ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ORD Air Traffic Control Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

National Airspace System. Education: * High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required * FAA ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

SAIC

AUS Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Austin, TX · On-site

National Airspace System. The CTS Instructor is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to ... ing services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAir Traffic Control Systems Engineer Jobs

Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$61K

$108.8K

$175.5K

How much do air traffic control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control systems engineer in the United States is $108,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do air traffic engineers earn?

Air Traffic Control Systems Engineers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior engineers or those working in high-demand areas may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires specialized training and security clearances.

What is the difference between Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectAir Traffic Control Systems EngineerAir Traffic Controller
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in systems or avionicsFAA certification, training in air traffic control procedures
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and maintain control systems, often in offices or labsOperate in control towers, airports, or en-route centers
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, defense, and aviation technology companiesAirports, airlines, and air traffic control agencies

While both roles are vital in aviation, the Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer focuses on designing and maintaining the systems that support air traffic management, whereas the Air Traffic Controller manages aircraft movements directly in the airspace and at airports. Their skills and work environments differ, but both are essential for safe and efficient air travel.

What does an Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer do?

An Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains the complex systems that support air traffic control operations. This includes radar, communication, navigation, and surveillance equipment used to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. They work closely with air traffic controllers, technicians, and regulatory agencies to ensure these systems meet strict safety and reliability standards. Their role is crucial in modernizing airspace management and integrating new technologies into national and international air traffic control infrastructures.

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

Air Traffic Control Systems Engineers typically do not have age restrictions like air traffic controllers do. The age limit for air traffic controllers is due to the high mental and physical demands of the role, which require quick decision-making and alertness, but engineering roles generally focus on technical skills and experience without strict age limits.

Do air traffic controllers make 300k?

Air traffic control systems engineers typically do not earn $300,000 annually; salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications. While senior or specialized engineers in the field can reach high six-figure incomes, most salaries are below that threshold, especially in entry- and mid-level positions. High earnings are more common among experienced professionals working in high-cost areas or with advanced responsibilities.

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

To thrive as an Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or systems engineering, with expertise in radar, communications, and navigation systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry standards (such as FAA or ICAO regulations), proficiency in simulation software, and experience with systems integration tools are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills set standout professionals apart. These skills and qualities are critical to designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable systems that ensure the safety and efficiency of air traffic operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Air Traffic Control Systems Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Air Traffic Control Systems Engineers often face challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy and new systems, maintaining the highest safety standards during transitions, and minimizing disruptions to live air traffic operations. Integration projects require close collaboration with software developers, hardware engineers, and regulatory authorities to ensure compliance and seamless operation. Engineers must also manage tight timelines and adapt to evolving regulations, making strong communication and project management skills essential for success.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles requiring advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience are typically associated with such high compensation levels.
More about Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer jobs
What states have the most Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer jobs are:
Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 12% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,776 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Denver, Air Traffic Control Instructor, FAA Regional Training Site

Denver, Air Traffic Control Instructor, FAA Regional Training Site

SAIC

Denver, CO • On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 204 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2612250
Location: Denver, CO, US
Date Posted: 2026-05-06
Category: Training
Subcategory: Training Analyst
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: No
Minimum Clearance Required: None
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
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.

We are looking for experienced, former FAA Tower Air Traffic Controllers to join the SAIC team providing ATC, TSEW, TETRA and RTF training, and instructional services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) at the FAA Regional Training Site located in Denver, CO.
Job Description:
SAIC is a leading provider of technical, engineering and enterprise information technology services to the U.S. government. Our 25,000+ employees deliver systems engineering and information technology offerings for large, complex government programs, as well as a broad range of higher-end, differentiated technology services. The company is headquartered in Reston, VA.
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.
Qualifications
Basic Requirements:
Candidates for these positions must have:
  • A high school diploma or equivalent and
  • Candidates for these instructor positions shall have a minimum of 3 years of FAA CPC or equivalent Military ATCS experience in a civilian/military ATCT or ATCT/TRACON or other equivalent civilian facility. This experience must have been at a facility equal to or exceeding an ATC facility level 7, up to and including level 9
  • ship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills:
  • Candidates with TSEW and/or Level 11-12 experience are also desired

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply