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Air Traffic Control Tower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

LGSTX Services

Control Tower Operator

Wilmington, OH

The Tower Operator will be responsible for the separation of air traffic in accordance with FAA regulations and guidance while working the local and ground control positions. Job Functions: * Manage ...

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$33K

$101.4K

$172.5K

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

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control tower in the United States is $101,385.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Air Traffic Control Tower job?

An Air Traffic Control Tower job involves monitoring and directing aircraft movement in and around an airport to ensure safe takeoffs, landings, and ground operations. Air traffic controllers communicate with pilots, provide weather updates, issue clearances, and manage airspace to prevent collisions. They use radar, computers, and visual observation to track aircraft positions. This role requires strong focus, quick decision-making skills, and adherence to strict safety regulations.

Why can't you be an air traffic controller after 31?

Air traffic controllers typically have a maximum age limit of 30 or 31 due to FAA regulations, which aim to ensure controllers can meet the high physical and mental demands of the job over a long career. This age limit is set to promote safety, as the role requires quick decision-making, excellent vision, and the ability to handle stress consistently throughout a career. However, some exceptions or different regulations may apply depending on the country or specific agency policies.

How to get a job in control tower?

To become an air traffic control tower operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a series of assessments including written and skills tests, and complete specialized training provided by the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority. Certification and a background check are also required, and strong communication, decision-making, and stress management skills are essential for success in this role.

Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?

Air traffic controllers typically earn well above $10,000 per month, with median annual salaries around $130,000, depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. Entry-level controllers usually start lower but can reach higher salaries with experience and additional certifications. The job requires specialized training and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

What is a typical work environment like for someone in an Air Traffic Control Tower position?

Air Traffic Control Tower professionals typically work in high-security, climate-controlled tower facilities located at airports. The role involves closely monitoring aircraft movements on runways, taxiways, and in immediate airspace, interacting constantly with other controllers and pilots via radio communication. Shifts can be demanding and may include nights, weekends, and holidays due to the 24/7 nature of air travel. Most controllers work as part of a coordinated team, where fast and accurate communication is essential to maintain safety. The environment is structured but fast-paced, requiring focus and adaptability throughout each shift.

How to become an airport tower controller?

To become an airport tower controller, candidates typically need to obtain an FAA Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate, which requires passing a medical exam, a written test, and a skills assessment. Applicants must also have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass background checks, and complete specialized training at an FAA academy, gaining experience in radar and radio communication systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Air Traffic Control Tower position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Traffic Control Tower professional, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, quick decision-making abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent—often supplemented by completion of an FAA-approved training program and certification. Proficiency with radar systems, radio communication equipment, and air traffic management software is crucial. Exceptional stress management, teamwork, and clear communication skills help candidates excel in this high-pressure environment. These capabilities are essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations and effective coordination among pilots, ground crews, and other controllers.

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Air Traffic Control Tower jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Tower job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,385 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL) -T32

US Department of the Air Force

Camp Douglas, WI • On-site

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

This National Guard position is for a AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL) -T32, Position Description Number D1799000 and is part of the WI CRTC, Volk Field, Wisconsin Air National Guard.

Qualifications:GENERAL EXPERIENCE: Experience that prepares the applicant to perform the duties of this position. Air traffic control positions in terminals, above the trainee and developmental levels, are differentiated primarily by the influence of two factors: The competency levels required of the controllers and the complexity of the control environment. Experiences, education, or training that demonstrated the ability to follow directions and to read, understand, and retain a variety of instructions, regulations, and procedures and that otherwise demonstrates the ability to perform or learn to perform the duties of the position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: To qualify for the GS-2152-11 level, applicant must have at least 36 months of relevant experience. Must be a graduate of a formal DoD/DOT basic air traffic control course and be able to obtain and maintain a facility-rating in a single ATC facility (Radar Final Control (RFC)/Ground Controlled Approach (GCA)/Control Tower). Under general supervision, the GS-11 terminal controller performs regular duties in terminal operations, issuing control instructions to aircraft operating under visual or instrument flight rules or combinations of both. Have experience in a military or civilian as an Air Traffic Controller in a single ATC facility-rated control tower air traffic facility. Initiated and issued air traffic control clearances, instructions and advisories to ensure safe, orderly education, or training involving a thorough knowledge of product or range of products involved, the manufacturing method and expeditious flow of air traffic under instrument and visual flight rules. Experienced in conducting ATC facility training. Experienced in briefing shift personnel on runway utilization, airfield conditions and weather/ground activities. Prepared and updated flight following maps. Performed some shift supervision duties in a tactical or fixed tower, radar, or AIC. Maintained current DoD and DOT/FAA publications, ATC facility logs, forms, records and situation maps. Assisted in the preparation of TERPS.Education:
  • High school or general equivalent degree is mandatory.
  • An undergraduate academic specialization in a technical discipline with courses in administration and management is desirable.
  • Must be a graduate of a formal DoD/Department of Transportation (DOT) Basic Air Traffic Control course.
Employment Type: OTHER

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