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Air Traffic Control Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an experienced, Full-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Portland TRACON (P80) in Portland, OR, supporting air ...

TMA Driver

Portland, OR

$18 - $24.50/hr

Traffic Control Manager About AGS Based in Portland, Oregon, Advanced Government Services has delivered traffic control and road safety services since 2003. We provide traffic control, ITS Solutions ...

TMA Driver

Portland, OR · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Traffic Control Manager About AGS Based in Portland, Oregon, Advanced Government Services has delivered traffic control and road safety services since 2003. We provide traffic control, ITS Solutions ...

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Air Traffic Control information

See Oregon salary details

$34.9K

$107.2K

$182.4K

How much do air traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control in Oregon is $107,193.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $142,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is air traffic control?

Air traffic control (ATC) is a service provided by ground-based controllers who direct aircraft on the ground and in the air to ensure safe and orderly flow of air traffic. Air traffic controllers monitor and communicate with pilots to provide instructions for takeoff, landing, and flight paths, helping to prevent collisions and manage aircraft efficiently. Their work is critical for maintaining safety in the skies, especially around busy airports and congested airspace. ATC also assists with rerouting aircraft in response to weather, emergencies, or changing flight conditions.

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

To thrive as an Air Traffic Controller, you need excellent spatial awareness, strong decision-making skills, and must meet rigorous educational and certification requirements, such as passing the FAA Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative or equivalent. Familiarity with radar systems, radio communication protocols, and flight-tracking software is essential for managing air traffic safely. Outstanding communication, stress management, and multitasking abilities distinguish top performers in this high-pressure role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient flow of air traffic and minimizing risks in complex airspace environments.

What are some common challenges faced by air traffic controllers during high-traffic periods?

Air Traffic Controllers often encounter significant challenges during peak traffic periods, such as maintaining situational awareness amid a high volume of simultaneous flights. They must quickly process and prioritize information, communicate clearly with multiple pilots, and coordinate with other controllers to ensure safety and efficiency. Stress management and decisive problem-solving are crucial, as split-second decisions can have a major impact. Teamwork and adherence to established protocols help manage these high-pressure situations effectively.

What is the difference between Air Traffic Control vs Air Traffic Management?

AspectAir Traffic ControlAir Traffic Management
CertificationsFAA or equivalent radar and communication certificationsSimilar certifications, with additional focus on planning and coordination
Work EnvironmentControl towers, radar facilities, en-route centersAirports, regional planning offices, strategic coordination centers
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, airports, government agenciesAirports, airlines, aviation authorities
Job FocusDirectly managing aircraft movements in real-timeOverseeing broader air traffic flow and strategic planning

While both roles are essential in aviation safety, Air Traffic Control focuses on real-time aircraft movement management, whereas Air Traffic Management involves strategic planning and coordination of air traffic flow across regions.

How do you become an air traffic controller?

To become an air traffic controller, candidates typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass medical and background checks, and complete specialized training through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority. This training includes classroom instruction, simulations, and on-the-job training, and often requires passing the FAA's Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) test.

Is it hard to get an air traffic control job?

Becoming an air traffic controller is competitive and requires passing rigorous testing, medical exams, and background checks. Candidates typically need to complete specialized training and obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, making the hiring process challenging but structured for qualified applicants.

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Air Traffic Control jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Air Traffic Control job openings:

Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,193 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL)

US Department of the Air Force

Klamath Falls, OR

$89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.

This National Guard position is for a AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL), T58257000 and is part of the Oregon National Guard 173rd Fighter Wing, National Guard.

Qualifications:

AREAS OF CONSIDERATION:
Area 1: All on board permanent and indefinite T5 federal employees within the Oregon National Guard
Area 2: All on board permanent and indefinite T32 federal technicians within the Oregon National Guard
Area 3: All current non-permanent technicians/employees (T5 and T32) of the Oregon National Guard
Area 4: All current and former members of the Oregon National Guard (former members must provide documentation showing membership in the Oregon National Guard such as an NGB 22 or DD214)
GENERAL AND SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Work in this series covers positions concerned with: (1) the control of air traffic to insure the safe, orderly and expeditious movement along air routes and at airports when a knowledge of aircraft separation standards and control techniques, and the ability to apply them properly, often under conditions of great stress, are required; (2) providing preflight and in-flight assistance to aircraft requiring a knowledge of the information pilots need to conduct safe flights and the ability to present that information clearly and concisely; and/or (3) the development, coordination, and management of air traffic control programs. Positions in this occupation require an extensive knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, and procedures governing the movement of air traffic.
Experience in a military or civilian air traffic facility that demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the level of work of the specialization for which application is made. This experience must have provided a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate air traffic control laws, rules, and regulations.
For Terminal Positions: Issuing control instructions and advice to pilots in the vicinity of airports to assure proper separation of aircraft and to expedite their safe and efficient movement. This specialization also requires:
Ability to act decisively under stressful situations and to maintain alertness over sustained periods of pressure; Skill to coordinate plans and actions with pilots and other controllers; and Judgment to select and take the safest and most effective course of action from among several available choices.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
Maximum Entry Age - Under the provisions of 5 U.S.C. 3307, a maximum entry age has been established for Terminal and Center positions.
Personal Qualities - In addition to meeting all other requirements, applicants must demonstrate possession of the traits and characteristics important in air traffic control work. Applicants who meet the experience and training requirements will be required to appear for a preemployment interview to determine whether they possess the personal characteristics necessary for performance of air traffic control work.
Training Requirements - At all trainee and developmental levels, employees must learn the skills needed for operation at higher levels of responsibility. Failure of employees to meet training requirements for or accept promotion to higher grade air traffic control specialist positions may constitute grounds for reassignment, demotion, or separation from employment.
Certificate And Rating Requirements - Air traffic control specialists in all specializations must possess or obtain, within uniformly applicable time limits, the facility ratings required for full performance at the facility where the position is located. Applicants must possess or obtain a valid Air Traffic Control Specialist Certificate and/or Control Tower Operator Certificate, if appropriate. These certificates require demonstrating knowledge of basic meteorology, basic air navigation, standard air traffic control and communications procedures, the types and uses of air navigation aids, and regulations governing air traffic. Facility ratings require demonstration of a knowledge of the kind and location of radio aids to air navigation, the terrain, the landmarks, the communications systems and circuits, and the procedures peculiar to the area covered by the facility.
INITIAL EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS: In general, air traffic control specialist applicants and employees must have the capacity to perform the essential functions of these positions without risk to themselves or others. The provision of sufficient information about physical capacity for employment requires that before appointment applicants undergo appropriate pre-employment physical/medical evaluations. The physical impairments/medical conditions that follow, unless otherwise noted, are disqualifying because there are medical and/or management reasons to conclude that an individual with such impairment/condition cannot perform the duties of the position without unacceptable risk to his or her own health, or to the health or safety of others (employees or the public).
For additional medical requirements please use the link below:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/2100/air-traffic-control-series-2152
Applicants who meet one of the DoD Priority Placement Program categories below are eligible to apply with this preference.

  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade

Applicants claiming Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible must submit the following documentation:
- Military Reserve and National Guard Technician PPP Self Certification Checklist (DD 3145-3)
- Termination SF-50 Separation stating that the applicant has Priority Placement Eligibility
- Notice of Separation confirming of eligibility.
Applicants claiming Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement must submit the following documentation:
- Military Reserve and Technician Disability PPP Self Certification Checklist (DD 3145-2)
- Termination SF-50 Separation stating that the applicant has Priority Placement Eligibility
- Notice of Separation confirming of eligibility.
Applicant claiming Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Employees must submit the following documentation:
-DoD Retained Grade Self Certification Checklist (DD 3145-1)
- SF-50 effecting the placement in retained grade status
- Copy of the notification letter the employee received (RIF or classification downgrade)
Applicants claiming Priority Placement Program, Military Spouse Preference must submit the following documentation:
- DoD Military Spouse Preference Self Certification Checklist (DD 3145-4)
- Sponsor's PCS Orders
- Proof of Military member's current active duty status
- Marriage Certificate

Education:If you are using education to qualify for this position, you must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims.Employment Type: OTHER