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Air Traffic Control Trainee information

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$25.5K

$92.5K

$182K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control trainee in the United States is $92,458.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectAir Traffic Control TraineeAir Traffic Controller
CredentialsRequires FAA or relevant certification, training programsCertified Air Traffic Controller with full certification
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, simulation labs, on-the-job trainingControl towers, approach control centers, en-route facilities
Job StatusTraining phase, learning proceduresFully qualified, responsible for managing air traffic

In summary, an Air Traffic Control Trainee is in the learning and certification phase, focusing on training and gaining experience, while an Air Traffic Controller is fully qualified, actively managing air traffic in operational environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air traffic control trainee?

To thrive as an Air Traffic Control Trainee, you need strong analytical skills, spatial awareness, and decision-making abilities, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent and passing the FAA Air Traffic Selection and Training (AT-SAT) exam. Familiarity with radar systems, air traffic control simulation software, and communication equipment is fundamental during training. Exceptional concentration, stress management, and clear verbal communication are vital soft skills for effective performance. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient coordination of aircraft in complex and high-pressure airspace environments.

What is an air traffic control trainee?

Air Traffic Control Trainees are individuals in the process of becoming certified air traffic controllers. They receive specialized training to learn how to monitor and direct aircraft movements both on the ground and in the air, ensuring safety and efficiency. Trainees typically undergo classroom instruction, simulations, and on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced controllers. The goal is to prepare them to manage real-life air traffic situations and eventually qualify for full controller certification.

What are some common challenges faced by air traffic control trainees during their training period?

Air Traffic Control Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced and high-stress environment of the control room, mastering complex communication protocols, and developing the ability to make quick, accurate decisions under pressure. Training involves rigorous simulations and on-the-job learning, which can be mentally demanding. Trainees must also learn to work effectively as part of a closely coordinated team, often rotating shifts, which requires strong adaptability and focus.
More about Air Traffic Control Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Traffic Control Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Air Traffic Control Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Control jobs? The most popular types of Air Traffic Control jobs are:
What states have the most Air Traffic Control Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Traffic Control Trainee jobs include:
Air Traffic Control Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Trainee 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 $92,458 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL) -T32

US Department of the Air Force

Camp Douglas, WI • On-site

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 12 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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