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Air Traffic Controllers Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways ...

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago Midway ATCT (MDW) , located at Chicago, IL ...

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ATCT (ORD) in Chicago, IL, supporting air traffic ...

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago Midway ATCT (MDW) , located at Chicago, IL ...

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Air Traffic Controllers information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$22

$39

How much do air traffic controllers jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for air traffic controllers in Illinois is $22.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $26.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Air Traffic Controllers vs Flight Dispatchers?

AspectAir Traffic ControllersFlight Dispatchers
Required CredentialsFAA certification, specialized trainingFAA certification, dispatch license, meteorology knowledge
Work EnvironmentControl towers, radar rooms, airportsOffices, airline operations centers, remote locations
Industry UsageAirports, air traffic control agenciesAirlines, charter companies, cargo carriers

While both roles are essential in aviation, Air Traffic Controllers manage aircraft movements in real-time at airports and en route, ensuring safety and efficiency. Flight Dispatchers plan flight routes, monitor weather, and coordinate with pilots before and during flights. They work closely but focus on different stages of flight operations, with distinct certifications and work environments.

How can you become an air traffic controller?

To become an air traffic controller, candidates typically need to meet age and education requirements, 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 written and skills assessments. Strong communication, decision-making, and multitasking skills are essential for success in this role.

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

Getting hired as an air traffic controller is competitive and requires passing rigorous testing, including written exams, medical evaluations, and background checks. Candidates typically need relevant education, such as an FAA-approved program or military experience, and must complete extensive training before employment.

What qualifications do I need to be an air traffic controller?

To become an air traffic controller, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree or higher from an approved program, pass medical and background checks, and complete specialized training through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential, along with passing a series of exams and a drug test.

What job categories do people searching Air Traffic Controllers jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Air Traffic Controllers jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Air Traffic Controllers job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,298 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

U.S. Navy

Springfield, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide air traffic control services in various facilities and locations, including air traffic control towers, radar facilities, and air operations ashore and afloat.

  • Operate radio communication systems, interpret radar data, and communicate critical information to pilots to ensure safe aircraft operations.

  • Perform aircraft tactical duties, handle launch and recovery of Naval aircraft, and operate tactical weapons, sensors, and communications equipment.


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

ABOUT

Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain extensive training in radar, sonar, and air traffic communications. If you feel more at home above the sea than on it, a career in aviation might be for you. Below are some examples of the vast opportunities in this field.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Commercial airlines aren’t the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways, inclement weather and mechanical issues to get personnel safely to the ground. Navy aircraft are

moving all the time, so it’s your responsibility to organize air traffic and communicate critical information to pilots. With extensive training in radar and air traffic communications, this rate is one of the easiest to translate into a civilian career post−service. As an Air Traffic Controller, you can command the skies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the most complex, high−stakes exercises on the planet. It’s no small task to ensure that each aircraft that leaves the flight deck performs its mission successfully and returns home safely. Navy Air Traffic Controllers are essential in directing the everyday complexities above and below the flight deck.

Their responsibilities include:

  • Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat
  • Operating radio communication systems and light signals
  • Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator
  • Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft
  • Interpreting data shown on radar screens to plot aircraft positions
  • Operating tactical weapons, sensors, and communications equipment
  • Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post−9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before, or whether you’ve never served before.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Make the world your home. You may be assigned to sea or shore squadrons on almost any continent. You will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments—from airborne aircraft to hangars, hangar decks to flight decks and flight lines at air stations and on aircraft carriers.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

The role above is an Active Duty opportunity in the Navy, however there are part-time roles available in Air Support for the Navy. Serving part−time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.


What United States Navy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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