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Navy Air Traffic Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Tulsa, OK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Morgantown, WV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Wilmington, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Portland, ME · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Brookings, SD · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Portland, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Rochester, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

El Paso, TX · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Overland Park, KS · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Laramie, WY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Kenosha, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Macon, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Tucson, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Springfield, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Ogden, UT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Jonesboro, AR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Norfolk, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

U.S. Navy

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Pomona, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

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Navy Air Traffic Controller information

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$12

$23

$40

How much do navy air traffic controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for navy air traffic controller in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $27.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the common challenges Navy Air Traffic Controllers face during their shifts?

Navy Air Traffic Controllers often work in high-pressure environments where quick decision-making and attention to detail are crucial. Managing aircraft during rapidly changing weather conditions, coordinating with multiple teams both on land and at sea, and handling emergencies such as equipment malfunctions or unexpected flight path changes are frequent challenges. Controllers must remain calm and focused, ensuring the safety and efficiency of all aircraft under their guidance, while adapting to the dynamic nature of military operations.

How much does a Navy air traffic controller make?

A Navy air traffic controller's salary varies based on rank, experience, and years of service, but typically ranges from approximately $40,000 to $80,000 annually. They receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement options, and must complete specialized training and certifications to perform their duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Navy Air Traffic Controller?

To thrive as a Navy Air Traffic Controller, you need strong situational awareness, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret radar and flight data, typically supported by specialized military training and certification. Familiarity with radar systems, radio communication equipment, and military air traffic control software is essential. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and clear verbal communication are crucial soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These competencies are vital to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, maintain operational readiness, and prevent accidents in both routine and emergency scenarios.

What is the difference between Navy Air Traffic Controller vs Air Traffic Controller?

AspectNavy Air Traffic ControllerAir Traffic Controller
CredentialsMilitary training, security clearance, FAA certificationFAA certification, sometimes military experience
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, naval stations, military aircraft operationsCommercial and regional airports, control towers
Employer & IndustryU.S. Navy, military aviationCommercial airlines, airports, FAA

Both roles involve managing aircraft movements, but Navy Air Traffic Controllers operate primarily within military settings with specialized training and security clearances, while civilian Air Traffic Controllers work at commercial airports under FAA regulations. The core skills are similar, but the environments and certifications differ.

What is a Navy Air Traffic Controller?

Navy Air Traffic Controllers are specialized personnel responsible for managing and directing the safe and orderly movement of aircraft on naval airfields and in the surrounding airspace. They provide instructions to pilots during takeoff, landing, and while en route, ensuring that aircraft avoid collisions and operate efficiently. These controllers use radar, radios, and other communication tools to monitor and guide both military and civilian aircraft. Their role is crucial for maintaining the safety and effectiveness of naval aviation operations. Navy Air Traffic Controllers must complete rigorous training and are often stationed at naval air stations or on aircraft carriers.
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Navy Air Traffic Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Navy Air Traffic Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,810 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

U.S. Navy

Tulsa, OK • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 24 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

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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

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