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Professional Air Traffic Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER Commercial airlines aren't the only ones who need traffic management. In the ... Professional credentials and certifications * College credit hours toward a bachelor's or associate ...

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Showing results 1-20

Professional Air Traffic Controller information

See salary details

$12

$23

$40

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

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional 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 the difference between Professional Air Traffic Controller vs Air Traffic Control Specialist?

AspectProfessional Air Traffic ControllerAir Traffic Control Specialist
CredentialsFAA certification, training, and licensingFAA certification, training, and licensing
Work EnvironmentControl towers, approach controls, en route centersControl towers, approach controls, en route centers
Employer & IndustryFederal Aviation Administration, airports, airlinesFederal Aviation Administration, airports, airlines

Both roles require FAA certification and involve managing aircraft movements in various airspace sectors. While the terms are often used interchangeably, 'Professional Air Traffic Controller' emphasizes the certified, licensed role, whereas 'Air Traffic Control Specialist' may refer to the same position or a broader category within the industry. Essentially, they share similar credentials, work environments, and industry usage, with the main difference being terminology preference.

Can a 40 year old become a professional air traffic controller?

Yes, a 40-year-old can become a professional air traffic controller, provided they meet the job's requirements, including passing medical and background checks, and completing the necessary training and certifications. Age is generally not a barrier as long as the candidate can handle the physical and mental demands of the role. Many air traffic controllers start their careers later in life and succeed in the profession.

Is it difficult to get hired as a professional air traffic controller?

Becoming a professional air traffic controller is competitive due to strict qualification requirements, including passing aptitude tests, medical exams, and background checks. Candidates often undergo extensive training and must demonstrate strong decision-making and communication skills, making the hiring process challenging but structured for qualified applicants.

What disqualifies you from being a professional air traffic controller?

Disqualifications for becoming a professional air traffic controller include failing a medical exam, particularly with vision or hearing impairments, having a criminal record, or not meeting age requirements typically around 30 years old. Candidates must also pass background checks, drug tests, and demonstrate strong communication and decision-making skills, as well as complete specialized training and obtain necessary certifications.

What cities are hiring for Professional Air Traffic Controller jobs?

Cities with the most Professional 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 Professional Air Traffic Controller jobs?

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

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

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

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Overland Park, KS • On-site

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

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide air traffic control services in various facilities and locations, including air traffic control towers, radar facilities, and air operations ashore and afloat.

  • Operate radio communication systems, light signals, and tactical equipment to manage aircraft movements and communicate critical information to pilots.

  • Perform aircraft tactical duties, including handling launch and recovery operations, interpreting radar data, and operating aircraft systems.


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.


What United States Navy employees say

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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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