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Atc Instructor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC ...

ZMP Remote Pilot Operator

Farmington, MN · On-site +1

$40K - $80K/yr

Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors) * Experience and certification in ATC ...

Atc Instructor information

What are ATC Instructors?

ATC Instructors are professionals who teach and train aspiring air traffic controllers in both classroom and simulation environments. They are responsible for developing students' understanding of air traffic control procedures, regulations, and communication protocols. ATC Instructors often have previous experience as air traffic controllers themselves and use that expertise to guide trainees through realistic scenarios and assessments. Their primary goal is to ensure future controllers are fully prepared to handle the complexities and safety demands of airspace management.

What is the difference between Atc Instructor vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectAtc InstructorAir Traffic Controller
Required CertificationsFAA or equivalent instructor certifications, ATC training credentialsFAA or equivalent ATC license, certification
Work EnvironmentTraining centers, classrooms, simulation labsControl towers, approach control facilities, radar rooms
Employer & Industry UsageAirports, aviation training organizationsAirports, airline operations, military airfields

While both roles require FAA or equivalent certifications, Atc Instructors focus on training and educating future air traffic controllers in classroom and simulation settings. Air Traffic Controllers operate in control towers or radar facilities, managing live air traffic. The roles are interconnected, with instructors preparing controllers for their duties in real-world environments.

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

To thrive as an ATC Instructor, you need an extensive background in air traffic control operations, a relevant certification or license, and experience in both ATC and instructional roles. Familiarity with radar simulation software, training management systems, and industry-standard communication tools is essential. Exceptional communication, patience, and the ability to provide constructive feedback are crucial soft skills that make an instructor effective. These competencies ensure that trainees receive accurate, safe, and effective instruction, which is vital for maintaining high standards in air traffic management.

What are some common challenges faced by ATC Instructors when training new air traffic controllers?

ATC Instructors often face the challenge of adapting their teaching methods to suit trainees with varying learning styles and backgrounds. Additionally, balancing the need to simulate high-pressure, real-world scenarios while ensuring a supportive learning environment can be demanding. Instructors must stay current with evolving regulations and technology, which requires continuous professional development. Collaboration with other instructors and operational supervisors is also important to ensure training consistency and address performance issues early.
What are popular job titles related to Atc Instructor jobs in Minnesota? For Atc Instructor jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Atc Instructor job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
ZMP - Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

ZMP - Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

SAIC

Farmington, MN

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 230 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2611852

Location: Farmington, MN, US

Date Posted: 2026-04-23

Category: Training

Subcategory: Training Analyst

Schedule: Casual (includes On-Call and Temporary)

Shift: Rotating

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description


  • ATTN FERS RETIREES: Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site Supervisor working on this program are EXEMPT from the Supplemental Annuity earnings limits for FERS retirees between the ages of 56 and 62.

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Minneapolis ARTCC (ZMP), located at Farmington, MN, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate strong technical skills with current ATC automation, simulation systems and procedures. This position may provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO), and may participate in curriculum design and development. The selected candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills applicable for obtaining radar and/or non-radar simulation laboratory certifications at FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System.

The CTS Instructor is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to effectively and consistently deliver the highest quality classroom and/or simulation laboratory training to a wide variety of students including developmental air traffic controllers and Certified Professional Controllers (CPC).

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.

Qualifications



Required Qualifications:

  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • The CTS Instructor candidate must have a minimum of five (5) years of FAA CPC experience controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or greater] level of ATC facility as the Minneapolis ARTCC (ZMP)

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Minneapolis ARTCC (ZMP) is preferred but not required
  • Operational Experience with ATC simulators including scenario design for simulation platforms (e.g. TSS, AT Coach, SGET, etc.)
  • Demonstrated ability to interface effectively with FAA personnel at all levels to ensure the delivery of training services meet the needs of the local facility, as well as the FAA’s overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired
  • Experience demonstrating excellent teaching and/or platform skills, classroom management techniques, and a student-focused drive for continuous improvement

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required
  • FAA Certified Professional Controller (CPC) certification required with the ability to obtain and maintain Instructor-II Simulation Laboratory and Classroom Certification

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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