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Entry Level Air Traffic Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Air Force

$112K/yr

This experience must have provided a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate air traffic control laws, rules, and regulations. Examples of specialized experience include expertise in all matters ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$112K/yr

This experience must have provided a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate air traffic control laws, rules, and regulations. Examples of specialized experience include expertise in all matters ...

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Entry Level Air Traffic Control information

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$33K

$101.4K

$172.5K

How much do entry level air traffic control jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 an entry level air traffic control job?

Entry level air traffic control jobs are positions for individuals who are new to the field and are responsible for guiding and monitoring aircraft to ensure safe and efficient operations in the air and on the ground. These positions typically involve training at an FAA-approved facility and working under supervision before becoming fully certified. Entry level controllers usually start by handling less complex airspace or assisting more experienced controllers, gradually taking on more responsibility as they gain experience and complete additional training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level air traffic controller?

To thrive as an Entry Level Air Traffic Controller, you need strong spatial awareness, multitasking ability, and a solid educational background, often with a degree or training in aviation or air traffic management and successful completion of the FAA Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program or equivalent. Familiarity with radar systems, air traffic control simulators, and communication equipment is typically required. Excellent communication, decision-making under pressure, and teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and orderly flow of air traffic in a high-stakes environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level air traffic controllers during their initial training and first year on the job?

Entry-level air traffic controllers often encounter challenges such as managing high stress levels, adapting to shift work, and mastering complex communication protocols. The training process is rigorous and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on simulations, which can be intense and fast-paced. Additionally, new controllers must quickly learn to make critical decisions under pressure while maintaining safety and efficiency. Support from experienced colleagues and ongoing feedback are integral to overcoming these challenges and building confidence in the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Air Traffic Control vs Air Traffic Control Specialist?

AspectEntry Level Air Traffic ControlAir Traffic Control Specialist
Required CertificationsFAA Certification, Basic TrainingFAA Certification, Advanced Training
Work EnvironmentControl Towers, En Route CentersControl Towers, En Route Centers
Employer & Industry UsageFederal Aviation Administration, AirportsFederal Aviation Administration, Airports
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Air Traffic Control positions are the starting roles in the industry, requiring FAA certification and basic training. Air Traffic Control Specialists typically have more experience and may handle more complex responsibilities. Both roles operate in similar environments like control towers and en route centers, primarily within the aviation industry. The main difference lies in experience level and scope of duties, with entry-level roles serving as the foundation for career advancement in air traffic control.

How do I start a career in entry level air traffic control?

To start a career as an entry-level air traffic controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a series of assessments including the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA), and complete specialized training provided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Applicants must also pass medical and background checks and be able to work in high-pressure environments with irregular hours. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree or prior experience in related fields such as aviation or communications.

How hard is it to get hired as an entry level air traffic control?

Getting hired as an entry-level air traffic controller is competitive and involves passing a series of assessments, including aptitude tests, medical exams, and background checks. Candidates typically need relevant education, such as an associate's or bachelor's degree, and must complete rigorous training and certification through the Federal Aviation Administration or equivalent authority. The process can take several months to over a year due to the thorough screening and training requirements.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Air Traffic Control jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Air Traffic Control job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Air Traffic Control jobs?

The most popular types of Air Traffic Control jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Air Traffic Control jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Air Traffic Control jobs include:

Entry Level Air Traffic Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level 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.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST

US Department of the Air Force

On-site

$112K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the SPECIALIZED experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Air Traffic Control Series GS-2152.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least 1-year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level in the Federal service which includes experience in a military or civilian air traffic facility that demonstrated possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the level of work of the specialization for which application is made. This experience must have provided a comprehensive knowledge of appropriate air traffic control laws, rules, and regulations. Examples of specialized experience include expertise in all matters concerning military and civil aeronautical facility and aerodrome data; mastery of all phases of flight including planning, enroute, and terminal. Expertise interpreting and evaluating information from widely varying sources; editing and interpolating data to meet facility and airframe design specifications; compiling and publishing all products required for operational flight navigation; Expertise using computer systems and specialized software to maintain an aeronautical database and extract complex information to support a wide variety of products; Expertise working cooperatively with counterparts in other armed services, FAA, National Ocean Service (NOS), the United States intelligence community, and many foreign aeronautical offices to provide timely, accurate information and products; Extensive operational and management experience in instrument flight operations as a pilot or an air traffic controller. Experience with Air traffic control and/or flight inspection.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time--in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of concepts and principles contained in Air Force instructions, FAA handbooks, regulations and orders, and other publications pertaining to flight information publication requirements; and of approach procedure flyability, ATC policies and procedures, flight inspection requirements, geography, electronic data processing and navigational aids characteristics in order to certify instrument flight procedures.
  2. Knowledge of civil engineering rules and regulations relating to airport actual and imaginary surfaces, airfield waivers and airfield construction; and with the use and function of the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Aeronautical Information Publication Library.
  3. Knowledge of the rules, regulations, and procedures governing the conduct of air traffic control operations and the separation of aircraft in terminal radar approach control and control tower operations; and of the functional and operational limitations of all ATC equipment including radar systems, navigational aids (NAVAIDS), weather indicators, remote status indicators, radios, landlines, recording equipment, ATC simulation systems, and any other equipment pertaining to ATC services; and of significant weather conditions that affect the safety of air traffic operations.
  4. Skill in application and comparison of US TERPS and ICAO instrument procedure design criteria.
  5. Ability to use computer systems and printing devices to include GPD, desktop computers, large scale printers and similar data processing devices; and to extract required data from all associated source reference materials.
  6. Ability to communicate effectively and disseminate information clearly and concisely through written reports, memos, and procedures as well as presentations/briefings; and to make rapid and precise judgments in a real-time work situation. The incumbent interacts with Headquarters PACAF management, co-workers, aircrew members, air traffic personnel, and numerous Host nation authorities, etc. in the development of instrument approach procedures.
REQUIREMENTS: Air traffic control specialists in all specializations must possess or obtain, within uniformly applicable time limits, the facility ratings required for full performance at the facility where the position is located. Applicants must possess or obtain a valid Air Traffic Control Specialist Certificate and/or Control Tower Operator Certificate, if appropriate. These certificates require demonstrating knowledge of basic meteorology, basic air navigation, standard air traffic control and communications procedures, the types and uses of air navigation aids, and regulations governing air traffic.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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