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Air Traffic Control Trainee Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

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Air Traffic Control Trainee information

See Utah salary details

$23.2K

$84.2K

$165.7K

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control trainee in Utah is $84,171.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $108,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

Can I be an air traffic control trainee with no experience?

Yes, many air traffic control training programs do not require prior experience, but applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria such as education requirements, passing aptitude tests, and obtaining necessary certifications. Training typically includes classroom instruction and on-the-job simulations to develop the required skills. Strong communication, decision-making, and multitasking abilities are essential for success in this role.

How do you start a career as an air traffic control trainee?

To start a career as an air traffic control trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a series of aptitude and skills assessments, and meet specific age and health requirements. Many trainees pursue a bachelor's degree in aviation, air traffic management, or related fields, and must obtain certification from the relevant aviation authority before advancing to full controller roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Control jobs in Utah?

The most popular types of Air Traffic Control jobs in Utah are:

What cities in Utah are hiring for Air Traffic Control Trainee jobs?

Cities in Utah with the most Air Traffic Control Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control Trainee job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,171 per year, or $40.5 per hour.

TOWER AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST

Layton, UT • On-site

The Air Force Civilian Service
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$86K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide visual flight rules (VFR) air traffic control services to aircraft operating near the airport or on the controlled movement area, ensuring safe, orderly, and efficient air traffic flow.

  • Control aircraft during taxi, take-off, landing, and in the local traffic pattern, and direct vehicular traffic on the airfield movement areas using radio communications and light signals.

  • Monitor weather conditions, operate communication equipment, and provide emergency response assistance related to aircraft and vehicle operations on the airfield.


Air Force Civilian Service rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 98 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 50 rated military and defense


Job description

Come be a part of something big!
Smart Minds, Cool Jobs and Awesome Rewards! Fueled by innovation, talent and ambition, the Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is seeking civilian professionals prepared to deploy war-winning capabilities for the Department of the Air Force (DAF).
The Air Force Civilian Service (AFCS) is looking for a Full-Time TOWER AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (GS-2152-11) to work at Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) - 75th Air Base Wing, on Hill AFB in Layton, UT. This federal job offers a rewarding and exciting career with benefits.
This job may close at any time! Apply now!!!
2026 Salary Range: $86,123-$111,966 Yearly
Job Open Date: 08/26/2026
Job Close Date: 09/15/2026
Who May Apply: U.S. Citizens
RESUME: Your resume may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. The two-page resume ensures the most relevant experience is reviewed and considered, which is a common practice in both the public and private sectors. You will not be considered for this vacancy if your resume is illegible/unreadable. Additional information on how to complete the two-page resume is located at https://help.usajobs.gov/faq/application/documents/resume/page-limit.
In this position you will provide visual flight rules (VFR) air traffic control services to aircraft operating in the vicinity of an airport or on the controlled movement area of the airfield, providing for the safe, orderly, and expeditious air traffic flow. Controls aircraft during taxi, take-off, landing, and in the local traffic pattern. Directs all vehicular traffic operating on the airfield movement areas through the use of radio communications and/or light signals. Provides emergency response assistance to aircraft and vehicles operating in the vicinity of the airport and on the airfield/controlled movement area. In the event of an emergency, activates the primary crash phones and passes on pertinent information on aircraft emergencies to the appropriate agencies. On a rotational basis, may perform duties as Controller-in-Charge (CIC).
Responsible for the overall operations of the facility when performing as the CIC and maintains general situational awareness of air traffic. May be asked to assist facility management with developing or revising local procedural guidance in response to mission requirements. Monitors weather conditions and ensures optimum use of airfield runways and operational facilities. Operates air -to-ground radios, ramp net radios, landlines, interphones, radiotelephones, light guns, and intercom equipment in order to affect communications regarding safe, expeditious, and efficient movement of aircraft and vehicles in the airport operating area. Provides basic and journeyman training for personnel to meet certification requirements for upgrade and qualification in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) career field. Assists in development of training materials necessary to conduct a wide variety of training associated with ATC. Directly monitors personnel in training and maintains ability to over-ride or amend trainee controller instructions to aircraft and other agencies. Teaches a wide variety of functional requirements, procedures, or techniques using Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), United States Air Force (USAF), MAJCOM, and local directives. Prepares and conducts training in a classroom, simulator, or designated alternate operating location. Provides remedial training as needed to personnel experiencing difficulty in accomplishing training requirements. May participate in developing withdrawal documentation packages for trainees who are unable to attain/maintain a certification or fulfill basic training requirements. Completes recurring proficiency examinations.
Requirements:
U.S. Citizenship
Obtain & maintain a Security clearance
This is a designated Drug Testing Position
Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical
The employee may be required to travel on military and commercial aircraft to perform temporary duty
Must possess valid air traffic controller certification and obtain/maintain currency of the same.
Must possess valid FAA Control Tower Operator (CTO) certification and obtain/maintain currency of the same.
Must possess current FAA Class II Medical Certificate for Air Traffic Control.
Must complete all training requirements within locally prescribed time limits to obtain and maintain a full facility rating in facility of assignment.
The incumbent must have the ability to meet and maintain on a continuing basis, the physical, mental, and medical standards for ATC duties as specified by the OPM qualification standard for GS-2152.
May be required to work an uncommon tour of duty, i.e., Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays, etc. May be required to work rotating shifts and overtime.
May be required to respond to short notice recall to support unscheduled emergency air traffic and/or contingencies/exercises to support the mission.
This position is covered as an Air Traffic Controller under 5 USC 2109.
This position is subject to the special retirement provisions for Air Traffic Controllers under CSRS and FERS (5 USC 3382, Involuntary Separation for Retirement; 5 USC 8335(a) and 8425(a), Mandatory Separation; 5 USC 8336(e) and 8412(e), Immediate Retirement; 5 USC 8339(e) and 8415(d), Computation of annuity).
The position may require the employee to work under adverse environmental conditions.
The incumbent must accomplish local limited weather observer certification requirements administered by base weather flight.
Recruitment Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations and procedures governing the movement of air traffic.
Knowledge of Terminal Air Traffic Control (ATC) Procedures, including tower procedures.
Knowledge of the functional/operational limitations of all ATC equipment, as well as approach lighting, airfield lighting, weather instructions, navigational aids (NAVAIDS), remote status indicators, arresting systems, landlines, and any other equipment pertaining to ATC services.
Knowledge of weather phenomena and localized effects.
Ability to make rapid and precise judgments in a real-time work situation, remain calm under conditions that are stressful, coordinate many different processes at once, and adjust rapidly to changes in the traffic pattern and tempo of work activity.
Ability to communicate effectively (rapidly, clearly, and distinctly) orally and in writing; to act decisively in emergency situations; and to provide appropriate reporting procedures as required.
Click the apply button to complete an application and upload a resume no more than 2 pages (PDF Form) and/or additional documents (Transcripts, certifications, Vet Docs (DD214), SF-50).
To receive additional information about current and future job openings with AFCS via email notification, please register at www.Afciviliancareers.com and sign up to "Get Career Updates."
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.
Equal Opportunity Employer. U.S. citizenship required. Must be of legal working age.

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