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Army Air Traffic Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Medical standards for air traffic control personnel * All Army air traffic controllers, to include ... contractors, will meet the same medical qualification standards as outlined in AR 40-501.

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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Army Air Traffic Control information

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$33K

$101.4K

$172.5K

How much do army air traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for army air traffic control in the United States is $101,385.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Army Air Traffic Control careers typically have age limits, often around 30 years old, due to the physical and mental demands of the role and military recruitment policies. These limits ensure candidates can meet the required training, certification, and operational responsibilities throughout their service. Age restrictions may vary depending on specific military branches and roles, but generally, candidates need to meet age criteria before enlistment or commissioning.

Can you become an air traffic controller in the Army?

Yes, the Army trains qualified personnel to serve as air traffic controllers, responsible for managing aircraft movements in military airspace and at bases. Candidates typically need to meet specific enlistment requirements, complete specialized training, and obtain necessary security clearances. The role involves working with radar systems, communication tools, and adhering to strict safety protocols.

What is the difference between Army Air Traffic Control vs Civilian Air Traffic Controller?

AspectArmy Air Traffic ControlCivilian Air Traffic Controller
CredentialsMilitary training, certifications, security clearanceFAA certifications, licenses, security clearance
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, military airports, combat zonesCommercial and regional airports, control towers
Employer & IndustryU.S. Army, military aviationFederal Aviation Administration, private airports

Both roles involve managing aircraft movements, but Army Air Traffic Control operates primarily within military settings with military-specific protocols, while civilian air traffic controllers work in commercial airports under FAA regulations. The skills are similar, but the environments and certifications differ.

What is Army Air Traffic Control?

Army Air Traffic Control refers to the management and coordination of military aircraft movements, both in the air and on the ground, to ensure safe and efficient operations. Army air traffic controllers are responsible for directing aircraft within controlled airspace, providing takeoff and landing instructions, and coordinating with other military and civilian air traffic services. Their work is critical for mission success, especially during combat, training, and humanitarian missions. Army controllers often operate in challenging environments and require specialized training to handle the unique demands of military aviation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Army Air Traffic Controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Army Air Traffic Controller, you need a solid understanding of aviation regulations, strong situational awareness, and successful completion of relevant military training such as the Air Traffic Control Operator Course. Familiarity with radar systems, radio communication equipment, and flight-tracking software is typically required. Excellent decision-making, stress management, and clear communication skills are crucial for coordinating aircraft movements safely and efficiently. These abilities are essential to ensure the safety of military personnel and equipment in dynamic and high-pressure environments.

How much do Army air traffic controllers make?

Army air traffic controllers typically earn a salary comparable to military pay grades, which range from approximately $30,000 to over $80,000 annually depending on rank, experience, and years of service. They also receive benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement options, and must complete specialized training and certifications to operate radar and communication equipment in a military environment.

What ASVAB score do I need for ATC?

To become an Army Air Traffic Control specialist, a minimum ASVAB score of 105 in the Skilled Technical (ST) composite area is typically required, which includes subtests like General Maintenance (GM), Mathematics Knowledge (MK), and Electronics (EL). High scores in these areas demonstrate the necessary aptitude for the technical and communication skills essential in air traffic control roles. Additional qualifications, training, and security clearances are also part of the enlistment process.

What are some common challenges faced by Army Air Traffic Control specialists in managing both military and civilian airspace?

Army Air Traffic Control specialists often work in dynamic and high-pressure environments where they must coordinate the movement of military aircraft alongside civilian flights, especially in joint-use or deployed airfields. Challenges include adapting to rapidly changing mission requirements, maintaining clear communication in high-tempo situations, and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed under stressful conditions. Successful controllers develop strong teamwork skills, attention to detail, and adaptability to ensure mission success and airspace safety.
More about Army Air Traffic Control jobs
What states have the most Army Air Traffic Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Army Air Traffic Control jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Army Air Traffic Control jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Army Air Traffic Control jobs are:
Infographic showing various Army Air Traffic Control job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,385 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL)

Army National Guard Units

Guernsey, WY • On-site, Remote

$79K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Army National Guard rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

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39th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION. This National Guard position is for an AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL), Position Description Number HTATC0011 and is part of the State Army Aviation Office, Wyoming Army National Guard.
This is a Title 5 Excepted Service position. Military affiliation is not required.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As an Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Title 5), GS-2152-11, you will perform the below duties:
  1. Perform air traffic control duties in the control tower. Direct movement of aircraft in flight and on the ground by utilizing pilot and controller reports, visual observation, and/or tower displays, or a combination of methods and in close coordination with other controllers. Formulate and issue ATC clearances and instructions to provide for the required separation and or sequencing of all IFR and VFR traffic within delegated Class D and Restricted airspace. Provide assistance to both experienced professional and inexperienced student pilots within the airspace and ensure expeditious traffic flows are maintained. Provide mandatory additional services and assistance to aircraft to include those experiencing in-flight emergencies, hijacking and unlawful seizure, pilot disorientation, and to those aircraft otherwise experiencing distress during flight.
  2. Execute the standardized ATC training program in accordance with guidelines established by regulations of the Department of Army (DA), Department of Defense (DoD), and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Incumbent is responsible for the utilization of training materials that ensure controller-trainees are adequately trained and tested with the goal of creating a cohesive ATC team that provides multi-level ATC services to the aviation customer. Incumbent executes controller qualification, proficiency, and remedial training. Completion of training results in newly assigned personnel receiving their Control Tower Operator (CTO) certification within prescribed time limits.
  3. Operate, train, and provide preventative maintenance on a host of automated communications and display hardware and software systems that are integral and vital to the operation of the air traffic control facility.
  4. Maintain communications with aircraft and adjacent facilities to transmit and receive instructions and information relative to flight. Investigate possible equipment outages and issues appropriate advisories to aircraft. Ensure adjacent facilities and aircraft operators are advised of additional support requirements during equipment outages.
  5. Evaluate weather reports from automated (FMQ-13, FMQ-23, IDS, etc.) or other sources (i.e. Pilot Reports) and ensures weather information is accurate, specific, and timely. Modify, corrects, or augments as appropriate for official weather reporting. Provides dissemination of weather warnings, watches, and advisories. Participates in the Cooperative Weather Watch program. Requests, records, and disseminates Pilot Reports (PIREPS) as mandated by FAA and NWS directives.
  6. Conduct and direct aircraft mishap and hazardous air traffic systems reporting. Ensures accurate and timely reports to agencies or various local, state, and federal departments having oversight responsibility.
  7. Perform other duties as assigned.

** This is NOT an all-inclusive list of duties. **
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT & NOTES:
U.S. Citizenship Required.
May require access to classified information. Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate SECRET security clearance.
Subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program.
Paid through Direct Deposit/Electronic Funds Transfer (DD/EFT).
May be required to successfully complete a two-year trial period.
Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
Veterans' Preference may apply (if applicable) to this advertisement.
Recruitment/Relocation Incentives ARE NOT due to lack of funding.
PCS is not authorized. Must be willing to relocate at own expense if selected.
Must meet and maintain on a continuing basis, the physical and mental qualification standards established for Air Traffic Control duty.
Exercises a high level of judgment and discretion, demonstrate verbal and written skills, and ability to meet and deal with high-ranking military and civilian personnel.
Must meet and maintain on a continuing basis, the physical and mental qualification standards established by the FAA, US Army, and NGB for Air Traffic Control duty.
Subject to the special retirement provisions for Air Traffic Controllers under CSRS and FERS, 5 USC 3382, Involuntary Separation for Retirement; 5 USC 8335(a) and 8425(a), Mandatory Separation; 5 USC 8336(e) and 8412(e), Immediate Retirement; and 5 USC 8339(e) and 8415(d), Computation of Annuity, unless a waiver is approved.
Meets the definition for premium pay as stated in 5 USC 5546a(a)1. It also meets US OPM definition for Special Rate Table Number 0566 (non-radar approach control duties).
Mission Essential: May be required to remain on duty or report for duty during contingency operations or other emergency situations. Commensurate with mission requirements, can be required to work overtime and other than normal duty hours which may include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.
Drug Screening designated position. Personnel must pass drug screening prior to hiring and will be subject to periodic and random drug testing, thereafter, in accordance with AR600-85 and Department of Defense Directive 2010.9.
Annual Class IV Physical: This position requires a pre-employment physical, and annually thereafter.
Qualifications
AREAS OF CONSIDERATION:
Referrals of qualified applicants will be issued in the following order:
Area 1: All permanent and indefinite Wyoming Army National Guard T5's employed within Guernsey Airfield.
Area 2: All permanent and indefinite WYNG Title 5 and T32 DST employed with the Wyoming Air/Army National Guard.
Area 3: All Current Federal employees within the Competitive and Excepted Service, and Competitive Service Reinstatement Eligible employees. Former NG T32 Dual Status employees receiving an Honorable or a General Discharge under Honorable Conditions are eligible for reinstatement provided they have been separated for at least one year before applying for reinstatement and received a rating of record of their most recent permanent position of a least fully successful (or equivalent).
Area 4: All currently assigned Active Guard/Reserve (AGR), and M-Day/Drill Status Guard (DSG) members of the Wyoming Air/Army NG. Currently serving and former NG Drill Status and M-Day soldiers and airmen are provided preference eligibility to compete for NG T5 positions.
* Veterans' Preference Rules are mandated by law and some applicants may receive priority consideration before other applicants without veterans' preference.
* Area 7: U.S. Citizens
Upon acceptance to this position, if selected candidate is a competitive employee, they will convert to Excepted Service and be required to sign a memorandum IAW 5 CFR 302.102. Acceptance of the proposed appointment will take the employee out of the competitive service while s/he occupies the position.
TITLE 5 POSITION INFORMATION:
Type of Appointment: Permanent
Tenure: Group 1 or 2
Work Schedule: Rotating Shifts
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Para/Line: 402A/034
Selecting Official: Mr. David Bartell
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
TIME-IN-GRADE: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have at least 52 weeks at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-09). An SF-50 that shows your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials.
If you are a current non-temporary GS employee applying for a higher grade than the grade you currently hold, provide an SF-50 that shows the required lower grade was held for at least one year. Some SF-50s effective within the last 52 weeks will not demonstrate the required lower grade was held for at least one year (e.g., General Adjustment SF-50 from this year). In many cases, we may need to see two (2) SF-50s to determine time-in-grade and eligibility for promotion. If you are a DoD employee, you may obtain copies of your SF-50(s) from MyBiz (https://compo.dcpds.cpms.osd.mil/)
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience which prepared you to work in this position. Specialized experience is defined as:
Experience in a military or civilian air traffic facility that demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the level of work of the specialization for which application is made. This experience must have provided a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate air traffic control laws, rules, and regulations. Issuing control instructions and advice to pilots in the vicinity of airports to assure proper separation of aircraft and to expedite their safe and efficient movement as prescribed in Federal Aviation Administration Order (FAAO) 7110.65.
You will also be required to provide a Narrative Response that explains how you meet the Specialized Experience requirements above.
NOTE: ATC Certifications, Specialized Experience, and responses to questionnaire will be used to determine qualifications for the announced position. Applicants must provide from (e.g., 02/2015 - 03/2017 or Feb 2017 - Mar 2017) dates and hours worked per week with description of your specialized experience on the resume.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES (KSAs)
This specialization also requires:
Ability to act decisively under stressful situations and to maintain alertness over sustained periods of pressure.
Skill to coordinate plans and actions with pilots and other controllers; and
Judgment to select and take the safest and most effective course of action from among several available choices.
CERTIFICATE AND RATING REQUIREMENTS:
Must possess and provide valid Air Traffic Control Specialist Certificate, Control Tower Operator, or FAA AOV certificate(s). These certificates require demonstrating knowledge of basic meteorology, basic air navigation, standard air traffic control and communications procedures, the types and uses of air navigation aids, and regulations governing air traffic.
Facility ratings require demonstration of a knowledge of the kind and location of radio aids to air navigation, the terrain, the landmarks, the communications systems and circuits, and the procedures peculiar to the area covered by the facility.
Must submit copy of Control Tower Operator (CTO) or FAA AOV certificates with application.
Must submit DD Form 2992, Medical Recommendation for Flying or Special Operational Duty, Army Class VI Flight Physical (e.g., Civilian Class II Certification) or equivalent with application.
DRIVER'S LICENSE:
Must possess a valid driver's license.
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/12/2026.
Education
High school or general equivalent degree is mandatory. An undergraduate academic specialization in a technical discipline with courses in administration and management is desirable. Must be a graduate of a formal DoD/Department of Transportation (DOT) Basic Air Traffic Control course. (Must include a legible copy of either CTO, FAA AOV, or pink card with application.)
Additional information
This position is in the Excepted Service "under the authority of Title V, P.L. 114-328, and Sections 932 and 1084 (FY17 NDAA)".
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered, or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (https://www.sss.gov/register/)
The Wyoming Military Department's (WYMD) 335, Personnel - General Merit Placement & Promotion Plan, is undergoing revision.
Please do not send/fax/courier/email any applications or resumes to the Wyoming National Guard Human Resource Office, you must apply on-line via www.USAJOBS.gov. The Human Resource can only process materials received through USA Jobs.
*** IF CLAIMING VETERANS' PREFERENCE
ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS: The VOW Act requires federal agencies to treat an eligible active-duty service member as a veteran, disabled veteran, and preference eligible (as applicable) when applying for positions before the effective release or discharge date. Appointment of military members before the release or discharge date is permissible if the member is on terminal leave. At the time the active-duty member applies for a position, he or she must submit a "certification" memo in lieu of a DD-Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Active-duty members applying for a position without submitting a valid certification memo or DD-Form 214 with their application will render the member ineligible for the position. The certification memo must originate from the member's military service branch on official letterhead and contain the fol

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The Army National Guard, headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a key constituent of the United States military, falling under the sector of Defense and Public Safety. Since its founding in 1636, it has served dual roles as both a state and federal military force that is activated in response to domestic emergencies and overseas combat missions. The Army National Guard embodies core values, including loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage, intending to uphold peace and serve the nation with unwavering dedication.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US