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Air Traffic Controller Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

MDW Air Traffic Control Instructor

Chicago, IL

$40K - $80K/yr

... controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility ... overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired. * Experience demonstrating excellent ...

SAIC

S46 Air Traffic Control Instructor

Burien, WA

$40K - $80K/yr

... controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility ... FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System Education: * High ...

New

SAIC

ORD Air Traffic Control Instructor

Chicago, IL

$40K - $80K/yr

... controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility ... FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Education: * High ...

SAIC

GEG Air Traffic Control Instructor

Spokane, WA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

... controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility ... FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Education: * High ...

SAIC

BFI Air Traffic Control Instructor

Seattle, WA

$40K - $80K/yr

... controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility ... FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Education: * High ...

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Air Traffic Controller Contract information

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for air traffic controller contract in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an air traffic controller contract?

Air Traffic Controller Contracts refer to employment agreements where air traffic controllers are hired on a contractual basis rather than as permanent government employees. These contracts may be issued by private companies or government agencies to manage air traffic at airports, control centers, or other facilities. Contract air traffic controllers perform the same essential duties as full-time controllers, including directing aircraft, ensuring safe distances between planes, and communicating with pilots. The main differences often relate to employment terms, benefits, and duration of work, which can vary depending on the contract and employer.

What does a contract air traffic controller do?

A contract air traffic controller performs the same responsibilities and duties as a regular full-time air traffic controller but on a temporary basis. As a contract air traffic controller, your duties include monitoring flight traffic, communicating with the pilot, ensuring that the airspace around the airport is properly monitored so that planes can safely take off and land, and maintaining a proper schedule of planes. You work on assignment or for an independent contracting company that sends you to control towers that have a shortage of full-time controllers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract air traffic controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Air Traffic Controller on a contract, you need a strong understanding of aviation regulations, airspace management, and hold relevant certifications such as an FAA Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate. Familiarity with radar systems, communication equipment, and flight tracking software is crucial. Superior decision-making, stress management, and clear communication skills help individuals excel in high-pressure situations. These competencies are vital for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and coordination of air traffic operations.

What are the most common challenges faced by contract air traffic controllers?

Air Traffic Controllers on contract assignments often face the challenge of quickly adapting to new airport environments and local procedures, as each facility may have unique operations and team dynamics. Additionally, contract roles may require controllers to be flexible with their schedules, including nights, weekends, or rotating shifts. Building effective communication with permanent staff and integrating into established teams is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency. Contract controllers must also stay current with certification requirements and be prepared for periodic evaluations throughout their assignment.

What is the difference between Air Traffic Controller Contract vs Air Traffic Control Specialist?

AspectAir Traffic Controller ContractAir Traffic Control Specialist
CredentialsFAA certification, specific to contract rolesFAA certification, often similar or identical
Work EnvironmentTemporary or project-based control towers, airportsPermanent positions at airports or control centers
Employer & Industry UsageContract agencies, government contractorsFederal Aviation Administration, airports
Search & Comparison IntentContract roles, temporary positionsPermanent employment, career progression

In summary, Air Traffic Controller Contract roles are temporary or project-based positions often filled through agencies, while Air Traffic Control Specialists are permanent employees working directly for airports or the FAA. Both require similar certifications but differ mainly in employment type and job stability.

More about Air Traffic Controller Contract jobs

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What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Controller jobs?

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What states have the most Air Traffic Controller Contract jobs?

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Air Traffic Controller Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Traffic Controller Contract job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,810 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Dynamic Science Inc

Martinsburg, WV • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description:

Responsibilities: Perform air traffic control duties as a full-performance controller. Function as a sole tower operator with all Air Traffic Control performance requirements. Perform all basic weather watch functions during assigned shifts.

· Operate Tower positions of Local Control, Ground Control, Flight Data, and Clearance Delivery

· Fulfill assigned duties as Controller-in-Charge

· Train other controllers and trainees in all tower positions

· Construct, record, and electronically transmit surface weather observations

· Obtain and transmit all pilot reports

· Advise maintenance technicians of all equipment problems

Location/Duty Schedule:

This is a full-time position at Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The facility operates 0700-2300/7 days per week. You will be required to work during all shifts, including weekends and holidays, as may be required.


**Signing bonuses available for qualified candidates

Requirements:

Experience:

· Hold a current Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate (REQUIRED)

· Minimum of 3 years experience in ATC duties in a control tower (REQUIRED)

Qualifications

· Must have completed US military or FAA ATC technical training (REQUIRED)

· Must have or be able to hold a Class 2 FAA medical certificate (REQUIRED)

. Must be a US Citizen (REQUIRED)

· Must have or be able to obtain a Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance (REQUIRED)

· Must possess a background in weather observation and complete the federal weather certification program. Must be capable of performing the total weather watch function alone and independently. (REQUIRED)

· Must pass pre-employment drug testing and a basic background screening (REQUIRED)


Equal Employment Opportunity/disability/protected veteran status