Advance Your Aviation Career: Staff Support Specialist with the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently seeking a highly skilled individual to fill a temporary Staff Support Specialist (MSS-1) position at the Cleveland (CLE) Air Traffic Control Tower. This role is a vital component of the National Airspace System, providing the tactical and administrative support necessary to keep our skies safe. If you have deep experience in air traffic control operations and are ready to transition into a support role that shapes agency-wide programs, this could be the next milestone in your career.
Job Responsibilities
As a Staff Support Specialist, you will act as a key contributor to your facility's operational goals. Responsibilities include:
- Maintaining and improving operational resources and materials.
- Communicating facility goals across various lines of business and industry partners.
- Conducting investigations, evaluations, and briefings for facility personnel.
- Developing new strategies and studies to improve customer service and operational support.
- Collaborating with other specialists to share best practices.
Requirements
Candidates must meet specific criteria to be considered for this position:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience (Type A) | Held FAA 2152 FG-14/FV-J+ level role for 52 weeks |
| Experience (Type B) | Facility rated/area certified for 52 weeks |
| Experience (Type C) | Held an MSS position for 52 weeks |
| Documentation | Signed FAA Form 3330-43-1 |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $114,469 to $154,533 per year. As a federal employee, you will be part of a robust organization that supports its staff through comprehensive benefits and professional development opportunities.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, keep your resume under two pages. Ensure every entry includes the job title, series, grade, and hours worked. Do not forget to sign your required FAA forms; unsigned forms are a common reason for disqualification.
This role offers an incredible opportunity for qualified professionals to contribute to the future of air travel. Apply through the FAA portal by the closing date to join the team in Cleveland.
Why This Temporary Air Traffic Control Specialist (Staff Support Specialist - Mss-1) Job Matters
Take your air traffic control career to the next level by shaping the future of the National Airspace System at the FAA.
Temporary Air Traffic Control Specialist (Staff Support Specialist - Mss-1) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking a motivated Air Traffic Control Specialist to join the Cleveland (CLE) ATCT team as a Staff Support Specialist (MSS-1). This temporary role, expected to last two years with the potential for extension or permanent transition, offers a unique opportunity to contribute to tactical and strategic program areas, including training, quality assurance, airspace procedures, and safety management. If you are an experienced aviation professional looking to leverage your expertise in a dynamic, mission-critical environment, this role provides the platform to influence facility goals and operational excellence.
Requirements for Temporary Air Traffic Control Specialist (Staff Support Specialist - Mss-1)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must have held an FAA 2152 FG-14/FV-J or higher regional or headquarters position for at least 52 weeks.
- Alternatively, must have been facility rated or area certified for at least 52 weeks in an ATS facility.
- Alternatively, must have held an MSS position for at least 52 weeks in an ATS facility.
- Must submit a signed FAA Form 3330-43-1 by the closing date.
- Current FAA employees must provide a copy of their SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) containing specific blocks (15, 17, 18, 19, 22, 24).
- Must pass pre-employment requirements including potential drug screening and background investigations.
Preferred Qualifications for Temporary Air Traffic Control Specialist (Staff Support Specialist - Mss-1)
- Experience with hardware and software systems relevant to air traffic management.
- Demonstrated ability to develop, evaluate, and implement new methods or studies for facility operations.
- Proven track record of effective communication across inter-facility and industry lines of business.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- βCareer development and professional growth within the FAA.
- βOpportunity to influence high-level agency programs and procedures.
- βAccess to a diverse and inclusive work environment across 120+ occupations.
π‘ How to Apply Temporary Air Traffic Control Specialist (Staff Support Specialist - Mss-1) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Temporary Air Traffic Control Specialist (Staff Support Specialist - Mss-1) Job
- Verify your eligibility against the specialized experience requirements.
- Complete the online application via the FAA portal.
- Prepare and sign FAA Form 3330-43-1.
- Gather your SF-50 if currently employed by the FAA.
- Submit your resume, limited to two pages, ensuring all work history includes required details (series, grade, hours per week, dates).
- Ensure all documents are submitted by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
π‘ General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the limit is strictly two pages.
- Double-check that your FAA Form 3330-43-1 is signed before uploading.
- When detailing experience, explicitly link your background to the specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement.
- Resubmit your application if you make any modifications; otherwise, the original version will be the only one reviewed.
- Clearly label your SF-50 with the vacancy number if faxing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
This is a temporary position for up to two years. It may be extended, terminated, or converted to a permanent appointment without further competition.
Can I submit a hard-copy application?
No, the FAA only accepts applications submitted online through the official portal.
What happens if I forget to sign my form?
Failure to provide a signed FAA Form 3330-43-1 will result in your application being disqualified.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is responsible for the safety and efficiency of the most complex aerospace system in the world. With a workforce exceeding 44,000, the agency is at the forefront of aviation technology, including autonomous vehicles, electric aircraft, and space vehicle integration. Joining the FAA means becoming part of a diverse community dedicated to innovation and public service.
