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Tower Controller information

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$55K

$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do tower controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for tower 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 a tower controller?

Tower controllers are air traffic control professionals who manage the safe and efficient movement of aircraft on runways and taxiways at airports. They direct arriving and departing flights, communicate with pilots, and coordinate with other air traffic control facilities to ensure smooth operations. Tower controllers use radar, radios, and visual observation to maintain safe distances between aircraft and respond quickly to any emergencies or changes in weather conditions. Their role is crucial in preventing collisions and minimizing delays at busy airports.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tower controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tower Controller, you need strong situational awareness, quick decision-making abilities, and an air traffic control certification from an accredited program. Proficiency in radar and communications systems, as well as familiarity with FAA procedures, is typically required. Exceptional communication, stress management, and teamwork skills help ensure clarity and efficiency during high-pressure situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safety, minimizing delays, and ensuring the smooth flow of air traffic.

How does a tower controller typically collaborate with other air traffic control units during their shift?

Tower Controllers work closely with approach and departure control units to coordinate the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within the airport's airspace. They maintain constant communication with ground controllers, ramp personnel, and airline operations to manage arrivals, departures, and taxiing. Effective teamwork and clear communication are essential, especially during peak traffic periods or when weather conditions require rapid decision-making. This collaboration helps ensure that aircraft transition smoothly between different phases of flight and that safety protocols are strictly followed.

What is the difference between Tower Controller vs Approach Controller?

AspectTower ControllerApproach Controller
Primary RoleManages aircraft on the ground and during takeoff/landing within the airport's control towerManages arriving and departing aircraft in the terminal airspace, guiding them safely to and from the airport
Work EnvironmentControl tower at the airportEn route or terminal radar facilities
CertificationsFAA Tower Certification, Radar Certification (if applicable)FAA Approach Certification, Radar Certification
Industry UsageAirports with control towersAirports with approach control facilities

Both Tower Controllers and Approach Controllers are essential air traffic professionals working within the same industry. Tower Controllers focus on ground operations and aircraft during takeoff and landing within the airport's control tower, while Approach Controllers manage aircraft in the terminal airspace approaching or departing the airport. They often work together to ensure safe and efficient aircraft movement.

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Who are the top companies hiring for Tower Controller jobs?

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What states have the most Tower Controller jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Tower Controller jobs?

For Tower Controller jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Tower Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tower Controller job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Ramp Tower Controller

Virginia, MN • On-site

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
Aviation • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Metropolitan Washington Airports Authorityexternal

$40.55 - $58.79/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Compensation

Compensation Grade: S19-H Salary Range: $40.55-$58.79 Opening Date: September 4, 2026 Closing Date: September 19, 2026 Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

General Responsibilities

As a Ramp Tower Controller, you will control aircraft on the ramps and taxi lanes, dispatch mobile lounges to safely transport passengers, and monitor all aircraft and vehicles in the ramp area to ensure their safe, efficient, and expeditious ground movement.

  • Directs the movement of aircraft in midfield ramp area in compliance with Dulles Airport Surface Operations Letter of Agreement between Dulles FAA tower and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
  • Gives instruction to arriving aircraft for taxiing to pre-assigned gates.
  • Approves requests for push-backs of aircraft into taxi lanes in ramp area and gives taxi instructions ensuring an orderly flow of traffic in compliance with current airport configuration (runways in use) dictated by the Dulles FAA tower.
  • Dispatches mobile lounges/plane-mates to safely and efficiently transport airline passengers.
  • Assigns remote parking areas to aircraft, informs airlines, and notes information in gate book.
  • Reports observed safety hazards, adverse airfield operations, and all other problems.
  • In the event of an airfield emergency or security breach, follows guidelines and instructions and coordinates with Airport Operations Department and other airport personnel.
  • Maintains and updates all pertinent records, logs, and assignments, with required information.
  • Reports the need for maintenance, as required, for all systems.
  • Coordinates preventive and no-notice maintenance, with Equipment Maintenance, to assure a rotation of mobile lounges/plane-mates.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Four years of progressively responsible experience controlling aircraft movements on the ground or in the air at a major airport; OR Qualified as a controller for the FAA, the US Military, or a ramp control tower at a major airport; OR qualified as a pilot for a CFR Part 121 air carrier; OR has a degree from an approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI).
  • Ability to perform basic analyses of data and information.
  • Skill in coordinating and prioritizing multiple information sources, simultaneously.
  • Ability to speak and write effectively.
  • Skill in using a computer, computerized work order and time and attendance system.
  • Ability to work as a team member.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience as a Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) for the FAA or government contractor.
  • FAA Certified Air Traffic Controller.
  • Knowledge of and ability to apply ground control procedures at a large hub airport with multiple terminals.
  • Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate from the FAA or DOD.
  • Air Traffic Control Degree from an approved AT-CTI School.
Education
  • A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).
Certifications and Licenses Required
  • A state driver’s license in good standing.
Necessary Special Factors

Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quantity, quality, timeliness, customer service, teamwork, adherence to guidelines, effectiveness, and other factors. Operates vehicle landside and airside (requires AOA permit). Must be able to climb stairs (4 levels) to reach Ramp Tower cabs. Is required to work shifts, including weekends, holidays, and nights, in support of the 24/7/365 Ramp Tower operations. Is subject to hold-over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies such as snow removal.

What We Offer

A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family’s health, financial security, and professional growth.

  • medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • well‑being resources
  • health savings and flexible spending accounts
  • pension and retirement plans
  • ongoing training and development opportunities

Discover more about our benefits package here.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Have you ever wondered who runs Reagan National Airport? Or Dulles International Airport? Or the Dulles Toll Road? We do! We’re the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and we’re looking for talented, enthusiastic people to help us continue our tradition of outstanding service to travelers in the Washington Metropolitan area. We offer an array of benefits programs, including vacation, retirement, and health benefits. Whether you are traveling the world or plotting your career path, your journey begins with us. Our Core Values are: MUTUAL RESPECT INTEGRITY PRIDE COLLABORATION

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