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Aircraft Controller Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Production Line Setup Consultant

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

This is a highly hands-on consulting engagement focused on taking an aircraft program from prototype builds into controlled, repeatable series production. You will define the production system, help ...

New

... Aircraft Carrier Program Office (PMS 312) and the Aircraft Carrier Inactivation and Disposal ... Ensure proper handling of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Unclassified Naval Nuclear ...

... Aircraft Carrier Program Office (PMS 312) and the Aircraft Carrier Inactivation and Disposal ... Ensure proper handling of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Unclassified Naval Nuclear ...

Naval Electrician III

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Navy Aircraft Carriers, including shipboard motors and motor controllers. * OSHA 7615 Shipyard Employment 10-hour training course within 30 days of hire in accordance with applicable safety ...

Electrician - Hiring Now

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Navy Aircraft Carriers, including shipboard motors and motor controllers. * OSHA 7615 Shipyard Employment 10-hour training course within 30 days of hire in accordance with applicable safety ...

$22.75 - $28.50/hr

Navy Aircraft Carriers, including shipboard motors and motor controllers. * OSHA 7615 Shipyard Employment 10-hour training course within 30 days of hire in accordance with applicable safety ...

Naval Electrician III

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$22.75 - $31/hr

Navy Aircraft Carriers, including shipboard motors and motor controllers. * OSHA 7615 Shipyard Employment 10-hour training course within 30 days of hire in accordance with applicable safety ...

Responsible for the safe operation of the aircraft and the success of mission objectives, the pilot ... Expert knowledge and extensive experience with Piccolo or Quattro flight controllers. Basic ...

New

Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA ยท On-site

$92K - $112K/yr

About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 -- a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that ... controlled deliverables * Strong communication and collaboration skills for effective cross ...

Showing results 41-60

Aircraft Controller information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$118.5K

$174K

How much do aircraft controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft controller in Virginia is $118,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,200.00 and $137,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft controller?

Aircraft Controllers, also known as Air Traffic Controllers, are professionals responsible for coordinating the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground. They use radar, radios, and computers to provide pilots with crucial information regarding flight paths, weather conditions, and potential hazards. Their primary goal is to prevent collisions and ensure that air traffic flows smoothly, both at airports and in the airspace between them. Aircraft Controllers work in control towers, approach control facilities, and area control centers, often in high-pressure environments that require quick decision-making and strong communication skills.

What are some common challenges faced by aircraft controllers and how can they be managed?

Aircraft Controllers often work in high-pressure environments where quick decision-making and clear communication are essential. Common challenges include managing multiple aircraft simultaneously, adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, and handling unexpected situations like equipment malfunctions or emergency landings. To manage these challenges, controllers rely on rigorous training, teamwork, and adherence to strict protocols. Continuous professional development and strong support from colleagues and supervisors also help ensure safe and efficient operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Controller, you need strong situational awareness, quick decision-making abilities, and a solid understanding of air traffic regulations, typically supported by specialized training and certification from aviation authorities. Familiarity with radar systems, radio communication equipment, and air traffic control software is essential. Exceptional communication, stress management, and teamwork skills are crucial for coordinating with pilots and other controllers. These abilities ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, minimizing risks and maintaining order in busy airspace.

What is the difference between Aircraft Controller vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectAircraft ControllerAir Traffic Controller
CertificationsFAA Air Traffic Control Tower Certification, Radar CertificationFAA Air Traffic Control Tower Certification, Radar Certification
Work EnvironmentAirports, control towers, radar facilitiesAirports, control towers, radar facilities
Employer & IndustryAirlines, airports, government agenciesAirports, government agencies, military
Job FocusManaging aircraft movements on runways and taxiwaysManaging aircraft movements in controlled airspace

Both Aircraft Controllers and Air Traffic Controllers require similar certifications and work in airport environments. While Aircraft Controllers focus on managing aircraft on the ground and taxiways, Air Traffic Controllers oversee aircraft in the airspace. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path within aviation safety and management.

Are aircraft controllers getting paid?

Aircraft controllers, also known as air traffic controllers, are paid a salary that varies by country, experience, and certification level. In the United States, the median annual wage is around $130,000, and they often work in shifts within a controlled environment that requires specialized training and certification. Compensation typically includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

How do you become an aircraft controller?

To become an aircraft controller, candidates typically need to complete a federal or national air traffic control training program, which includes passing written and skills tests, and obtain certification from the relevant aviation authority. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential, and candidates often undergo background checks and medical examinations.

How much money does an aircraft controller make?

Aircraft controllers, also known as air traffic controllers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and certification level. They often work in high-stress environments and require specialized training and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or equivalent agencies.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Aircraft Controller jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Aircraft Controller job openings:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Controller job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,472 per year, or $57 per hour.

Journeyman Electrical Designer

Essnova Solutions, Inc.

Newport News, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Journeyman Electrical Designer - 2 Openings

Location: Fort Eustis, VA
Work Arrangement: Primarily onsite
Clearance: Active Secret clearance; Interim Secret acceptable during onboarding
Travel: Up to 25%
Employment: Full-time; contingent upon contract award

Essnova is seeking two Journeyman Electrical Designers to provide electrical design and drafting support for the integration of candidate solutions onto U.S. Army aviation platforms.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide electrical design support, including modeling, drafting, and technical drawing development.
  • Develop prototype, production, and special-purpose Technical Data Packages using PTC Pro/ENGINEER/Creo and Creo Schematics.
  • Prepare configuration-controlled designs, engineering drawing packages, analyses, and related technical data using Windchill.
  • Design and support the integration of aircraft electrical systems and subsystems.
  • Develop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, cable and signal-harness drawings, assembly drawings, and installation drawings.
  • Produce detailed drawing packages suitable for production.
  • Support drawing packages developed in accordance with applicable airframe specifications, FAA requirements, ASME Y14.100, and MIL-STD-31000.
  • Coordinate with engineers, mechanical designers, fabrication personnel, and testing teams.
  • Assist with material purchase requests and test-equipment requirements.
  • Support local and offsite testing activities.
  • Work independently or as part of an integrated engineering and design team.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

  • High school diploma or high school equivalency certificate.
  • At least two years of experience using computer-aided design software such as PTC Pro/ENGINEER/Creo, AutoCAD, or comparable CAD systems.
  • Experience reading and interpreting electrical schematics, signal-harness drawings, cable drawings, and wiring diagrams.
  • Experience preparing or modifying technical drawings and engineering documentation.
  • Active Secret clearance granted by DCSA; Interim Secret is acceptable during onboarding.
  • Ability to work primarily onsite at Fort Eustis, Virginia.
  • Ability to travel up to 25% for site surveys, technical meetings, training, testing, and other mission requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience using Creo Schematics.
  • Experience using Windchill in a configuration-controlled environment.
  • Aircraft wiring, avionics, electrical-systems, or signal-harness design experience.
  • Army aviation, military aircraft, or DoD research and development experience.
  • Aircraft integration, fabrication, or testing experience.
  • Familiarity with production Technical Data Packages, ASME Y14.100, or MIL-STD-31000.

Contract Requirement

This position supports a federal proposal and is contingent upon contract award. The anticipated staffing level may change during task-order performance based on Government mission requirements.