1

Air Traffic Control Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

S. air travel. Peraton is seeking an Air Traffic Control SME to support the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in coordinating Surveillance Workstream operational, technical, and procedural ...

S. air travel. Peraton is seeking an Air Traffic Control SME to support the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in coordinating Surveillance Workstream operational, technical, and procedural ...

Air Traffic Control - SME

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

S. air travel. Peraton is seeking an Air Traffic Control SME to support the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in coordinating Surveillance Workstream operational, technical, and procedural ...

We are looking for an experienced, Full-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Washington ARTCC (ZDC), located at Leesburg, VA ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Air Traffic Control information

See Washington salary details

$37.4K

$114.8K

$195.4K

How much do air traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control in Washington is $114,828.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $152,900.00 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 Washington?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $114,828 per year, or $55.2 per hour.

Air Traffic Control - SME

Herndon, VA • On-site, Remote


Peraton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

52nd of 226 rated it services

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities

Join Peraton in advancing the safety, efficiency, and modernization of the National Airspace System (NAS) through the FAA's Brand New Air Traffic Control System (BNATCS) contract. As a trusted partner to the Federal Aviation Administration, Peraton helps deliver the systems and services that keep our nation's skies safe and connected. We're looking for innovative professionals who thrive in mission-critical environments and are passionate about shaping the future of air traffic management. This is your chance to make an impact on one of the world's most vital transportation infrastructures, working alongside leaders in aviation, engineering, data science, and systems integration.

At Peraton, you won't just support the mission - you'll define it.

Join a team dedicated to protecting the safety and integrity of U.S. air travel. Peraton is seeking an Air Traffic Control SME to support the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in coordinating Surveillance Workstream operational, technical, and procedural activities across multiple air traffic and traffic management facilities. This position serves as the primary interface between air traffic operations, engineering teams, and program management offices, ensuring that surveillance system enhancements, modernization efforts, and operational changes are fully aligned with the needs of the National Airspace System (NAS). The ideal candidate brings a solid background in Air Traffic Control (ATC), or NAS operations, combined with strong communication and coordination skills. This role requires a deep understanding of FAA operational concepts, facility coordination, and the ability to translate complex system requirements into practical, field-ready solutions.

Work Location:

  • Remote work is permitted; candidates must reside within the United States.
  • Must be able to travel up to 75% for site visits, assessments, or readiness reviews.

In this position, you will:

  • Serve as the liaison between Air Traffic Control (ATC) facilities, and FAA program teams.
  • Provide operational input to the planning, design, and implementation of NAS modernization initiatives.
  • Evaluate and communicate operational impacts of new surveillance technologies, systems upgrades, or procedural changes.
  • Coordinate operational readiness reviews and field evaluations across FAA facilities.
  • Support risk assessments, safety reviews, and integration planning for new or modified ATC systems.
  • Facilitate communication between controllers, engineers, and program management to resolve operational or technical issues.
  • Review and provide feedback on airspace procedures, automation system interfaces, and operational workflows.
  • Prepare and deliver briefings, reports, and operational recommendations to FAA leadership.

Why This Role Matters

The FAA's ability to maintain safe, efficient, and responsive airspace operations depend on seamless coordination between engineering, technology, and traffic management teams. As an ATC Liaison, you will play a critical role in bridging operational expertise and system development-ensuring that modernization projects enhance, rather than disrupt, air traffic operations. Your insights help ensure every new capability or infrastructure change directly supports safety, capacity, and operational efficiency across the NAS.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

  • U.S. Citizenship Required.
  • Must have the ability to obtain / maintain a Public Trust clearance. 
  • Bachelor's degree and 12 years of experience or Master's degree and 10 years or Associate's degree and 14 years experience or HS diploma/equivalent and 16 years experience. 
  • Experience in Air Traffic Control, Traffic Management, or NAS operational environments.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of Air Traffic Organization (ATO) procedures, Order JO 7110.65, and traffic flow management principles.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with engineering, safety, and operational stakeholders.
  • Experience preparing reports, impact analysis, and operational readiness documentation.
  • Experience supporting field facilities Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT) operations.
  • Demonstrated ability to facilitate coordination between field operations, engineering, and program management.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, data visualization, and reporting tools.
  • Ability to travel up to 75% for site visits, assessments, or readiness reviews as required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience working with or for the FAA
  • Master's degree in Aviation, Systems Engineering, or Transportation Management.
  • Prior experience as an FAA Air Traffic Controller or Airspace Procedures Specialist.
  • Experience with FAA facility transitions, system deployments, or technology integration projects.
  • Familiarity with Safety Management System (SMS) and Risk Management Framework (RMF) processes.
  • Professional certifications such as CCTM (Certified Control Tower Manager) or ATP/CFII credentials.
  • Strong background in change management and operational risk communication.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Peraton logo

About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017


What Peraton employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom