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Army Air Traffic Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Boeing ATCT (BFI) in Seattle, WA, supporting air traffic ...

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 ...

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ATCT (ORD) in Chicago, IL, supporting air traffic ...

We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Seattle TRACON (S46) in Burien, WA, supporting air ...

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We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Spokane ATCT (GEG) in Spokane, WA, supporting air traffic ...

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Chicago ATCT (ORD) in Chicago, IL, supporting air traffic ...

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 ...

We are looking for an experienced, Part-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Las Vegas TRACON (L30), located in Las Vegas, NV ...

We are looking for an experienced, Full time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Spokane ATCT (GEG) in Spokane, WA, supporting air traffic ...

Showing results 21-40

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 22, 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Can I become an Army Air Traffic Control in the military?

Yes, you can become an Army Air Traffic Control specialist by enlisting in the Army and completing the required training at the Military Occupational Specialty school. Candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and meet physical fitness standards; training includes learning radar systems, communication procedures, and airspace management. Certification and ongoing training are required to maintain proficiency in air traffic control operations within the military environment.

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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,385 per year, or $48.7 per hour.

Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) with Security Clearance

Department of the Army

Schofield Barracks, HI • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago


United States Army rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 493 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties * You will supervise a workforce consisting of personnel performing duties of supervisory air traffic control (ATC) specialists, air traffic control training specialists, electronic technicians, and maintenance technicians. * You will plan and direct ATC operations, establishing job requirements and long-range work plans to include budgets. * You will serve as a member of the aviation safety committee and aviation standards committee. * You will ensure the facilities are staffed with a sufficient number of qualified personnel. Requirements Conditions of employment * Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation. * You must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. * This position is supervisory as defined by the Office of Personnel Management's (OPM) General Schedule Supervisory Guide (GSSG). A one-year probation to assess your ability to perform supervisory duties is required unless previously completed. * This position is obligated. You will be asked to sign an agreement acknowledging that you are aware of the obligation and willing to be displaced under reduction in force procedures upon the return of the former incumbent. * May be required to complete occasional business travel. * This position has been designated "Mission Essential". In the event of severe weather conditions or other emergency type situations (natural or man-made disaster) you must report to work or remain at work as scheduled to support mission operations. * In accordance with AR 690-11, this position has been designated as "Key" and shall not be vacated during a national emergency or mobilization. The incumbent must be exempted from recall to active duty. * This is a drug testing designated position (TDP) under the Department of the Army Drug-Free Federal Workplace Program. Must sign DA Form 5019 acknowledging both pre-appointment and periodic random drug testing requirements. * Must possess and maintain Air Traffic Control Specialist certification and a control tower operator's license. * Must certify in both the Control Tower Operation and Airspace Information center within the time limits specified in AR 95-2/TC3-04.81. * Must have or be able to obtain and maintain U.S. Army Class IV medical certificate, which includes annual physical exam and may include participation in an approved physical fitness program IAW AR 40-501. * You must successfully complete a pre-employment physical prior to being placed into this position. Qualifications This position is covered under Special Retirement Coverage (SRC) and may have both a maximum entry age and mandatory retirement date, Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to apply for this job. You will be asked to identify which category or categories you meet, and to provide documents which prove you meet the category or categories you selected. See for an extensive list of document requirements for all employment authorities. * 30 Percent or More Disabled Veterans
* Current Department of Army Civilian Employees
* Current Department of Defense (DOD) Civilian Employee (non-Army)
* Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan
* Military Spouses, under Executive Order (E.O.) 13473
* Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentality (NAFI)
* Non-Department of Defense (DoD) Transfer
* Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
* Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible
* Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
* Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is . Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes directing Air Traffic Control operations and personnel, developing airfield contingency plans, and acting as a liaison on matters of airspace and air traffic control. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12). In addition to meeting the specialized experience requirement above, applicants must also be a graduate of a DoD component or FAA approved formal Air Traffic Controller school and possess Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) and Control Tower Operator (CTO) certification. NOTE: You must attach copies of your certifications to your application package. Failure to do so will result in an ineligible rating. Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted. You will be evaluated on the basis of your level of competency in the following areas: * Compliance
* Planning and Evaluating
* Technical Competence Time in Grade Requirement: Applicants who have held a General Schedule (GS) position within the last 52 weeks must have 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-12). Maximum Entry Age: Employees hired for the first time ("originally hired") into GS-2152 positions must not exceed the established Maximum Entry Age (MEA) at the time of appointment. The MEA for an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) is 36. An employee originally hired into a covered ATC position must be hired by the last day of the month he/she reaches 36 unless a waiver from Department of Army is approved prior to appointment. As this is a Special Retirement covered ATC position, your application package must include a government-issued document indicating your date of birth. Failure to submit this document will result in your application being marked as incomplete and you WILL NOT receive further consideration for this position. Additional information * Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration. * You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship. * This position requires a one year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest. * Direct deposit of pay is required. * Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees. * If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the information sheet. * This is an Aviation Career Field position. * Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. * Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement. * When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit for more information. * Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations. * A recruitment or relocation incentive may be authorized. * An incentive for student loan repayment may be authorized. * Term Appointment NTE - Position may be filled as a Term Appointment NTE 5 years. Term appointments may be extended beyond six (6) years, up to eight (8) years. With DoD approval, Term appointments may be extended beyond eight (8) years. * Current permanent Federal employees (to include permanent Army employees) applying for a Term appointment will be appointed/converted into a Term appointment with no statutory return rights back to a permanent position.

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National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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