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Air Traffic Controller Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA

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 ...

Facilitate communication between controllers, engineers, and program management to resolve ... Experience in Air Traffic Control, Traffic Management, or NAS operational environments.

Facilitate communication between controllers, engineers, and program management to resolve ... Experience in Air Traffic Control, Traffic Management, or NAS operational environments.

Air Traffic Control - SME

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Facilitate communication between controllers, engineers, and program management to resolve ... Experience in Air Traffic Control, Traffic Management, or NAS operational environments.

... as an Air Traffic Controller and/or pilot (civil or military) coupled with strong program ... stakeholders * Assist in the development and maintenance of project schedules, milestones ...

... as an Air Traffic Controller and/or pilot (civil or military) coupled with strong program ... stakeholders * Assist in the development and maintenance of project schedules, milestones ...

Lead Hardware Systems Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$133K - $176K/yr

Hughes Technical Center (WJHTC), or the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy (FAAAC). * Experience with ERAM or other National Airspace System (NAS) systems. * Experience with Artificial Intelligence ...

Hughes Technical Center (WJHTC), or the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy (FAAAC). * Experience with ERAM or other National Airspace System (NAS) systems. * Experience with Artificial Intelligence ...

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Air Traffic Controller Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

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How much do air traffic controller assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for air traffic controller assistant in Reston, VA is $24.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $28.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an air traffic controller assistant?

An Air Traffic Controller Assistant supports air traffic controllers in managing the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. They handle administrative tasks, monitor flight data, and communicate with pilots and ground staff. They also help ensure compliance with regulations and assist in emergency situations. This role is crucial for maintaining smooth and safe air traffic operations.

What does an air traffic controller assistant do?

A typical day for an Air Traffic Controller Assistant involves monitoring flight schedules, updating and relaying important flight data, and providing support to air traffic controllers by helping coordinate aircraft movements. You may also assist with clear communication between controllers, pilots, and ground staff, and manage documentation or respond to routine inquiries. The role is primarily office-based at an airport or air traffic control facility, where teamwork and adaptability are crucial. While the pace can be fast and requires close attention to detail, it offers valuable exposure to the aviation industry and opportunities to develop skills for future advancement.

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

To thrive as an Air Traffic Controller Assistant, you need strong attention to detail, organizational abilities, and a background in aviation operations or a related field. Familiarity with air traffic communication systems, flight data processing software, and may require knowledge of FAA protocols is essential. Excellent teamwork, clear communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are key soft skills for this position. These abilities ensure safe, efficient support for air traffic controllers and contribute to smooth airport operations.

How to become an air traffic controller assistant?

To become an air traffic controller assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and must pass a series of assessments including a medical exam and background check. Relevant skills include strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure; some positions may require post-secondary education or specialized training. Certification or training programs are often provided by employers or through aviation authorities.

Is it difficult to get hired as an air traffic controller assistant?

Getting hired as an air traffic controller assistant can be competitive, as it requires relevant training, certifications, and often prior experience in aviation or related fields. Candidates must pass background checks, medical exams, and sometimes aptitude tests, making the hiring process rigorous but structured to ensure safety and competence.

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Controller jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Air Traffic Controller jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Air Traffic Controller Assistant jobs in Reston, VA?

For Air Traffic Controller Assistant jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Air Traffic Controller Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Air Traffic Controller Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Air Traffic Controller Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,780 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

ZDC Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

SAIC

Leesburg, VA

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 226 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2614024

Location: Leesburg, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-25

Category: Training

Subcategory: Training Analyst

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


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, 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, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate strong technical skills with current ATC automation, simulation 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 radar and/or non-radar simulation laboratory certifications at FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System.

The CTS Instructor is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to effectively and consistently deliver the highest quality classroom and/or simulation laboratory training to a wide variety of students including developmental air traffic controllers and Certified Professional Controllers (CPC).

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 Washington ARTCC (ZDC)

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Washington ARTCC (ZDC) is preferred but not required
  • Operational Experience with ATC simulators including scenario design for simulation platforms (e.g. TSS, AT Coach, SGET, etc.)
  • 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-II Simulation Laboratory and Classroom Certification

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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