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Contract Air Traffic Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired. * Experience demonstrating excellent ...

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... the FAA's overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired * Experience demonstrating ...

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired. * Experience demonstrating excellent ...

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired. * Experience demonstrating excellent ...

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Desired Skills and ...

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System. Desired Skills and ...

... contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or ... overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired. * Experience demonstrating excellent ...

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Contract Air Traffic Control information

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$33K

$101.4K

$172.5K

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

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract 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.

How much do contract air traffic controllers make?

Contract air traffic controllers typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. They often work irregular hours and must hold certifications such as the FAA Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate.

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.

Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?

Air traffic controllers typically earn well above $10,000 per month, with starting salaries often around $40,000 to $50,000 annually and increasing with experience and certifications. Their pay depends on factors such as location, experience, and shift differentials, and they usually work in a highly regulated environment requiring specialized training and certification.

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.

Are there contract air traffic controllers?

Yes, contract air traffic controllers are employed by government agencies or private contractors to manage air traffic. They typically work in controlled environments such as airports and must hold relevant certifications and undergo rigorous training. Contract positions can offer flexible schedules and varied assignments within the air traffic control industry.

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

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 are Contract Air Traffic Controllers?

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.

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

Contract air traffic controllers typically face age limits due to the physical and mental demands of the job, which require quick decision-making, high concentration, and the ability to handle stress. Many agencies set maximum age limits, often around 30 or 31, to ensure controllers can meet the job's rigorous standards throughout their careers. These age restrictions are based on safety and health considerations, not on experience or skill level.
More about Contract Air Traffic Control jobs
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What states have the most Contract Air Traffic Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Air Traffic Control jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Air Traffic Control jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Air Traffic Control jobs are:
P80 Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

P80 Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

SAIC

Portland, OR

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 204 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2613327

Location: Portland, OR, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-04

Category: Training

Subcategory: Training Analyst

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

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, Full-time, Air Traffic Control Instructor to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Portland TRACON (P80) in Portland, OR, 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 Portland TRACON (P80) .

Desired Skills and Experience:

·    Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Portland TRACON (P80) 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.


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