Lead Aviation Safety as an Operations Manager with the FAA in Farmington, MN

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is at the forefront of ensuring the safest and most efficient aerospace system globally. We are currently seeking a highly skilled and experienced individual to fill the crucial role of Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist, Operations Manager, in Farmington, Minnesota. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team, shape operational strategies, and directly contribute to the advancement of aviation. If you are a proven leader with a passion for aviation safety and possess the required expertise, we encourage you to explore this exciting federal employment opportunity.

About the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The FAA, an agency within the Department of Transportation, is responsible for regulating all aspects of civil aviation in the United States. Our mission is to provide the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world. With a diverse workforce of over 44,000 professionals nationwide, the FAA offers a wide array of career paths, including air traffic control specialists, aviation safety inspectors, engineers, scientists, and technicians. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and investing in new technologies that push the boundaries of aerospace innovation, from autonomous vehicles to sustainable aviation.

Your Role as Operations Manager

As an Operations Manager, you will serve as a key leader within an air traffic control facility, playing a pivotal role in the daily operations and strategic direction. Your primary responsibilities will include:

• Directing Technical Workforce: Leading a team of highly skilled air traffic control professionals, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of air traffic services.
• Operational Oversight: Planning and directing the day-to-day operations of the facility, impacting the safe, orderly, and expeditious movement of aircraft.
• Strategic Planning: Overseeing critical support activities such as training programs, quality assurance, traffic management, airspace procedures, and facility-wide projects.
• Team Development: Providing training, coaching, and guidance to subordinates, fostering team building, and promoting a positive work environment.
• Resource Management: Integrating support resources with operational needs to maintain seamless air traffic control services, potentially working outside of standard administrative hours.
• Performance Improvement: Continuously reviewing work processes using organizational performance measures to ensure alignment with the agency's mission, customer needs, and efficient service delivery.
• Management Duties: Assigning and reviewing work, setting priorities, approving leave, evaluating performance, and addressing employee relations issues.
• Collaboration: Participating in the labor-management partnership process and working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders, including union representatives, management peers, and aviation industry representatives.
• EEO Commitment: Championing diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) policies in all areas of responsibility.

Requirements for Success

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet specific qualification criteria. These are designed to ensure that applicants possess the necessary experience and expertise to excel in this leadership role:

Specialized Experience Defined:

• Option 1: Must have held an FAA 2152 FV-J/FG-14 or above regional or headquarters position for at least one year (52 weeks).
• Option 2: Must have been facility rated or area certified for at least one year (52 weeks) in an Air Traffic Services (ATS) facility.
• Option 3: Must have held a Management Support Staff (MSS) position for at least one year (52 weeks) in an ATS facility.

Additional Requirement for MSS Positions:

• If qualifying under Option 3 (MSS), applicants must have held an MSS2, MSS3, MSS4, or FG-2152-14/FV-2152-J (not a Certified Professional Controller) or above regional or headquarters position for at least one year (52 weeks).

General Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Non-citizens are not eligible for this position.
• Documentation: Completion and submission of FAA Form 3330-43, "Rating of Air Traffic Experience," is mandatory. This form must detail the dates of experience, position title, series, and grade/level for all relevant positions held. It can be submitted by uploading it as part of your application or by faxing it to (781) 238-7283 by the closing date.
• For FAA Employees: A copy of your SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action), including specific blocks of information, is required to verify your employment details. This can also be faxed or uploaded.

Important Note: All qualifications must be fully met by the closing date of this announcement. Ensure your application package clearly substantiates your eligibility.

Salary and Compensation

This Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $185,094 to $228,000. The specific salary within this range will be determined based on the selectee's qualifications and experience. Additional information regarding locality pay and Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) may be applicable.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

The FAA values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. While specific details are best reviewed on the official FAA benefits page, standard federal benefits often include:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a retirement savings and investment plan similar to a 401(k).
• Paid annual and sick leave.
• Life insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
• Professional development and training opportunities.

For more detailed information, please visit FAA Careers Benefits.

Application Process and Tips

Applying for this position requires careful attention to detail to ensure your application is complete and competitive. Follow these steps and tips for a successful submission:

Application Steps:

1. Apply Online: Submit your application through the USAJOBS website. Ensure it is completed by the closing date: July 16, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
2. Craft Your Resume: Create a clear, specific, and detailed resume that directly addresses all required qualifications and specialized experience. Remember, resumes are limited to two pages. Include your job title (with series and grade if federal), employer name, start/end dates, and weekly hours worked for each position.
3. Include Education/Certifications: If required, list the school/institution name, completion date, degree type, and GPA for any relevant education, certifications, or licenses.
4. Submit Required Forms: Upload FAA Form 3330-43, "Rating of Air Traffic Experience," or fax it to (781) 238-7283 by the deadline. If you are an FAA employee, you must also upload or fax your SF-50.
5. Review and Submit: Before final submission, carefully review all information for accuracy. If you make any changes to your application, remember to resubmit it.

Application Tips:

• Substantiate Your Experience: Provide specific examples in your resume and work history that clearly demonstrate your qualifications and align with the job announcement's requirements. Your answers in the online assessment must be supported by your submitted documentation.
• Prioritize Relevance: Focus on experience and skills directly relevant to the Operations Manager role. Given the two-page resume limit, conciseness and impact are key.
• Meet Deadlines: Adhere strictly to all submission deadlines for your application and supporting documents to avoid disqualification.
• Use Upload/Fax Wisely: If faxing, ensure the vacancy announcement number is clearly marked. Uploading documents directly through USAJOBS is often the most efficient method.

What to Expect Next

After submitting your complete application, the Human Resources Office will evaluate your qualifications. Eligible and highly qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration. Should you be selected for an interview, you will be contacted directly. You can track your application status via your USAJOBS account. The FAA is committed to a fair and equitable hiring process for all.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What is the salary range for this position? A: The annual salary range is $185,094 to $228,000.

• Q: Is this a permanent or temporary position? A: This position is temporary, not to exceed 2 years, but may be extended, terminated early, or made permanent.

• Q: What specific documents must I submit with my application? A: You must submit the first page of FAA Form 3330-43, Rating of Air Traffic Experience. If you are an FAA employee, you also need to provide a copy of your SF-50.

• Q: Are there any specific citizenship requirements for this role? A: Yes, applicants must be U.S. citizens. Non-citizens are not eligible.

• Q: How will my application be evaluated? A: Your qualifications will be assessed based on the extent and quality of your experience, education, and training. All information provided must be supported by your application materials.

This Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist, Operations Manager position represents a significant opportunity to lead and contribute to the critical mission of the Federal Aviation Administration. If you possess the leadership acumen, operational experience, and commitment to aviation safety, we invite you to apply and help shape the future of air travel. Join the FAA and be part of an organization dedicated to excellence and innovation in aviation.