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Airline Controller Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GoJet Airlines

RIC AIRCRAFT PARTS CLERK

Richmond, VA · On-site

GOJET AIRLINES - AIRCRAFT PARTS CLERK LOCATION - RICHMOND, VA GoJet Airlines' Aircraft Parts Clerks ... Maintain an accurate and controlled inventory with the assistance of the computer-based tracking ...

PSA Airlines

Pilot Cadet Program

Arlington, VA

Overview Let your career take off with PSA Airlines About PSA PSA Airlines, a wholly owned ... This job operates inside a climate-controlled building. This role routinely uses standard office ...

PSA Airlines

Aircraft Mechanic

Norfolk, VA

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Overview Let your career take off with PSA Airlines About PSA PSA Airlines, a wholly owned ... This job operates inside a climate controlled building. This role routinely uses standard office ...

Psa Airlines

A&P Mechanic

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Overview Let your career take off with PSA Airlines About PSA PSA Airlines, a wholly owned ... This job operates inside a climate controlled building. This role routinely uses standard office ...

PSA Airlines

Aircraft Mechanic

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

Let your career take off with PSA Airlines About PSA PSA Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of ... This job operates inside a climate controlled building. This role routinely uses standard office ...

Network Runners, Inc.

Project Manager

Springfield, VA · On-site

... GSA, airlines, airports, facility lessors, and other TSA organizations. * Develop functional ... Controlled Unclassified Information. * Ability to sign and comply with required non-disclosure and ...

Ag

Transportation Manager

Dulles, VA · On-site

... value for airlines and suppliers worldwide. Being part of the Airbus family gives us the ... You act not as a dispatcher, but as the escalation point and controller, ensuring compliance with ...

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All JobsAirline Controller JobsAirline Controller Jobs in Virginia

Airline Controller information

See Virginia salary details

$54.5K

$118.5K

$174K

How much do airline controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for airline 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 airline controller?

Airline Controllers, often referred to as air traffic controllers, are professionals responsible for coordinating the safe and orderly movement of aircraft both on the ground and in the airspace. They provide instructions to pilots for takeoff, landing, and flight paths, ensuring that aircraft maintain safe distances from each other. These controllers work in control towers, approach control facilities, or en route centers, using radar and communication systems to monitor and direct air traffic. Their role is crucial for maintaining the safety and efficiency of air travel.

How does an airline controller typically coordinate with pilots and ground crews during daily operations?

As an Airline Controller, effective communication and coordination with both pilots and ground crews are crucial to ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. Controllers relay real-time instructions to pilots regarding flight paths, takeoffs, landings, and any in-flight changes due to weather or traffic. They also work closely with ground crews to manage gate assignments, aircraft movements on the tarmac, and turnaround times. This collaborative environment requires Airline Controllers to stay alert, multitask, and make quick decisions to keep flights running smoothly and safely.

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

To thrive as an Airline Controller, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and in-depth knowledge of air traffic regulations, typically supported by specialized training and certification from relevant aviation authorities. Familiarity with radar systems, flight tracking software, and communication tools is essential for managing aircraft movements safely and efficiently. Excellent decision-making, stress management, and clear communication skills help controllers remain effective under pressure and coordinate with pilots and ground staff. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and smooth operation of air traffic in a high-stakes environment.

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

AspectAirline ControllerAir Traffic Controller
CredentialsFAA certification, airline-specific trainingFAA certification, radar and communication training
Work EnvironmentAirline operations centers, airport facilitiesControl towers, radar rooms, en-route centers
Employer & IndustryAirlines, airline operationsFederal Aviation Administration, airports, en-route centers
Common Search IntentManaging airline schedules, flight planningEnsuring safe aircraft separation, managing air traffic

Airline Controllers focus on airline operations, scheduling, and coordination within airline facilities, while Air Traffic Controllers manage aircraft movements in the airspace and at airports. Both roles require FAA certification but serve different aspects of aviation safety and operations.

Are airline controllers getting paid?

Airline controllers, also known as air traffic controllers, are typically paid a salary that varies based on experience, location, and certification level. According to industry data, the median annual wage for air traffic controllers in the United States was around $130,000 as of 2022, with additional benefits and overtime opportunities. They often work in high-stress environments and require specialized training and certification.

How do you become an airline controller?

To become an airline controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, which includes passing written and practical exams. Most controllers also complete a training program at an FAA Academy and gain experience through on-the-job training, with strong skills in communication, decision-making, and stress management required for the role.

What does an airline controller make?

An airline controller, also known as an air traffic controller, typically earns a median annual salary of around $130,000, though this can vary based on experience, location, and certification level. They are responsible for managing aircraft movements in the airspace and at airports, requiring strong communication skills and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority.

What are popular job titles related to Airline Controller jobs in Virginia?

For Airline Controller jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Airline Controller jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Airline Controller jobs in Virginia are:

Airline Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airline Controller job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,472 per year, or $57 per hour.

Ramp Tower Controller

Dulles, VA • On-site

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Aviation • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Metropolitan Washington Airports Authorityexternal

$40.55 - $58.79/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Compensation Grade:
S19-H
Salary Range:
$40.55-$58.79
Opening Date:
August 7, 2026
Closing Date:
August 22, 2026
Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.
As a Ramp Tower Controller, you will control aircraft on the ramps and taxi lanes, dispatch mobile lounges to safely transport passengers, and monitor all aircraft and vehicles in the ramp area to ensure their safe, efficient, and expeditious ground movement.
Ramp Tower Controller
Serves in the Airport Operations Department at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).
Controls aircraft on the ramps and taxi lanes, dispatches mobile lounges to safely transport airline passengers to and from aircraft and terminals, and monitors all aircraft and vehicles in the ramp area to ensure their safe, efficient, and expeditious ground movement. Coordinates with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), airlines, and other IAD Departments to ensure that all aircraft, mobile lounges, and other airfield vehicles operate in accordance with established rules and protocols. Performs related functions.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Directs the movement of aircraft in midfield ramp area in compliance with Dulles Airport Surface Operations Letter of Agreement between Dulles FAA tower and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
Gives instruction to arriving aircraft for taxiing to pre-assigned gates.
Approves requests for push-backs of aircraft into taxi lanes in ramp area and gives taxi instructions ensuring an orderly flow of traffic in compliance with current airport configuration (runways in use) dictated by the Dulles FAA tower.
Dispatches mobile lounges/plane-mates to safely and efficiently transport airline passengers.
Assigns remote parking areas to aircraft, informs airlines, and notes information in gate book.
Reports observed safety hazards, adverse airfield operations, and all other problems.
In the event of an airfield emergency or security breach, follows guidelines and instructions and coordinates with Airport Operations Department and other airport personnel.
Maintains and updates all pertinent records, logs, and assignments, with required information.
Reports the need for maintenance, as required, for all systems.
Coordinates preventive and no-notice maintenance, with Equipment Maintenance, to assure a rotation of mobile lounges/plane-mates.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Four years of progressively responsible experience controlling aircraft movements on the ground or in the air at a major airport; OR Qualified as a controller for the FAA, the US Military, or a ramp control tower at a major airport; OR qualified as a pilot for a CFR Part 121 air carrier; OR has a degree from an approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI).
Ability to perform basic analyses of data and information.
Skill in coordinating and prioritizing multiple information sources, simultaneously.
Ability to speak and write effectively.
Skill in using a computer, computerized work order and time and attendance system.
Ability to work as a team member.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience as a Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) for the FAA or government contractor.
FAA Certified Air Traffic Controller.
Knowledge of and ability to apply ground control procedures at a large hub airport with multiple terminals.
Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate from the FAA or DOD.
Air Traffic Control Degree from an approved AT-CTI School.
EDUCATION
A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).
CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED
A state driver's license in good standing.
NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS
Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, customer service, teamwork, adherence to guidelines, effectiveness, and other factors.
Operates vehicle landside and airside (requires AOA permit).
Must be able to climb stairs (4 levels) to reach Ramp Tower cabs.
Is required to work shifts, including weekends, holidays, and nights, in support of the 24/7/365 Ramp Tower operations.
Is subject to hold-over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies such as snow removal.
WHAT WE OFFER
A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family's health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits package here.
A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.

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