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Landing Zone Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Computer Vision Engineer

Austin, TX

$103K - $142K/yr

Today, Skyways aircraft operate across three continents in controlled national airspace under FAA ... You will develop computer vision systems for autonomous landing, targetless landing zone evaluation ...

Senior Computer Vision Engineer

Austin, TX

$103K - $142K/yr

Today, Skyways aircraft operate across three continents in controlled national airspace under FAA ... You will develop computer vision systems for autonomous landing, targetless landing zone evaluation ...

Senior Computer Vision Engineer

Austin, TX

$103K - $142K/yr

Today, Skyways aircraft operate across three continents in controlled national airspace under FAA ... You will develop computer vision systems for autonomous landing, targetless landing zone evaluation ...

Senior Azure Engineer

Jackson, MS ยท Remote

$111K - $151K/yr

Lead the implementation of a landing zone architecture using TerraForm to establish a well ... controlled, consistent, and repeatable. * Build, maintain, and optimize CI/CD pipelines in Azure ...

GCP Architect

Charlotte, NC ยท On-site

$70/hr

Strong expertise in Google Cloud Landing Zone design and implementation. * Experience with cloud ... Optimize cloud performance while controlling operational costs. * Provide technical leadership and ...

Software Engineer

Westminster, CO ยท On-site

$80 - $94/hr

Strong expertise in Google Cloud Landing Zone design and implementation. * Experience with cloud ... Optimize cloud performance while controlling operational costs. * Provide technical leadership and ...

Cloud Engineer III

Las Vegas, NV ยท Hybrid

$53.25 - $71.25/hr

This role is responsible for building the underlying GCP foundation that AI systems depend on-including landing zones, networking, identity, data protection, and controlled access to services such as ...

Cloud Engineer III

Las Vegas, NV ยท Hybrid

$53.75 - $72/hr

This role is responsible for building the underlying GCP foundation that AI systems depend on--including landing zones, networking, identity, data protection, and controlled access to services such ...

Cloud Engineer III

Las Vegas, NV ยท Hybrid

$53.25 - $71.25/hr

This role is responsible for building the underlying GCP foundation that AI systems depend on--including landing zones, networking, identity, data protection, and controlled access to services such ...

Cloud Engineer III

Las Vegas, NV ยท Hybrid

$53.75 - $72/hr

This role is responsible for building the underlying GCP foundation that AI systems depend on--including landing zones, networking, identity, data protection, and controlled access to services such ...

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Landing Zone Controller information

See salary details

$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do landing zone controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for landing zone controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Landing Zone Controller vs Network Operations Technician?

AspectLanding Zone ControllerNetwork Operations Technician
CertificationsCCNA, CompTIA Network+CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentData centers, cloud environments, network infrastructureNetwork operation centers, enterprise networks
Industry UsageIT, cloud services, cybersecurityTelecommunications, IT support
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging landing zones, network provisioning, security controlsMonitoring network performance, troubleshooting, maintenance

The Landing Zone Controller focuses on managing and configuring network landing zones, ensuring secure and efficient setup for cloud or data center environments. In contrast, the Network Operations Technician primarily monitors and maintains existing network infrastructure. Both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, but their core functions differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the main challenges a Landing Zone Controller faces during high-traffic operations, and how can they effectively manage them?

A Landing Zone Controller often faces significant challenges during periods of high traffic, such as coordinating multiple aircraft arrivals and departures, ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed, and maintaining clear communication with pilots and ground crews. To effectively manage these challenges, controllers must remain calm under pressure, prioritize tasks rapidly, and utilize established communication and management protocols. Regular training, situational awareness, and strong teamwork with other aviation professionals are crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient landing zone environment.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Landing Zone Controller typically earns less than $10,000 a month without a degree, as this role often requires specialized training or certifications. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree include certain sales positions, skilled trades like commercial pilot or real estate broker, and entrepreneurship, but these often depend on experience, skills, and market conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Landing Zone Controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Landing Zone Controller, you need strong situational awareness, excellent communication skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation safety protocols, often supported by relevant military or aviation training. Familiarity with radio communication systems, navigation equipment, and mapping tools is typically required. Leadership, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe and efficient aircraft landings and takeoffs, especially in dynamic or high-risk environments.

Is it hard to get hired as an air traffic controller?

Landing Zone Controllers, similar to air traffic controllers, often face a competitive hiring process that requires passing written exams, physical and psychological assessments, and obtaining specific certifications. The job demands strong communication skills, quick decision-making, and the ability to handle high-stress environments, which can make the hiring process challenging.

What are Landing Zone Controllers?

Landing Zone Controllers are professionals responsible for managing and coordinating the safe arrival and departure of aircraft or drones within a specified landing area, often referred to as the 'landing zone.' They communicate with pilots, ground crew, and sometimes emergency response teams to ensure that landing and takeoff operations are conducted safely and efficiently. Landing Zone Controllers are commonly found in military, emergency medical services, and disaster response operations, where precise coordination is crucial. Their duties may also include assessing the suitability of the landing zone, providing real-time updates, and enforcing safety protocols.

What air force jobs pay the most in civilian life?

Landing Zone Controllers typically transition into civilian roles such as air traffic controllers, operations managers, or security specialists, which tend to offer higher salaries. These positions often require certifications, experience with radar or communication systems, and knowledge of safety protocols, leading to increased earning potential in the civilian sector.

What qualifications do I need for an air traffic controller?

Air traffic controllers typically need a bachelor's degree or equivalent, pass a medical exam, and complete FAA or relevant agency training programs. They must also pass written and practical exams, and often require strong communication, decision-making, and multitasking skills.
Infographic showing various Landing Zone Controller job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.
AIRFIELD MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

AIRFIELD MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST

US Department of the Air Force

Charleston Air Force Base, SC โ€ข On-site

$61K/yr

Other

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The primary purpose of this position is: Responsible for performing landing zone safety (LZSO), drop zone safety (DZSO), and drop zone controller (DZC) duties. Ensures that Air Mobility Command and DoD-wide mission objectives are maintained to combat ready mission status.
Qualifications:Conditions of Employment Continued:
  • Must possess a current and valid state driver's license and be able to obtain and maintain a valid government driver's license for the operation of specialty vehicles, to include five and six passenger trucks, all purpose vehicles, HUMV vehicles, tactical vehicles, and grounds maintenance support equipment.
  • This is a Mission Essential (ME) position performing a Mission Critical Function (MCF) which must continue uninterrupted after the occurrence of an emergency and continued through full resumption of all functions. IAW, DoDI 3020-42, Defense Continuity Programs. This position may be designated mission essential based on local conditions. Mission essential personnel report for duty at normal times when the base is closed or delayed reporting, and remain on duty during phased or early release.
  • This is a Key Position. The duties of this position meet all requirements as a category 4 designation, and shall not be vacated during a national emergency or mobilization without seriously impairing the capability of the parent Federal Agency or office to function effectively. This position must be removed from the Ready Reserve and CANNOT become a member of the Ready Reserve. (IAW: DoDD 1250.7, "Screening the Ready Reserve,")

In order to qualify, you must meet the requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Administrative and Management Positions.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-07, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience include: Knowledge of the laws, regulations and procedures governing the movement of aircraft in a simulated combat environment; Knowledge of a wide range of Landing Zone/Drop Zone (LZ/DZ) training, contingency operations and financial planning principles, practices, procedures and regulations applicable to operations readiness responsibilities on a military installation as well as government leased properties. Knowledge of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, Special Operations, and other federal government agency force structure, doctrine, command relationships, organization, operational concepts/procedures, core mission requirements, lines of authority, and the applicable guidance and policy for their training and employment; Knowledge of the organization, programs, mission and functions of the installation and MAJCOM to plan, schedule and coordinate effective and safe LZ/DZ training for aircrews; Knowledge of LZ/DZ range support theories, principles, and doctrine in order to conduct fact-finding and develop source information for resolving problems/issues; Knowledge and skill in applying and evaluative methods and techniques to issues or studies involving the efficiency and effectiveness of LZ/DZ operations.
OR
EDUCATION: Master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D. with a major study in accounting, business administration, business or commercial law, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, industrial management, statistics, traffic management, transportation, motor mechanics, or other fields related to the position. NOTE: You must submit a copy of Transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: A combination of education and experience may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
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-07 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-09 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 the laws, rules, regulations and procedures governing the movement of aircraft conducting landing/drop zone operations. Prior experience as a USAF Special Tactics Combat Controller (minimum 6 years of experience is highly desired).
  2. Knowledge of operational tactics, techniques, procedures, activities structure and organization, to apply DoD, Joint, AMC and Air Force management of training operations principles, concepts and methodologies.
  3. Knowledge and skill of a wide range of assault zone control/support procedures, responsibilities, and equipment, including civil air to ground radio systems, military portable plain text and secure voice radio systems, lighting systems, portable navigational aids, weather limitations, communication requirements, and the ability to identify and report hazards, to facilitate the safety of aircrew and ground personnel conducting assault zone training.
  4. Knowledge of, and the ability to apply, the applicable laws, rules, and regulations and procedures governing the movement of aircraft operations on a landing/drop zone, landing/drop zone airfield lighting, weather instructions, use of landlines, and any other equipment pertaining to providing landing/drop zone services to include night operations conducted with the aid of night vision devices.
  5. Skill in use of basic computer software (i.e., Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook) to document support activities, and produce reports/briefings. Ability to plan, organize and manage operations and training program requirements and objectives within available resources and to conduct joint exercise planning up to and including the Corps level that exercise joint integration and tactics. Knowledge of instructional techniques and development of tactical field training requirements.
  6. Ability to gather facts, interpret and evaluate data, identify potential problems, offer meaningful recommendations (knowing the impact) and/or resolutions. Ability to communicate effectively orally (quickly, precisely, and distinctly) and in writing; with ability to remain calm under stressful conditions. Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative techniques for analyzing and measuring effectiveness and efficiency of training operations. Knowledge and skill in operating Radio Frequency (RF), Ultraviolet light (UV), and Infrared radiation (IR) equipment; and a thorough understanding of the effects of these systems on aircraft and on board systems.

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:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER