAA Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate, and significant experience in the field. Familiarity with radar systems, communication equipment, and air traffic management software is crucial. Leadership, decision-making, and excellent communication skills are vital for managing teams and ensuring the safe flow of air traffic. These skills and qualities are essential to maintain safety, efficiency, and effective coordination within high-pressure environments.

What is the role of an air traffic control supervisor?

An air traffic control supervisor oversees air traffic controllers to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within controlled airspace and at airports. They coordinate staffing, monitor operations, and handle emergencies or unusual situations, often requiring certification and strong communication skills. The role involves managing schedules and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
More about Air Traffic Control Supervisor jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Traffic Control Supervisor jobs? Cities with the most Air Traffic Control Supervisor job openings:
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Supervisor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,420 per year, or $37.7 per hour.
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST

Naval Air Systems Command

On-site, Remote

$87K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Summary
You will serve as an Air Traffic Control Specialist in the Ranges, Targets Operations, Instrumentation & Labs Group, Sea Range Operations Division of NAVAIRWARCENWPNDIV POINT MUGU.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • You will provide direct radar air traffic control services, including radar vectors, altitude assignments, airspeed adjustments, and aircraft separation for manned and unmanned aircraft.
  • You will operate communication gear and air traffic control display consoles to maintain positive control, provide emergency assistance, and prevent mid-air collisions.
  • You will coordinate the real-time use of airspace and surface-space to ensure ranges are clear of non-participating traffic for the safe execution of test, evaluation, and training operations.
  • You will coordinate initial separation, sequencing, and intra-facility handoffs seamlessly with adjacent air traffic control facilities.
  • You will serve as an instructor providing on-the-job and classroom training, mentoring, and performance critiques for developmental air traffic control personnel.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Generally, current federal employees applying for STRL jobs must serve at least one year at the next lower pay band. This requirement is called time-in-band. Time-in-band requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
  • Candidates for ATC positions must not have reached their 36th birthday by date of appointment. Information on exceptions and waivers can be found: http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/140025_vol331.pdf.
  • You will be required to successfully complete a pre-appointment physical examination.
  • Air traffic control specialists must possess the facility ratings required at the facility where the position is located. You will be required to maintain a valid Air Traffic Control Specialist and/or Control Tower Operator Certificate.
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test (including marijuana) is required. A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if you fail to report to the drug test appointment or fail the test. You will be subject to random testing.
  • This position may require travel from normal duty station to CONUS and OCONUS and may include remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain a current Military Radar Unit (MRU) Controller certification.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain a current Test Controller (TC) certification.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain a current Control Tower Operator (CTO) certification.

Qualifications
Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09) or pay band (DS-03) in the federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience includes the following: 1) Providing direct radar air traffic control services, including radar vectors, altitude assignments, and aircraft separation; 2) Utilizing air traffic control display consoles and communication systems to maintain positive aircraft control; 3) Making real-time safety-of-flight decisions to prevent air collisions and manage heavy air traffic peaks; 4) Coordinating airspace use, handoffs, and sequencing with adjacent air traffic control facilities; and 5) Ensuring designated test or training ranges are clear of non-participants to safely conduct flight operations.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management web site:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2100/air-traffic-control-series-2152.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Additional information
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
Additional vacancies may be filled by this announcement.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
During the application process you will have a the ability to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions in the local commuting area. Depending on the hiring organization and the position being filled, job requirements (e.g., security clearance, travel, drug testing, financial disclosure filing, bargaining unit status, etc.) may vary. Other hiring managers filling similar positions may offer relocation expense reimbursement and/or may offer recruitment incentives for new employees, depending on funding availability and in accordance with policy. If you opt-in and are referred on a certificate, your resume will be available to other hiring managers for 180-days from the date the job announcement closes. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf
PPP applicants will be placed at the FPL, if determined Well Qualified (WQ). To receive priority consideration, the FPL must be the same grade level or equivalent of the retained grade or the grade held immediately prior to separation.
In addition to meeting all minimum qualification and eligibility requirements, ICTAP applicants must be well qualified for the position to receive consideration for special priority selection. A well-qualified ICTAP applicant is one who possesses the competencies and experience to perform the duties of the position successfully with orientation to learn/understand the activities, procedures, policies and processes. Demonstrated work experience in the occupation is typically qualifying for placement. This criterion cannot be met by education and training. ICTAP candidates must provide copies of all of the following documentation at the time of application: 1) agency notice; 2) most recent performance appraisal and 3) most recent SF-50 or notification of personnel action that includes position, grade level, and duty location. Applicants who do not provide this documentation will not receive consideration as an ICTAP candidate.
For more information about ICTAP eligibility please review the following link: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/working-in-government/unique-hiring-paths/federal-employees/career-transition/
Military Spouse Preference applicants will be placed at the highest grade for which they have applied and are determined Best Qualified (BQ). A BQ military spouse possesses knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies comparable to others who meet the competitive referral criteria for the specific position.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

Naval Air Systems Command logo

About Naval Air Systems Command

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is a major command within the U.S. Department of the Navy, based in Maryland, US. As a vital component of the Navy's overarching structure, NAVAIR operates within the defense industry, providing comprehensive support to naval aviation aircraft, weapons and systems. NAVAIR is historically rooted in the consolidation of the Naval Air Ordnance Test Station (NAOTS) and the Naval Air Test Center (NATC), molding its legacy in the American naval aviation's innovation and advancement. The command's core values align with the larger Navy's, emphasizing Honor, Courage, and Commitment - principles guiding their interactions and decisions.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Patuxent River, MD, US