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Airline Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Maintenance Controller reports to the Director of Maintenance Control and safely manages the ... At least 5 years corporate aircraft or regional airline maintenance experience. Specific experience ...

... airlines, cargo and regional operators, charter companies, ground handlers, and FBOs. We are ... Controller to support the company's accounting, reconciliation, reporting, and administrative ...

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Controller

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

... and airlines around the world. JetZero is seeking a Controller to join the team and own the ... accounting function end-to-end. This role will focus on building the team, streamlining the close ...

Previous aviation experience is desired as a minimum i.e. airline dispatcher, pilot, air traffic controller, experience handling aircraft on the airport ramp. Position is subject to drug and/or ...

Station Production Controller - ORD

Chicago, IL · On-site

$58K - $64K/yr

At Atlas Air Worldwide, we're not just an airline, we're a global engine powering cargo, passenger ... The Station Production Controller is responsible for the efficient, timely planning and ...

$72K - $90K/yr

Executive Chef - Airline Catering Job Location: Austin-USA-78719 Work Location Type: On-Site Salary ... Responsible for cost controlling of the budget, personnel and material costs * Participates in menu ...

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Airline Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do airline controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for airline controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?

Air traffic controllers typically earn well above $10,000 per month, with the median annual salary in the United States around $130,000. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and certification level, and controllers often work in high-pressure environments requiring specialized training and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

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.

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 an FAA-approved air traffic control academy or program. Applicants must pass written, medical, and background exams, and then complete on-the-job training at an FAA facility, gaining skills in radar operation, communication, and decision-making. Certification is required to work as an air traffic controller, and the job often involves shift work in a high-pressure environment.

What are Airline Controllers?

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.

Why can't you be an air traffic controller after 30?

Air traffic controllers typically face age limits because the job requires high levels of mental alertness, quick decision-making, and the ability to handle stress, which can decline with age. Most agencies set maximum entry ages—often around 30—to ensure candidates can meet the physical and cognitive demands throughout their careers, which can last several decades. However, some regions may have different age policies or allow exceptions based on experience and training.

How much do airline controllers get paid?

Airline controllers, also known as air traffic controllers, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and certification level. They work in high-pressure environments and must complete specialized training and certification to qualify for the role.
More about Airline Controller jobs
What states have the most Airline Controller jobs? States with the most job openings for Airline Controller jobs include:
Infographic showing various Airline Controller job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
Senior Controller (Experienced or Senior)

Senior Controller (Experienced or Senior)

Boeing

Seal Beach, CA

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 598 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Senior Controller (Experienced or Senior)

Company:

The Boeing Company

The Customer Support Operations Center within Boeing Commercial Aircraft is seeking a skilled and detail-orientated Senior Controller to join the Boeing Operations Center 777-X team in Seal Beach, CA.

Position Overview:

The Boeing 777-9 is the lead variant of the 777X family, designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency, extended range, and enhanced passenger experience for long-haul commercial operations. This position combines the core Controller responsibilities with elevated mission leadership duties. The Senior Controller will act as the critical liaison between Boeing Field Service Representatives (FSRs), airline customers, AOG spares teams, Service and Engineering stakeholders, and BOC leadership to ensure timely, safe, and visible resolution of in-service events and AOGs.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Act as primary intake for airline customer calls and BCS Case Messages; perform initial assessment and determine next steps.

  • Conduct situational awareness calls with customers/FSRs to gather facts, set expectations, and confirm next actions.

  • Prioritize and triage incoming requests; determine appropriate resolution path (direct response, SME engagement, escalation).

  • Use published data, manuals, and technical references to develop and deliver timely guidance via BCS; follow up to confirm resolution.

  • Provide telephone-based troubleshooting to restore or maintain aircraft operability.

  • Engage Lead Engineers, Systems/Structures SMEs, and other specialists for deeper technical analysis.

  • Coordinate and escalate unresolved or complex issues to engineering, spares, field service, or operations teams, and track actions to closure.

  • Initiate interim remedial actions to mitigate operational impact while permanent fixes are developed.

  • Maintain situational awareness of open cases to meet service-level expectations and support on-time performance.

  • Document case activities, decisions and outcomes in BCS and other tracking systems to ensure auditable records and continuity.

  • Prepare and deliver shift handover reports for critical or ongoing items.

Schedule:

Willingness to work a non-standard schedule, which may include working "7days-on/7days-off", holidays and weekends, and second or third shift hours to support the Boeing fleet operating in a 24/7/365 environment; a 7 day shift consist of working Fri-Thu for 7 days from either 2nd shift (12PM - 12AM) and/or 4th shift (12AM - 12PM) with the following 7 days off. This position is for 2nd shift (12PM - 12AM) and/or 4th shift (12AM - 12PM); for specialized skills a 4/10 schedule across all shifts would be an option.

Travel Requirement:

Must be willing and able to travel 10% of the time domestically and internationally.

Work Authorization:

This position is expected to be 100% onsite.The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at the Seal Beach, California location.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/ Experience):

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology (including Manufacturing Technology), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement.

  • 5+ years of experience in commercial aircraft operations or in-service support.

  • Experience working with organizational leaders to develop and implement operational plans and objectives.

  • Technical research agility across multiple airplane models; ability to interpret drawings, system schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.

  • Strong Project Management skills including Executive level presentations, report outs and communication.

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):

  • Proven airplane systems troubleshooting experience and flight ramp hands-on troubleshooting exposure.

  • Airline maintenance operations or MOC (Maintenance Operations Center) experience.

  • Airplane production experience involving systems troubleshooting.

  • Experience coordinating AOG spares logistics and working with supplier/spares management.

  • Demonstrated experience leading or facilitating customer-facing AOG meetings and coordinating cross-functional action items.

  • Project management experience including preparing leadership-level reports and presentations.

Conflict of Interest:

Successful candidates for this job must satisfy the Company's Conflict of Interest (COI) assessment process.

Drug Free Workplace:

Boeingis a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Union:

This is not a union-represented position.

Pay and Benefits:

At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Summary Pay Range:

$146,200 - $197,800

Language Requirements:

Not Applicable

Education:

Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent

Relocation:

This position offers relocation based on candidate eligibility.

Export Control Requirement:

This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. 120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.

Safety Sensitive:

This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.

Security Clearance:

This position does not require a Security Clearance.

Visa Sponsorship:

Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.

Contingent Upon Award Program

This position is not contingent upon program award

Shift:

Shift 4 (United States of America)

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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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