Advance Your Career: Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist at Eglin AFB

The United States Air Force is a global leader in aviation and defense, and its success relies on the precision of those who manage the skies. We are currently looking for a highly skilled Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist to join the 96th Operations Support Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base. This is a unique opportunity to lead a dedicated team in one of the most dynamic air traffic environments in the nation.

Job Responsibilities

As a first-level supervisor, your responsibilities include:

Operations Management: Directing and organizing civilian ATC specialists to ensure compliance with legal and safety requirements.
Personnel Leadership: Handling human resources responsibilities, including training, performance evaluation, and team development.
Operational Oversight: Managing radar and tower procedures, as well as providing emergency assistance when required.
Stakeholder Representation: Acting as a liaison between the ERCF and other organizational units at Eglin AFB.

Requirements

This position requires a deep understanding of ATC regulations and a history of professional performance. Below is a breakdown of the requirements versus preferred traits:

Feature	Requirement	Preferred
Education	Bachelors Degree (Aerospace/Military)	Masters Degree
Experience	1 Year at GS-12 Level	10+ Years ATC Experience
Certification	Valid ATC Specialist Certificate	Previous ERCF Experience
Age Limit	Under 36 (for entry)	N/A

Salary and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $127,295 to $165,486 per year. Additionally, the position may qualify for a 5% premium pay under 5 USC 5546a. Federal benefits include extensive health coverage, a competitive retirement package (CSRS/FERS), and specialized retirement provisions designated for Air Traffic Controllers.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Clarity: Clearly state your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for every role listed.
Documentation: If you are a current federal employee, ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your one-year time-in-grade eligibility.

Serving as a Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist at Eglin AFB is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to our national defense. If you have the leadership experience, technical expertise, and dedication to excellence required for this role, we encourage you to apply by September 18, 2026.

Why This Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)-Direct Hire Authority Job Matters

Take command of the skies! Join the Air Force Materiel Command as a Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist and lead operations at Eglin AFB.

Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)-Direct Hire Authority Job Overview

The Department of the Air Force is seeking an experienced, decisive professional to serve as a Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist at Eglin Air Force Base. In this pivotal role, you will oversee, plan, and direct the activities of civilian air traffic controllers at the Eglin Radar Control Facility (ERCF), ensuring all operations meet stringent safety and regulatory standards. You will manage personnel, coordinate critical air traffic movements, and handle complex operational environments.

Requirements for Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)-Direct Hire Authority

U.S. Citizenship.
Must be 36 years of age or younger for initial entry into this ATC position (age waivers or re-entry exceptions may apply).
Must be able to pass pre-employment medical and physical evaluations.
Possess a valid Air Traffic Control Specialist Certificate and/or Control Tower Operator Certificate.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level (or equivalent).
Time-in-grade requirements for current or former Federal employees.
Bachelors degree in Aerospace or a related Military Function.
Ability to maintain focus and make rapid, accurate decisions in high-stress environments.
Must be able to obtain and maintain necessary security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)-Direct Hire Authority

Masters degree in a relevant field.
Over 10 years of total Air Traffic Control radar experience.
Active ATC experience within the last 3 years.
Previous operational experience at the Eglin Radar Control Facility (ERCF) within the last 10 years.
Extensive leadership or supervisory experience in an ATC environment.
Experience managing operations in complex, high-density, or special-use airspace.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary with potential for 5% premium pay.
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans (CSRS/FERS).
✓Special retirement provisions for Air Traffic Controllers (under 5 USC 3382).
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of the Air Force.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)-Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)-Direct Hire Authority Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, including specific hours worked per week and dates of employment.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including transcripts and (for current federal employees) your most recent SF-50.
Submit your complete application package before the closing date of September 18, 2026.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and strictly under the two-page limit.
Ensure your resume includes your pay plan, series, and grade if you are a current or former federal employee.
Clearly articulate your specialized experience in the ATC field, specifically demonstrating your leadership capabilities.
Double-check that all uploaded documents, especially transcripts and SF-50s, are legible and include your full name.
Verify your submission status in the USAJOBS portal after applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for this position?

The maximum age for original entry into an identified ATC position is 36 years. Applicants must be appointed prior to the last day of the month in which they turn 36, though specific waivers may apply.

Is a degree required?

Yes, a Bachelors degree in Aerospace or a Military Function is a required qualification for this role.

Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to the public.

What is the mandatory separation age for this role?

Air Traffic Controllers have a mandatory separation age of 56.

Can I apply without a degree?

A Bachelors degree is required for this specific position.

Job from Air Force Materiel Command

The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) delivers war-winning expeditionary capabilities to the warfighter. Working for the Department of the Air Force means joining a community committed to integrity, service, and excellence. As a supervisor at the Eglin Radar Control Facility (ERCF), you will play a key role in ensuring our pilots can fly, fight, and win through effective air traffic management.