Air Traffic Controller
1. OVERVIEW
Air traffic controllers are responsible for directing and coordinating the movement of aircraft to ensure safe distances between them. They play a critical role in keeping airspace organized, efficient, and safe by issuing instructions to pilots during takeoff, landing, and en route navigation. The job requires rapid decision-making, excellent communication skills, and strong situational awareness. Most controllers work in airport control towers, terminal radar approach control (TRACON) centers, or en route centers.
2024 Median Pay: $144,580/year ($69.51/hour)
Job Growth (2023–2033): +3% (as fast as average)
Typical Education: Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree through FAA AT-CTI program
2. ROLE BREAKDOWN BY LEVEL
ENTRY LEVEL
Job Titles: Developmental Controller, Trainee Air Traffic Control Specialist
Education: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree from FAA-approved AT-CTI program OR military ATC experience
Experience: 0–2 years
Certifications (Required):
Pass FAA ATSA Test (Skills Assessment Battery)
U.S. Citizenship, Medical & Background Clearance
FAA Academy Training (Oklahoma City)
Core Duties:
Provide pilots with basic flight data and airport information
Learn radar systems, procedures, and radio communication
Monitor aircraft under supervision and respond to simulated emergencies
Prepare for facility certification exams
Salary Range: $50,000–$80,000 (increases after certification)
MID LEVEL
Job Titles: Certified Professional Controller (CPC), Tower Controller, TRACON Controller
Education: FAA Academy + On-the-Job Training Completed
Experience: 3–7 years
Certifications (Required):
Certified as a CPC by FAA
Annual Physical & Biannual Proficiency Tests
Core Duties:
Direct live air traffic in tower or radar approach environments
Coordinate with adjacent facilities for handoffs
Monitor aircraft separation, weather updates, and emergency response
Train junior or developmental controllers
Salary Range: $80,000–$140,000+
SENIOR LEVEL
Job Titles: En Route Controller, ATC Supervisor, Traffic Management Coordinator, Operations Manager
Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred + 7–10+ years of FAA experience
Certifications (Required):
FAA ATC Tower Operator Certificate (as required)
Core Duties:
Manage traffic flow across large airspace sectors
Supervise ATC team operations, schedules, and training
Lead system-wide flow management during weather, delays, or high traffic
Serve in strategic safety, technology implementation, and performance roles
Salary Range: $140,000–$210,000+
3. HOW TO BECOME ONE
Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree (AT-CTI preferred)
Training: FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, followed by over a year of on-the-job training
Age: Must apply before turning 31 (military exception applies)
Other Requirements: Pass ATSA exam, background check, medical clearance, drug screening
Advancement: From developmental to certified controller, supervisor, manager, or TRACON/En Route
4. SKILLS & TOOLS
Core Skills:
Verbal Communication
Decision-Making
Attention to Detail
Problem Solving
Multi-tasking
Time Management
Tools:
Radar Display Terminals
Voice Communication Systems (VCS)
Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B)
Tower Light Guns & Signal Lamps
FAA En Route Automation Modernization (ERAM)
Charting & Mapping Software
5. WORK ENVIRONMENT
Locations: Airport Control Towers, Terminal Radar Approach Control Centers (TRACON), En Route Centers
Schedules: Full-time, rotating shifts, holidays and weekends required
Environment: High-stress, team-based, focus-intensive, enclosed or semi-dark facilities
FAA Retirement Age: Mandatory at 56
6. JOB OUTLOOK
Annual Openings: ~2,200
Growth Drivers: Aging workforce retirements, air travel demand, NextGen automation
Limitations: Efficiency gains from NextGen system may reduce headcount growth
7. RELATED OCCUPATIONS
Role: Airline & Commercial Pilots | Salary: $198,100 | Education Level: Bachelor's + Licensure
Role: Public Safety Dispatchers | Salary: $50,730 | Education Level: High school diploma
Role: Transportation Inspectors | Salary: $89,090 | Education Level: High school + experience
Role: Flight Attendants | Salary: $66,690 | Education Level: High school + training
8. RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ADVANCEMENT
FAA & Official Info:
FAA Careers Portal
FAA Air Traffic Control Academy
Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative
Organizations & Communities:
Books:
"Say Again, Please: Guide to Radio Communications" by Bob Gardner
"Air Traffic Control Career Prep" by Patrick Mattson
"Controlling Air Traffic: A Career Guide" by Donald P. Byrne
Videos & Courses:
YouTube: "FAA Air Traffic Control Academy Day in the Life"
FAA Academy Overview: YouTube Video
Pilot Institute ATC Playlist
Online Forums:
Reddit: r/ATC
Jetcareers.com Forums
Indeed and Glassdoor ATC Reviews
9. REGIONAL DATA & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS
CareerOneStop Salary Tool
Projections Central
