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Tracon Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Waco ATCT / TRACON (ACT) , located in Waco, TX , ...

Worth TRACON (D10) , located in Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The CTS Instructor-I is a hands-on position ...

Conduct comprehensive fire protection and life safety surveys of critical air traffic control facilities including airport traffic control towers (ATCT), terminal radar approach control (TRACON ...

Tracon information

See Texas salary details

$20

$39

$63

How much do tracon jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for tracon in Texas is $39.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $43.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tracon?

A TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) job involves managing and directing air traffic within a designated airspace surrounding an airport, typically up to 50 miles out. TRACON controllers use radar and communication tools to ensure safe and efficient sequencing of arriving, departing, and transitioning aircraft. They coordinate with en route centers and control towers to maintain smooth traffic flow. The role requires intense focus, quick decision-making, and adherence to strict safety protocols.

What does a typical work shift look like for a tracon air traffic controller?

TRACON controllers generally work in rotating shifts to provide 24/7 coverage, which can include evenings, weekends, and holidays due to the continuous nature of air traffic operations. A typical shift involves monitoring and directing multiple aircraft simultaneously within a defined airspace, often requiring intense focus and clear communication with both pilots and adjacent control facilities. You'll frequently collaborate with tower and en-route controllers to ensure safe aircraft handoffs and efficient sequencing of arrivals and departures. The work is conducted in a highly secure, technology-driven environment where teamwork, quick decision-making, and adaptability are key. Over time, experienced TRACON controllers may have opportunities to advance into supervisory, training, or specialist roles within the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the tracon position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) air traffic controller, you need strong spatial awareness, rapid decision-making skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation safety protocols, typically requiring completion of FAA training and certification. Familiarity with radar systems, air navigation software, and specialized communication equipment is crucial. Outstanding concentration, stress management, and teamwork capabilities help you excel in high-pressure, dynamic environments. These abilities are vital to ensuring the safe and efficient coordination of incoming and outgoing aircraft within congested airspace.

Are air traffic controllers being hired?

Air traffic controller positions are actively being filled, with hiring driven by industry demand and retirements. Candidates typically need to pass rigorous training, obtain certifications, and meet specific health and vision requirements. Job openings are posted regularly by the Federal Aviation Administration and other relevant agencies.
Infographic showing various Tracon job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,652 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

ACT - Air Traffic Control Instructor-II

SAIC

Waco, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 224 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2614567

Location: Waco, TX, US

Date Posted: 2026-07-14

Category: Training

Subcategory: Training Analyst

Schedule: Casual (includes On-Call and Temporary)

Shift: Rotating

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

  • ATTN FERS RETIREES: Earnings received as an ATC Instructor, ATC Training Instructional Supervisor, or Contractor Site Supervisor working on this program are EXEMPT from the Supplemental Annuity earnings limits for FERS retirees between the ages of 56 and 62.

We are looking for an experienced, Casual, Air Traffic Control Instructor-II to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Waco ATCT / TRACON (ACT), located in Waco, TX, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The successful candidate for this position must demonstrate strong technical skills with current ATC automation, simulation systems and procedures. This position may provide mentoring for students and Remote Pilot Operators (RPO), and may participate in curriculum design and development. The selected candidate must demonstrate the knowledge and skills applicable for obtaining radar and/or non-radar simulation laboratory certifications at FAA air traffic control facilities within the U.S. National Airspace System.

The CTS Instructor is a hands-on position that requires the candidate to effectively and consistently deliver the highest quality classroom and/or simulation laboratory training to a wide variety of students including developmental air traffic controllers and Certified Professional Controllers (CPC). 

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.

To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities. 

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.

  • The CTS Instructor candidate must have a minimum of five (5) years of FAA CPC experience controlling live traffic, or recent experience as a contract Instructor at an FAA facility. Experience must have been at the same type and same [or greater] level of ATC facility as the Waco ATCT / TRACON (ACT).

Desired Skills and Experience:

  • Direct experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC) at the Waco ATCT / TRACON (ACT) is preferred but not required.

  • Operational Experience with ATC simulators including scenario design for simulation platforms (e.g. TSS, AT Coach, SGET, etc.). 

  • Demonstrated ability to interface effectively with FAA personnel at all levels to ensure the delivery of training services meet the needs of the local facility, as well as the FAA’s overall Air Traffic Control mission is highly desired.

  • Experience demonstrating excellent teaching and/or platform skills, classroom management techniques, and a student-focused drive for continuous improvement.

Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.

  • FAA Certified Professional Controller (CPC) certification required with the ability to obtain and maintain Instructor-II Simulation Laboratory and Classroom Certification.


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