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Control Tower Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... control tower. • Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars. • Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio ...

... control tower. • Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars. • Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio ...

Operation Manager

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$75K - $92K/yr

Operation Manager Time Type: Full Time Summary The Operation Manager - Control Tower will oversee the day-to-day operations of DSV's transportation and logistics division, ensuring that all ...

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Control Tower information

See Michigan salary details

$12

$16

$19

How much do control tower jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for control tower in Michigan is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Did air traffic controllers get paid $10,000?

Air traffic controllers typically earn salaries well above $10,000 per month, with the median annual wage around $130,000 according to industry data. Their compensation depends on experience, location, and certification levels, and they often work in high-pressure environments requiring specialized training and certification.

What is the difference between Control Tower vs Supply Chain Analyst?

AspectControl TowerSupply Chain Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires supply chain certifications, logistics experienceRequires analytical skills, often a degree in supply chain, logistics, or business
Work EnvironmentCentralized, often in logistics or supply chain departments, real-time monitoringOffice-based, data analysis, reporting, and process improvement
Industry UsageCommon in logistics, manufacturing, retailWidespread across industries including retail, manufacturing, and consulting
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in supply chain management, logistics coordinationAnalyzing supply chain data, improving processes

The Control Tower role focuses on real-time supply chain oversight and coordination, often requiring logistics certifications. In contrast, a Supply Chain Analyst primarily analyzes data to optimize supply chain processes. Both roles are vital in supply chain management but differ in scope and daily responsibilities.

How does a Control Tower professional typically collaborate with other departments to resolve supply chain disruptions?

Control Tower professionals play a central role in coordinating responses to supply chain disruptions by acting as a hub for cross-functional communication. They regularly interact with teams such as procurement, logistics, customer service, and IT to gather real-time data, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions. This collaboration often involves leading status meetings, sharing insights via dashboards, and ensuring all stakeholders have the latest information to make informed decisions. By fostering strong interdepartmental relationships, Control Tower professionals help maintain supply chain continuity and improve overall efficiency.

How much do tower controllers make?

Tower controllers, also known as air traffic control tower operators, typically earn a median annual salary of around $130,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and certification level, with some earning over $180,000 annually in high-demand areas. The role requires strong communication skills and certification from the Federal Aviation Administration or relevant authority.

Is ATC a hard job to get?

Control Tower positions are competitive and require specific qualifications, including FAA certification and training. Candidates often need a strong understanding of air traffic control procedures, good communication skills, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations, making the job challenging to enter but attainable with proper preparation.

What are control tower jobs?

Control tower jobs typically refer to roles within logistics, supply chain management, or air traffic control where professionals oversee, coordinate, and optimize the flow of goods or information. In a supply chain context, control tower teams use technology and data analytics to monitor shipments, manage disruptions, and ensure efficient operations across multiple stakeholders. In aviation, a control tower job involves managing air traffic and ensuring safe takeoffs, landings, and ground movements. These roles require strong problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills to respond quickly to dynamic situations.

How to get a job in control tower?

To get a job as a control tower operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant certifications such as air traffic control or logistics certifications. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, and experience in supply chain management or transportation can be advantageous. Some positions may require security clearances or specialized training provided by employers or regulatory agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control Tower Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Tower Operator, you need strong situational awareness, decision-making skills, and typically an air traffic control certification or equivalent aviation training. Familiarity with radar systems, radio communication equipment, and air traffic management software is essential. Exceptional communication, stress management, and teamwork are critical soft skills for this high-pressure environment. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and coordinated movement of aircraft, which is vital for aviation safety and operational efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Control Tower jobs in Michigan? For Control Tower jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Control Tower job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,863 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Conductor/Engineer - Kalamazoo, MI

Conductor/Engineer - Kalamazoo, MI

Watco

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 356 rated logistics


Job description

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all or the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:

• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities

Job Summary

The conductor/engineer position will control and coordinate the train movements while switching railcars whether in the yard of a railroad, industrial plant, or similar location to facilitate the unloading and loading of railcars in a safe and efficient manner to service our customers. This position is a manual labor position which requires that the individual become proficient in the following skills, duties, and requirements within a prescribed training and introductory period.  

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Demonstrate predictable, reliable, and timely attendance.  
• Follow written and verbal directions to complete assigned tasks on schedule.  
• Read, write, and communicate in English & understand basic math.  
• Learn from directions, observations, and mistakes and apply procedures using good judgment.  
• Reads switching orders from designated person.  
• Supervises and coordinates the activities of train crews. 
• Observes radio and hand signals in yard or in cab and operates locomotive in accordance with railroad rules and regulations. 
• Observes arm or lantern signal and moves controls to move locomotive backwards or forwards to switch and couple cars; or receives starting signal and moves control; such as throttle and air brakes to operate locomotive. 
• Reads and interprets wayside signals, track warrants and bulletins, and railroad rules and regulations to operate locomotive, following safety rules and regulations and time schedule. 
• Receives oral or written instructions from Manager or Customer indicating which cars are to be switched. 
• Notifies engineer of switching orders and, whereby, which cars are to be moved to specified locations of yard, using radio, telephone, verbal or hand signals. 
• Talks to crew or other yard workers via radio to give or receive switching information. 
• Confers with train dispatcher via radio to issue or receive information or instructions concerning stops, delays, or oncoming trains. 
• Gives instructions to throw track switches and to couple and uncouple cars. 
• May assist workers to throw switches or perform other activities involved when performing switching operations. 
• Turns hand brake wheel or ratchet type brake as well as apply and release handbrakes. 
• Observes track to detect obstructions.  
• Inspects locomotive after run to detect damaged or defective equipment. 
• Maintains records, number, origin, destination, and cargo of cars switched. 
• May coordinate activities of switching crew from locomotive cab, caboose, or control tower. 
• Raises coupling lever to couple or uncouple cars. 
• Throws track switches to facilitate shunting of cars and signals Engineer to move cars, using lantern, arm signals or radio. 
• Connects air hose to cars when making up trains by bending and applying force. 
• May set warning signals, such as flares, flags, lanterns, or torpedoes at front of and at rear of train during emergency stops to warn oncoming trains. 
• Sits or rides in cab of locomotive to observe signals from other crew members. 
• May make minor repairs to couplings, and air hoses and report any equipment requiring major repairs. 
• May talk to Engineer via radio to give or receive switching information. 
• Performs other duties as requested or required

Qualifications

Ability to pass training and required testing. 

Education
High School or GED equivalent

What Watco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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