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Contract Air Traffic Control Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat

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Contract Air Traffic Control information

See Indiana salary details

$31.4K

$96.5K

$164.1K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract air traffic control in Indiana is $96,474.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $128,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does working as a contract air traffic controller differ from working in a government-operated control tower?

Contract Air Traffic Controllers typically work at smaller airports managed by private companies under FAA contracts, rather than directly for the FAA. This means you may experience a more close-knit team environment and sometimes more flexible scheduling. However, you’ll still adhere to the same strict safety protocols and standards as government-employed controllers. Advancement opportunities can include moving into supervisory roles, training, or transferring to larger, busier contract towers. Collaboration with pilots, airport staff, and other controllers remains a core part of your daily responsibilities.

What is the difference between Contract Air Traffic Control vs Airport Traffic Control Specialist?

AspectContract Air Traffic ControlAirport Traffic Control Specialist
CredentialsFAA certifications, radar and tower certificationsFAA certifications, radar and tower certifications
Work EnvironmentContract basis at various airports, often temporaryFull-time employment at specific airports
Employer & Industry UsageContract agencies, airports, governmentAirport authorities, government agencies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for contract vs permanent rolesCompared for career stability and benefits

Contract Air Traffic Control and Airport Traffic Control Specialist roles share similar certifications and work environments, but differ mainly in employment type. Contract roles are temporary and offered through agencies, while specialists are full-time airport employees. Both roles require FAA certifications and work in airport control towers or radar facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract air traffic controller?

To thrive as a Contract Air Traffic Controller, you need comprehensive knowledge of aviation regulations, strong situational awareness, and typically an FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist Certificate or equivalent experience. Familiarity with radar systems, communication equipment, and specialized air traffic management software is crucial. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and clear verbal communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for ensuring the safe, efficient, and orderly flow of air traffic under demanding and high-pressure conditions.

What is a contract air traffic controller?

Contract Air Traffic Controllers are professionals who manage the safe and orderly flow of air traffic at airports or in designated airspace, but they are employed by private companies under contract rather than directly by the government. These controllers typically work at smaller airports under the Federal Aviation Administration’s Contract Tower Program. Their duties are similar to those of federal air traffic controllers, including directing aircraft during takeoff and landing, providing weather updates, and ensuring safe distances between planes. Despite being employed by private contractors, they must meet the same FAA certification and training standards. This arrangement helps provide essential air traffic services at airports that might not otherwise have them.
What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Control jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Air Traffic Control jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Contract Air Traffic Control job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,474 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

U.S. Navy

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

ABOUT

Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain extensive training in radar, sonar, and air traffic communications. If you feel more at home above the sea than on it, a career in aviation might be for you. Below are some examples of the vast opportunities in this field.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Commercial airlines aren’t the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways, inclement weather and mechanical issues to get personnel safely to the ground. Navy aircraft are

moving all the time, so it’s your responsibility to organize air traffic and communicate critical information to pilots. With extensive training in radar and air traffic communications, this rate is one of the easiest to translate into a civilian career post−service. As an Air Traffic Controller, you can command the skies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the most complex, high−stakes exercises on the planet. It’s no small task to ensure that each aircraft that leaves the flight deck performs its mission successfully and returns home safely. Navy Air Traffic Controllers are essential in directing the everyday complexities above and below the flight deck.

Their responsibilities include:

  • Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat
  • Operating radio communication systems and light signals
  • Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator
  • Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft
  • Interpreting data shown on radar screens to plot aircraft positions
  • Operating tactical weapons, sensors, and communications equipment
  • Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post−9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before, or whether you’ve never served before.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Make the world your home. You may be assigned to sea or shore squadrons on almost any continent. You will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments—from airborne aircraft to hangars, hangar decks to flight decks and flight lines at air stations and on aircraft carriers.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

The role above is an Active Duty opportunity in the Navy, however there are part-time roles available in Air Support for the Navy. Serving part−time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.


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Hours and flexibility

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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