Air Traffic Control Specialist: Advancing Aviation Safety with the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual for the position of Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) in Washington, D.C. This role is critical to the Safety Service Unit within the Policy and Performance Directorate (AJI-3000), where professionals work to ensure the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS).
Job Responsibilities
As an ATCS, you will:
- Analyze and evaluate air traffic safety risks to maintain an acceptable safety profile.
- Lead complex projects and SRM panels to evaluate proposed changes to NAS operations.
- Apply deep knowledge of the Safety Management System (SMS) to develop safety strategies.
- Coordinate with senior leadership and industry stakeholders to ensure organizational objectives are met.
- Review and recommend policies that enhance aviation safety.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the FV-J or GS-14 level.
- Possess strong knowledge of air traffic control laws and procedures.
- Undergo a background investigation for a Secret clearance.
- Comply with mandatory drug testing requirements.
Comparison Table: Role Requirements vs. Expectations
| Requirement Area | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year of Specialized at GS-14 equivalent |
| Citizenship | Mandatory U.S. Citizenship |
| Security | Secret Clearance / ANACI |
| Location | Washington, DC |
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $150,392 to $228,000 per year, commensurate with experience and organizational standards. Employees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including federal health insurance, retirement plans, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Keep your resume focused and limited to two pages.
- Ensure your work history clearly demonstrates the specialized experience requested.
- Always include job titles, series, grades, and specific dates in your employment history.
This role offers a unique opportunity to influence national aviation safety policy. If you possess the required technical expertise and a passion for aviation risk management, we encourage you to apply by the closing date of July 15, 2026.
Why This Air Traffic Control Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of aviation safety at the FAA. Join our elite team as an Air Traffic Control Specialist, where your expertise in risk mitigation directly protects the National Airspace System.
Air Traffic Control Specialist Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a highly skilled Air Traffic Control Specialist to join the Safety Service Unit within the Policy and Performance Directorate. In this pivotal role, you will analyze complex safety metrics, identify hazards, and implement strategies to mitigate risks across the National Airspace System. You will act as a senior project manager, collaborating with industry stakeholders and senior leadership to ensure the highest standards of safety as the agency integrates new technologies and operational changes.
Requirements for Air Traffic Control Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Minimum of one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the FV-J or GS-14 grade level.
- Proven experience in analyzing air traffic safety risks and identifying mitigation strategies.
- Comprehensive knowledge of air traffic control laws, regulations, and operational procedures.
- Successful completion of a background investigation for a Secret security clearance.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening and participate in random testing programs.
Preferred Qualifications for Air Traffic Control Specialist
- Expertise in the Safety Management System (SMS) and Safety Risk Management (SRM) processes.
- Experience managing the peer review process for SRM documentation within high-stakes project environments.
- Familiarity with Acquisition Management System (AMS) policies and software development life cycles.
- Proven track record of facilitating SRM panels and technical exchange meetings with internal and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to develop innovative policy and procedure improvements independently.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
- ✓Life insurance coverage.
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
- ✓Flexible work options, including potential telework.
💡 How to Apply Air Traffic Control Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Air Traffic Control Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a two-page maximum resume detailing your relevant experience, including job series, grade, and hours worked per week.
- Gather your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action), ensuring blocks 15, 17, 18, 19, 22, and 24 are visible if you are an FAA employee.
- Create a USAJOBS account and complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload your resume and required supporting documents before the closing date of July 15, 2026.
- Submit your application through the official FAA portal; ensure you resubmit if you make any post-submission changes.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must clearly link your experience to the specialized requirements listed in the announcement.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; explicitly state your roles and specific contributions.
- Ensure your SF-50 is accurate and up-to-date; missing documentation will result in an ineligible status.
- Address all KSA-related requirements within your work history rather than as separate narratives.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for the required experience?
No, education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience required for this position.
Are there limitations on outside employment?
Yes, FAA policy limits certain outside employment and financial investments in aviation-related companies.
What is the security requirement for this job?
This position is designated as Level 2 (Non-Critical Sensitive) and requires a Secret security clearance.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA, a division of the Department of Transportation, manages the safest and most complex aerospace system in the world. With over 44,000 employees nationwide, the agency is at the forefront of aviation innovation, including the development of autonomous vehicles, electric aircraft, and space transportation. Joining the FAA means contributing to a mission that connects the world through safe and efficient transit.