Become an Air Traffic Control Specialist with the Hawaii Air National Guard

Are you looking to take your air traffic control career to the next level in a tropical, mission-driven environment? The Hawaii Air National Guard is currently hiring an Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) at the 297th Combat Airfield Operations Squadron, located at Kalaeloa Airport, Hawaii. This is an accelerated-hire opportunity for those ready to ensure the safety and efficiency of military and civilian aircraft.

Job Responsibilities

As a Terminal ATC Specialist, you will be the eyes and ears of the flight deck. Your primary duties include:

Providing tower, radar, and non-radar ATC services.
Managing flight paths for aircraft operating under IFR, SVFR, or VFR.
Acting as a watch supervisor and senior controller.
Conducting training for Air National Guard personnel.
Performing routine maintenance on critical communication hardware.

Requirements

This position requires high levels of precision. Candidates must meet strict physical and medical standards including:

Vision: 20/20 vision in each eye and normal color/peripheral vision.
Health: No history of heart disease, diabetes, or neurological disorders.
Speech: Ability to communicate clearly with no enunciation issues.
Physical: Ability to climb stairs and handle a sedentary but high-pressure workload.

Comparison: General vs. Specialized Requirements

Requirement Type	Focus Area	Essential Trait
Physical	Sensory Health	Vision & Hearing Accuracy
Technical	ATC Operations	Radar/Tower Proficiency
Soft Skills	Behavioral	Decisiveness Under Pressure

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $93,913 to $122,094 per year, commensurate with qualifications and the specific requirements of the GS pay scale.

Benefits

Employees of the National Guard receive federal-grade benefits, including health insurance programs, retirement options, and the unique opportunity to work in a high-readiness military environment. Travel and relocation expenses may be considered in the best interest of the Hawaii Air National Guard.

Application Tips

Narrative Matters: Don't just list jobs; explain your impact in your resume.
Certification: Ensure your active ATC certifications are prominently displayed.
Medical: Review the detailed medical guidelines in the official posting to ensure you meet all requirements before applying.

Serving as an Air Traffic Control Specialist in Hawaii is a unique professional endeavor. With a critical mission, excellent salary, and the opportunity to live and work in Hawaii, this is a top-tier choice for aviation professionals. Apply by August 10, 2026, to be considered.

Why This Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Accelerated Hire) Title 5 Job Matters

Take your career to new heights in the Aloha State! Join the Hawaii Air National Guard as an Air Traffic Control Specialist and play a vital role in maintaining sky safety at Kalaeloa Airport.

Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Accelerated Hire) Title 5 Job Overview

The Hawaii Air National Guard is seeking a dedicated Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) for a Title 5 Excepted Service position at the 297th Combat Airfield Operations Squadron in Barbers Point, Hawaii. This role is essential to managing the safe, orderly flow of military and civilian air traffic. Selected individuals will oversee tower and radar operations, coordinate flight paths, and maintain high standards of safety in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.

Requirements for Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Accelerated Hire) Title 5

U.S. Citizenship
Must pass a comprehensive medical and physical examination, including vision and hearing standards
Must possess strong communication skills with clear, understandable speech
Ability to remain alert and make decisive actions under high-pressure situations
Background check and security clearance suitability requirements
Must be able to climb stairs up to 100 feet

Preferred Qualifications for Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Accelerated Hire) Title 5

Recent work experience in a live air traffic facility within the last 52 weeks
Active CTO (Control Tower Operator) or AOV certificate
Previous experience in Air Traffic Control Training and Standardization

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Federal Health and Life Insurance options
✓Retirement planning opportunities
✓Potential for PCS expense reimbursement for qualified candidates
✓Opportunity to serve in a unique, mission-critical military support role

💡 How to Apply Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Accelerated Hire) Title 5 Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) (Accelerated Hire) Title 5 Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.gov
Prepare a detailed resume highlighting specialized ATC experience
Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire via the provided application link
Attach supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable
Submit your complete application package before the closing date of August 10, 2026

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume provides a clear narrative of your ATC experience and how it qualifies you for the grade level.
Double-check that all medical and physical documentation requirements are met prior to submission.
Review your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
If claiming Veteran's or Spouse preference, ensure all specific documentation is attached correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Title 5 Excepted Service position?

It is a federal appointment within the National Guard that does not require the same competitive procedures as general federal hiring, allowing for an accelerated selection process.

Is a drug test required for this position?

Yes, as this is a safety-sensitive position involving the control of air traffic, a drug test is mandatory.

What happens after the application deadline?

Human Resources will evaluate your qualifications. If found minimally qualified, your resume and questionnaire responses are compared to determine your ranking for referral to the selecting official.

Do I need a secret clearance?

Yes, the position requires a Secret security clearance.

How often must I requalify medically?

ATC specialists must undergo an annual medical examination to ensure continued fitness for duty.

Job from Air National Guard Units

The National Guard is the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces. By joining the Hawaii Air National Guard, you are becoming part of a community dedicated to both national defense and state emergencies. This position offers a unique chance to work within a Title 5 Excepted Service role, contributing to a proud tradition of service.