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Faa Air Traffic Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

ORD Air Traffic Control Instructor

Chicago, IL

$40K - $80K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

CLT Air Traffic Control Instructor

Charlotte, NC · On-site

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 ...

SAIC

Air Traffic Control Instructor at HCF

Honolulu, HI

$40K - $80K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

DEN Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Denver, CO

$40K - $80K/yr

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 ...

SAIC

BOI Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

Boise, ID

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 ...

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Faa Air Traffic Control information

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

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for faa 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 FAA Air Traffic Control job?

An FAA Air Traffic Control job involves managing the safe and efficient movement of aircraft in the national airspace system. Air traffic controllers coordinate takeoffs, landings, and in-flight navigation to prevent collisions and minimize delays. They use radar, radio communication, and advanced technology to guide pilots and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Controllers work in control towers, approach and departure facilities, or en-route centers, depending on their specific role. The job requires strong decision-making skills, intense focus, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.

How do you become an FAA air traffic controller?

To become an FAA air traffic controller, candidates must meet age and education requirements, pass a medical exam, and complete the FAA Academy training program. Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree or three years of related work experience, and must pass a series of tests including the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA). Successful candidates then undergo rigorous training before being assigned to an air traffic control facility.

What is the typical work environment like for an FAA Air Traffic Control specialist?

FAA Air Traffic Control specialists generally work in airport control towers, en route centers, or terminal radar approach control facilities, each presenting its own unique pace and set of responsibilities. The environment is highly structured and technology-driven, often requiring shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Controllers regularly collaborate with pilots, other controllers, and airport personnel to coordinate the safe and timely flow of air traffic. While the role is demanding and fast-paced, it offers a strong sense of teamwork and critical responsibility in ensuring aviation safety.

Why is there a shortage of FAA traffic controllers?

The FAA Air Traffic Control profession faces a shortage due to an aging workforce, high stress levels, and the demanding nature of the job requiring rigorous training and certification. Budget constraints and increased workload also contribute to staffing challenges, leading to delays in hiring and training new controllers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Faa Air Traffic Control position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an FAA Air Traffic Control specialist, you need excellent situational awareness, multitasking abilities, quick decision-making skills, and typically an associate's or bachelor's degree along with passing the FAA's rigorous training program. Familiarity with radar systems, communication equipment, and FAA-specific traffic management software is essential. Strong communication, stress management, and teamwork skills distinguish outstanding controllers in this high-pressure field. These competencies are critical for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft and for maintaining order in busy and fast-changing airspace environments.

How much do FAA traffic controllers make?

FAA air traffic controllers earn a median annual salary of approximately $130,000, with salaries ranging from around $80,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, location, and shift differentials. They typically undergo rigorous training and certification, and their compensation reflects the high responsibility and skill required for managing air traffic safely.

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

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) typically requires air traffic controllers to start training before age 30 because the job demands high mental acuity, quick decision-making, and the ability to handle stress, which can decline with age. Additionally, controllers must pass medical and psychological evaluations, and the training program is designed for individuals who can meet these physical and cognitive requirements early in their careers.
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Faa Air Traffic Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Faa Air Traffic Control job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,385 per year, or $48.7 per hour.
Air Traffic Control Specialist (Part Time)

Air Traffic Control Specialist (Part Time)

Millington-Memphis Airport

Millington, TN • On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Under the supervision and direction of the Air Traffic Control Manager / Airport Director, this is a part-time position with Millington Airport Authority. The Air Traffic Control Specialist is responsible for providing air traffic control services during locally staffed operational hours at the Millington–Memphis Airport Non-Federal Control Tower. The position supports the safe, orderly, and efficient movement of aircraft operating at and in the vicinity of the airport. ATC Specialists will operate consistent with applicable FAA guidance and standard air traffic control procedures.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide air traffic control services for aircraft arrivals, departures, and ground movements

• Manage traffic pattern operations and sequencing

• Issue taxi, takeoff, and landing instructions using standard FAA phraseology

• Maintain situational awareness of aircraft and vehicle activity on the airfield

• Coordinate aircraft operations with surrounding FAA air traffic control facilities as required

• Monitor weather conditions and relay information to pilots when appropriate

• Maintain tower operational logs and documentation

• Report operational incidents, equipment issues, or safety concerns

Operational Duties

ATC Specialists are responsible for:

• Safe and efficient aircraft movement on runways and taxiways

• Monitoring and controlling vehicle access to movement areas

• Maintaining communication with aircraft and airport personnel

• Supporting emergency aircraft operations when required

• Adhering to procedures outlined in the NQA Non-Federal Tower Operations Manual

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to maintain situational awareness and make sound operational decisions

• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

• Learn and follow department Policies, Procedures, and Protocols.

• Respond appropriately to emergency situations.

• Maintain safety and professional standards, including the expectation to

• maintain professional conduct at all times

• adhere to established operational procedures

• prioritize safety in all operational decisions

• communicate clearly using standard FAA phraseology

Requirements

Education & Experience

· Control Tower Operator (CTO) Certificate required.

· Current Class II Medical Certificate.

· Previous air traffic control experience in a tower environment required.

· Familiarity with FAA air traffic control procedures and phraseology required.

· Candidates with previous FAA or Federal Contract Tower Specialist experience preferred.

· Candidates with recent operational experience preferred.

Physical Demands

· Must be able to climb stairs consisting of 55 steps to reach duty station.

· Ability to remain alert and attentive for extended periods.

· Ability to communicate clearly via radio and telephone.

· Ability to work evening and overnight hours.

· Work will be performed indoors.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an air traffic control tower environment and requires:

• continuous situational awareness

• effective communication

• the ability to manage multiple aircraft operations simultaneously

Special Requirements

· Successful completion of pre-employment drug screening is required. Position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident)

· Must maintain physical fitness standards in accordance with Class II Medical Certificate.

· Successful completion of a pre-employment background check is required.

· Upon hiring, candidate is subject to a six-month probationary period.

· May be required to work rotating shifts, schedules, including weekends and holidays.

· Typical schedule will include evening shifts Monday through Friday (2000-0200) and evening shifts on Saturday (1900-0200).

· ATC Specialists may work on a rotational schedule (week on / week off) depending on staffing assignments.

Benefits

Benefits

  • Hourly rate commensurate with experience and qualifications.
  • Hourly rate is $45-$55/hour for candidates that meet all of the requirements and that possess local (KNQA) experience. All candidate experience will be verified.
  • Limited benefits may be offered in accordance with airport personnel policies.

The Millington Airport Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer