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Air Traffic Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

D01 Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Denver, CO

$40K - $80K/yr

We are looking for an experienced, Part-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Denver TRACON (D01), located in Denver, CO ...

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$33K

$101.4K

$172.5K

How much do air traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for air traffic control 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 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.

Do air traffic controllers make good money?

Air traffic controllers typically earn a high salary due to the demanding nature of their work, with median annual wages often exceeding $130,000. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and certifications, and the job includes shift work and high responsibility for safety. The profession also offers benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Traffic Controller, and why are they important?

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 qualifications do you need to be an air traffic controller?

To become an air traffic controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree or higher, pass a series of FAA or relevant authority exams, and complete specialized training at an approved facility. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential, along with meeting medical and background requirements.

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.

Is it hard to get hired as an air traffic controller?

Getting hired as an air traffic controller is competitive and requires passing a series of tests, including aptitude assessments, medical exams, and background checks. Candidates typically need to complete specialized training and obtain certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority, which can be a rigorous process.

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.

Why can't you be an air traffic controller after 31?

Air traffic control careers typically have age limits due to the high mental and physical demands of the job, with many agencies setting maximum entry ages around 30 or 31. These limits help ensure controllers can meet the required response times and cognitive performance throughout their careers, which often involve shift work and high-stress situations.
More about Air Traffic Control jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Traffic Control jobs? Cities with the most Air Traffic Control 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 jobs? States with the most job openings for Air Traffic Control jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Air Traffic Control jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Traffic Control jobs are:
Air Traffic Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Control job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,385 per year, or $48.7 per hour.
MSY Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

MSY Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Science Applications International Corporation

New Orleans, LA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job description


  • ATTN FERS RETIREES: Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site Supervisor working on this program are EXEMPT from the Supplemental Annuity earnings limits for FERS retirees between the ages of 56 and 62.

We are looking for an experienced, Part-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor-I to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl ATCT/TRACON (MSY), located in New Orleans, LA, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The CTS Instructor-I is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to effectively and consistently deliver the highest quality classroom instruction to a wide variety of students including developmental air traffic controllers and Certified Professional Controllers (CPC).
The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate strong technical skills with current ATC systems and procedures. This position may provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO), and may participate in curriculum design and development. The selected candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills applicable for obtaining classroom instruction certifications at FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.
To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • The CTS Instructor candidate must have a minimum of five (5) years of FAA CPC experience controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or greater] level of ATC facility as the Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl ATCT/TRACON (MSY)

Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl ATCT/TRACON (MSY) is preferred but not required
  • Demonstrated ability to interface effectively with FAA personnel at all levels to ensure the delivery of training services meet the needs of the local facility, as well as the FAA's overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired
  • Experience demonstrating excellent teaching and/or platform skills, classroom management techniques, and a student-focused drive for continuous improvement

Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required
  • FAA Certified Professional Controller (CPC) certification required with the ability to obtain and maintain Instructor-I Certification

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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