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Airport Tower Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Airport Operations Officer

Wichita, KS · On-site

$23.95 - $28/hr

The Airport Operations Manager provides work assignments, instructions, and evaluations through ... Communicates with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) - Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT)

Showing results 21-40

Airport Tower information

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How much do airport tower jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport tower in the United States is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airport tower controller?

Airport tower controllers, also known as air traffic controllers, are professionals who manage the safe and orderly flow of aircraft on the ground and in the airspace immediately surrounding an airport. They communicate with pilots to provide instructions for takeoff, landing, and taxiing, and coordinate with other controllers to maintain efficient airport operations. Their primary goal is to ensure safety and prevent collisions by managing aircraft movements within the airport's controlled airspace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air traffic controller in an airport tower?

To thrive as an Air Traffic Controller in an airport tower, you need strong situational awareness, quick decision-making abilities, and typically an FAA Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate or equivalent. Familiarity with radar systems, communication equipment, and flight tracking software is crucial for managing aircraft safely. Exceptional communication, stress management, and teamwork skills help controllers coordinate efficiently and maintain safety under pressure. These competencies are critical to ensure the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic in complex and high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges faced by air traffic controllers working in an airport tower, and how can they be managed?

Air traffic controllers in airport towers often face challenges such as managing high traffic volume during peak hours, maintaining clear communication with pilots, and making quick decisions under pressure. These challenges are managed by rigorous training, adherence to established procedures, and strong teamwork with other controllers and ground personnel. Regular briefings and continuous skill development also help controllers stay prepared for unusual or emergency situations, ensuring both safety and efficiency in airport operations.

What is the difference between Airport Tower vs Airport Ground Staff?

AspectAirport TowerAirport Ground Staff
Primary RoleAir traffic control and managing aircraft movementsPassenger assistance, baggage handling, and airport operations
Required CertificationsAir traffic control license, FAA certificationCustomer service training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentControl tower, high-stakes, focused on aircraft safetyAirport terminals, outdoor, customer-facing
Employer & Industry UsageAirports, airlines, aviation authoritiesAirports, airlines, ground service providers

While both roles are essential to airport operations, Airport Tower staff focus on air traffic control and aircraft movement safety, requiring specialized certifications. Airport Ground Staff handle passenger services and ground operations, emphasizing customer service and safety procedures. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in aviation.

How to work in an airport tower?

To work in an airport tower, individuals typically need to obtain an Air Traffic Control (ATC) certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or relevant authority, which involves passing written and practical exams. Candidates must also have a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and strong communication and decision-making skills; working hours often include shift work to ensure 24/7 coverage.

What cities are hiring for Airport Tower jobs?

Cities with the most Airport Tower job openings:

What states have the most Airport Tower jobs?

States with the most job openings for Airport Tower jobs include:

Infographic showing various Airport Tower job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,357 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Air Traffic Control Specialist (Part Time)

Millington-Memphis Airport

Millington, TN • On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Under the supervision and direction of the Air Traffic Control Manager / Airport Director, this is a part-time position with Millington Airport Authority. The Air Traffic Control Specialist is responsible for providing air traffic control services during locally staffed operational hours at the Millington–Memphis Airport Non-Federal Control Tower. The position supports the safe, orderly, and efficient movement of aircraft operating at and in the vicinity of the airport. ATC Specialists will operate consistent with applicable FAA guidance and standard air traffic control procedures.

Primary Responsibilities

•       Provide air traffic control services for aircraft arrivals, departures, and ground movements

•       Manage traffic pattern operations and sequencing

•       Issue taxi, takeoff, and landing instructions using standard FAA phraseology

•       Maintain situational awareness of aircraft and vehicle activity on the airfield

•       Coordinate aircraft operations with surrounding FAA air traffic control facilities as required

•       Monitor weather conditions and relay information to pilots when appropriate

•       Maintain tower operational logs and documentation

•       Report operational incidents, equipment issues, or safety concerns

Operational Duties

ATC Specialists are responsible for:

•       Safe and efficient aircraft movement on runways and taxiways

•       Monitoring and controlling vehicle access to movement areas

•       Maintaining communication with aircraft and airport personnel

•       Supporting emergency aircraft operations when required

•       Adhering to procedures outlined in the NQA Non-Federal Tower Operations Manual

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

•       Ability to maintain situational awareness and make sound operational decisions

•       Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

•       Learn and follow department Policies, Procedures, and Protocols.

•       Respond appropriately to emergency situations.

•       Maintain safety and professional standards, including the expectation to

•       maintain professional conduct at all times

•       adhere to established operational procedures

•       prioritize safety in all operational decisions

•       communicate clearly using standard FAA phraseology

Requirements

Education & Experience

  • Control Tower Operator (CTO) Certificate required.
  • Current Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Previous air traffic control experience in a tower environment required.
  • Familiarity with FAA air traffic control procedures and phraseology required.
  • Candidates with previous FAA or Federal Contract Tower Specialist experience preferred.
  • Candidates with recent operational experience preferred.

Physical Demands

  • Must be able to climb stairs consisting of 55 steps to reach duty station.
  • Ability to remain alert and attentive for extended periods.
  • Ability to communicate clearly via radio and telephone.
  • Ability to work evening and overnight hours.
  • Work will be performed indoors.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an air traffic control tower environment and requires:

  • continuous situational awareness
  • effective communication
  • the ability to manage multiple aircraft operations simultaneously

Special Requirements

  • Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening is required. Position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident)
  • Must maintain physical fitness standards in accordance with Class II Medical Certificate.
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment background check is required.
  • Upon hiring, candidate is subject to a six-month probationary period.
  • May be required to work rotating shifts, schedules, including weekends and holidays.
  • Typical schedule will include evening shifts Monday through Friday (2000-0200) and evening shifts on Saturday (1900-0200).
  • ATC Specialists may work on a rotational schedule (week on / week off) depending on staffing assignments.

Benefits

Benefits

  • Hourly rate commensurate with experience and qualifications.
  • Hourly rate is $45-$55/hour for candidates that meet all of the requirements and that possess local (KNQA) experience. All candidate experience will be verified.
  • Limited benefits may be offered in accordance with airport personnel policies.

Applicants that applied for the Air Traffic Control Specialist (part time) prior to 08/21/26 must reapply.

The Millington Airport Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer