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Entry Level Air Traffic Control Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Des Moines, IA · On-site

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

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

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

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Iowa City, IA · On-site

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

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Clinton, IA · On-site

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

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Davenport, IA · On-site

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

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Waterloo, IA · On-site

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

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Sioux City, IA · On-site

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

Highway Signing Inc.

Skilled Laborer

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Train and guide entry-level crew members when needed Requirements: * General Construction or traffic control experience * Valid driver's license * Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work outdoors in all ...

Highway Signing, Inc.

Skilled Laborer

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Train and guide entry-level crew members when needed Requirements: * General Construction or traffic control experience * Valid driver's license * Ability to lift 50+ lbs and work outdoors in all ...

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All JobsAir Traffic Control JobsEntry Level Air Traffic Control JobsEntry Level Air Traffic Control Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Air Traffic Control information

See Iowa salary details

$31K

$95.2K

$162K

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

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level air traffic control in Iowa is $95,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $126,800.00 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.

Entry Level Air Traffic Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Air Traffic Control job openings in Iowa 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 $95,227 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

U.S. Navy

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 26 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.

What United States Navy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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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

Social media

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