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Overnight Air Traffic Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Overnight Air Traffic Controller information

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$12

$23

$40

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for overnight 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 is an overnight air traffic controller?

Overnight Air Traffic Controllers are professionals responsible for managing and directing the safe movement of aircraft during nighttime hours, often when air traffic is lighter but can present unique operational challenges. They monitor radar, communicate with pilots, and coordinate takeoffs, landings, and in-flight routing to ensure safety and efficiency. Working overnight requires heightened alertness due to reduced visibility and fewer support staff on duty. These controllers are critical for maintaining 24/7 operational safety in the aviation industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an overnight air traffic controller?

To thrive as an Overnight Air Traffic Controller, you need strong situational awareness, rapid decision-making abilities, and completion of FAA-approved training with certification. Familiarity with radar systems, flight tracking software, and radio communication equipment is essential. Exceptional stress management, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help controllers excel during high-pressure, overnight operations. These abilities are crucial to ensuring the safety and efficiency of air traffic during less staffed and potentially more challenging nighttime hours.

What unique challenges do overnight air traffic controllers face, and how can candidates prepare for them?

Overnight Air Traffic Controllers often encounter challenges such as maintaining alertness during less active hours and adapting to irregular sleep schedules. The quieter overnight environment can lead to periods of low activity punctuated by sudden, critical situations requiring rapid response. Successful candidates prepare by developing strong fatigue management strategies, practicing situational awareness, and staying updated on procedures during off-peak hours. Team collaboration remains essential, as controllers coordinate with colleagues across time zones and shifts to ensure seamless operations.

What is the difference between Overnight Air Traffic Controller vs Ground Control Specialist?

AspectOvernight Air Traffic ControllerGround Control Specialist
CredentialsFAA certification, radar and communication trainingFAA certification, radar and communication training
Work EnvironmentControl towers, airports, radar facilitiesControl towers, airports, radar facilities
Industry UsageAir traffic management, safety, and navigationGround operations, aircraft movement coordination
Common Search IntentJob differences, responsibilities, qualificationsJob roles, duties, certifications

Overnight Air Traffic Controllers and Ground Control Specialists both work in airport environments, requiring FAA certification and radar training. While air traffic controllers manage aircraft in the sky, ground control specialists focus on aircraft movements on the ground. Both roles are essential for airport safety and operations, but they differ in their specific responsibilities and work focus.

Is it difficult to get hired as an overnight air traffic controller?

Getting hired as an overnight air traffic controller can be competitive due to strict qualification requirements, including specialized training, certifications, and a thorough background check. Candidates often need to demonstrate strong communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and pass rigorous testing, which can make the hiring process challenging.

What cities are hiring for Overnight Air Traffic Controller jobs?

Cities with the most Overnight Air Traffic Controller job openings:

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

The most popular types of Air Traffic Controller jobs are:

What states have the most Overnight Air Traffic Controller jobs?

States with the most job openings for Overnight Air Traffic Controller jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Overnight Air Traffic Controller jobs?

For Overnight Air Traffic Controller jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Aurora, IL • On-site

U.S. Navy
National Security • 10K+ employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 381 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


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.


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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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