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Tower Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Supermicro

Staff Control Systems Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Commission and configure sensors, meters, CDUs/CDMs, cooling-tower controllers, and other I/O devices on Supermicro's secured network. *Collaborate with IT to obtain and manage IP allocations, VLAN ...

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All JobsTower Controller JobsTower Controller Jobs in California

Tower Controller information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$117.9K

$173.2K

How much do tower controller jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for tower controller in California is $117,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $136,700.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Tower Controller jobs in California?

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

What job categories do people searching Tower Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Tower Controller jobs in California are:

Tower Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tower Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,932 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SPECIALIST (TERMINAL)

March Air Reserve Base, CA • On-site

Department of the Air Force
See more jobs at Department of the Air Forceexternal

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Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Job Title

Air Traffic Control Specialist

Job Description

The primary purpose of this position is to provide air traffic control (ATC) services to military and civilian aircraft operating in a terminal radar environment using instrument flight rules (IFR), visual flight rules (VFR), and special VFR (SVFR); to provide terminal non-radar approach control services in allocated airspace in the event of radar outages; and, to provide VFR and SVFR ATC services to aircraft operating in the vicinity of March Air Reserve Base (MARB) or within the Controlled Movement Area (CMA) of the airfield providing for the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.

Duties

Duties include:

  1. Performs duties as Ground Controlled Approach (GCA) Radar Controller.
  2. Performs duty as Tower Controller.
  3. Performs and serves as Controller-in-Charge (CIC) when no official supervisory personnel are available.
  4. Performs on-the-job training (OJT) for developmental controllers.
  5. Performs other duties as assigned.

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