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Air Traffic Control Tower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Air Traffic Control Tower information

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$33K

$101.4K

$172.5K

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

As of Aug 7, 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?

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.

How to become an air traffic control tower?

To become an air traffic controller in an airport tower, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass FAA-administered tests, complete specialized training at an FAA academy, and obtain certification. Strong communication, decision-making skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for this role.

Do air traffic control tower work in a tower?

Yes, air traffic control tower personnel work in a tower environment, where they monitor and direct aircraft movements on runways and taxiways. They use radar, radios, and visual observations to ensure safe and efficient airport operations. This role requires specialized training, certification, and the ability to work in a high-pressure, team-oriented setting.

How to get a job in an air traffic control tower?

To become an air traffic controller in an air traffic control tower, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a series of FAA-administered tests, and complete specialized training at an FAA-approved facility. Applicants must also meet medical and background requirements and often need prior experience or education in aviation or related fields.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the air traffic control tower position?

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.

More about Air Traffic Control Tower jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Traffic Control Tower jobs? Cities with the most Air Traffic Control Tower job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Control Tower jobs? The most popular types of Air Traffic Control Tower jobs are:
What states have the most Air Traffic Control Tower jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Traffic Control Tower jobs include:
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Tower job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,385 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

Air Traffic Control Specialist - Bend, OR (BDN New Tower Commiss with Security Clearance

Serco Inc.

Redmond, OR • On-site

$36.05/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Position Description & Qualifications Position Description & Qualifications Are you an Air Traffic Controller looking for a once-in-a-career opportunity to help bring a brand-new control tower online? Serco is seeking experienced Air Traffic Control Specialists to be part of the founding team for a newly commissioned Federal Contract Tower (FCT) at Bend Municipal Airport in Bend, OR. This is a unique chance to play a critical role in shaping tower operations from the ground up, establishing procedures, building team culture, and supporting the safe integration of a new facility into the National Airspace System. Serco is one of the largest non-government Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSP) in the world. We deliver air traffic control (ATC) services for small and medium regional airports as well as the largest commercial air hub on the globe. Serco is also the only commercial ANSP to provide all the three ATC disciplines: Terminal Tower, Terminal Approach Control, and Enroute Center. No wonder we are one of the largest non-government employers of Air Traffic Controllers in the world! Air Traffic Control Specialists (ATCS) provide the safe, orderly, and expeditious movement of air traffic within the airport traffic area and movement areas. As a member of theinitial staffing team at Bend, you will contribute directly to the commissioning, operational readiness, and procedural development of a brand-new tower facility. This role offers the professional reward of helping establish operational standards, contributing to training development, and supporting collaborative partnerships during the facility's launch phase. What we offer: * The rate of pay for this position ranges from $36.05 per hour. As a member of the Air Traffic Control team, you can expect to: * Participate in pre-commissioning and operational readiness activities
* Answer radio calls from arriving/departing aircraft * Issue landing/takeoff instructions * Issue information such as runway usage, wind velocity/direction, visibility, taxiing instructions, and pertinent data on other aircraft operating in vicinity * Issue air traffic clearances * Perform critical weather observations as a Limited Aviation Weather Reporting Station (LAWRS) observer, and to disseminate timely weather information to pilots, other air traffic control facilities and other users of the National Airspace System. * Transfer and receive control of aircraft * Operate equipment such as: radios, telephones, interphones, computer systems, radar, recording systems, weather equipment, light guns, airport/runway lighting systems, backup equipment, etc. * Alert Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighters and other first responders to aircraft experiencing emergency situations * Coordinate with and issue instructions to airport vehicles/personnel * Maintain and disseminate records of daily operations * Perform on-the-job training instructor duties as required * Support safety, compliance, and a strong team culture during facility startup Requirements to join the team: * US Citizenship * An FAA Second Class Medical Certificate * A Control Tower Operator (CTO) rating or a Credential with a Tower Rating and 6 months of practical experience in accordance with 14 CFR Part 65.39 * * Note: For Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) who have held a Credential with a Tower Rating, the FAA recognizes they have met the knowledge requirements listed in 14 CFR §65.35 and the experience requirements listed in 14 CFR §65.39 * Eligibility to work for Serco under Federal Immigration Laws * Verification of education and employment references from previous employers including the release of drug and alcohol records * Passing a pre-employment drug screen * Receiving an FAA Security clearance (interim and final suitability) * Proof of identity and eligibility to work in the United States At Serco, professional development is a priority. We support our controllers with training, growth opportunities, and pathways to leadership. If you are an experienced Air Traffic Controller looking to make an impact and be part of something new, we invite you to apply today. Company Overview Serco Inc. (Serco) is the Americas division of Serco Group, plc. In North America, Serco's 9,000+ employees strive to make an impact every day across 100+ sites in the areas of Defense, Citizen Services, and Transportation. We help our clients deliver vital services more efficiently while increasing the satisfaction of their end customers. Serco serves every branch of the U.S. military, numerous U.S. Federal civilian agencies, the Intelligence Community, the Canadian government, state, provincial and local governments, and commercial clients. While your place may look a little different depending on your role, we know you will find yours here. Wherever you work and whatever you do, we invite you to discover your place in our world. Serco is a place you can count on and where you can make an impact because every contribution matters. To review Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/what-we-offer . If you require an accommodation with the application process please email: or call the HR Service Desk at 800-628-6458, option 1. Please note, due to EEOC/OFCCP compliance, Serco is unable to accept resumes by email. Candidates may be asked to present proof of identify during the selection process. If requested, this will require presentation of a government-issued I.D. (with photo) with name and address that match the information entered on the application. Serco will not take possession of or retain/store the information provided as proof of identity. For more information on how Serco uses your information, please see our Applicant Privacy Policy and Notice. Serco does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies without being a contracted approved vendor. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Serco and will not be obligated to pay a placement or contract fee. If you are interested in becoming an approved vendor at Serco, please email . Serco is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. Pay Transparency Our Total Rewards package includes competitive pay, performance-based incentives, and benefits that promote well-being and work-life balance-so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Eligible employees also gain access to a wide range of benefits from comprehensive health coverage and health savings accounts to retirement plans, life and disability insurance, and time-off programs that support work-life balance. Program availability may vary based on factors such as contract type, location, hire date, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. Salary range: The hourly amount for this position can be found at the top of this posting. This role is covered by the Service Contract Act. For positions on this contract, we will pay the prevailing wage rate for the location in which the employee is working, as determined by the Department of Labor and the Wage Determination (WD). The wage rate will vary depending on the locality. Additionally, you will receive Health and Welfare Benefits based on the WD for the contract. Benefits - Comprehensible benefits for full-time employees (part-time members receive a limited package tailored to their role): * Medical, dental, and vision insurance * Robust vacation and sick leave benefits, and flexible work arrangements where permitted by role or contract * 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds * Tuition reimbursement program * Life insurance and disability coverage * Optional coverages that can be purchased, including pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection * Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits * Employee Assistance Plan that includes counseling conditions * Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific contract as well as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement or Service Contract Labor Standards. To review all Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/about-us . Serco complies with all applicable state and local leave laws, including providing time off under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act for eligible Colorado residents, in alignment with our policies and benefit plans. The application window for this position is for no more than 60 days. We encourage candidates to apply promptly after the posting date, as the position may close earlier if filled or if the application volume exceeds expectations. Please submit applications exclusively through Serco's external (or internal) career site. If an applicant has any concerns with job posting compliance, please send an email to: .