Launch Your Career: Air Traffic Control Specialist at Hurlburt Field

Are you a professional with a passion for aviation safety and a cool head under pressure? The Department of the Air Force is currently recruiting for an Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) to join the elite team at Hurlburt Field, Florida. This is more than a job; it is a vital contribution to national security and the operational efficiency of the Air Force Special Operations Command.

Job Responsibilities

As an Air Traffic Control Specialist, your primary mission is to provide Visual Flight Rules (VFR) air traffic control services. Your core duties will include:

Safe Airspace Management: Controlling both military and civilian aircraft to ensure safe, orderly, and rapid flight flow.
Airport Advisories: Reporting critical weather data, equipment status, and airfield conditions.
Simulator Administration: Managing the facility's simulator programs to ensure long-term operational effectiveness.
Regulatory Compliance: Adhering strictly to federal laws, regulations, and Air Force standards regarding airspace movement.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet stringent federal criteria:

Requirement	Description
Age	Must be under 36 years for initial appointment.
Experience	One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent.
Clearance	Ability to maintain a Secret security clearance.
Medical	Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.

Salary Overview

The position is classified within the General Schedule (GS) framework, with a competitive salary range of $78,386 to $101,897 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

Federal employment offers a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:

Participation in the special retirement provisions for air traffic controllers (CSRS/FERS).
Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
Paid leave, including vacation and sick time.

Application Tips

Resume Precision: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use clear dates and hours per week.
Documentation: Ensure all required SF-50s and transcripts are attached to your application.
Honesty: Ensure your questionnaire answers match your resume facts precisely.

If you are ready to command the skies at Hurlburt Field, this position offers the perfect blend of technical challenge and service to your country. Apply today to begin your journey with the Air Force Special Operations Command.

Why This Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job Matters

Take your aviation expertise to new heights with the Air Force Special Operations Command at Hurlburt Field, where your precision ensures the safety and success of critical flight operations.

Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job Overview

The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) to join the team at Hurlburt Field, Florida. This pivotal role involves managing military and civilian aircraft in a tower environment, utilizing Visual Flight Rules (VFR) to maintain safe and efficient airfield operations. You will play a crucial part in national defense by controlling movement areas, monitoring critical weather, and managing essential navigational equipment. This position offers a unique career path with federal retirement benefits, specialized air traffic controller provisions, and the opportunity to impact high-stakes aviation missions.

Requirements for Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be under the age of 36 for initial appointment.
Completion of one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent.
Must pass initial and periodic short-notice drug testing (Testing Designated Position).
Must possess or be able to obtain required facility ratings.
Must pass pre-employment physical and medical evaluations.
Must meet federal time-in-grade requirements for merit promotion.
Ability to maintain a Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)

Demonstrated expertise in Terminal ATC procedures and tower operations.
Advanced knowledge of navigational aids, airfield lighting, and weather reporting systems.
Proven track record of remaining calm and decisive in high-stress, real-time environments.
Experience serving in a simulator administrator or instructor capacity.
Strong proficiency in clear, rapid communication under pressure.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Special retirement provisions for Air Traffic Controllers (CSRS/FERS)
✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts
✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
✓Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
✓Ongoing professional training and career development

💡 How to Apply Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review the full vacancy announcement and gather required documentation (SF-50s, transcripts, DD-214 if applicable).
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages and includes weekly hours and dates of employment for each position.
Complete the online application questionnaire through the USA Staffing portal.
Upload all supporting documents, ensuring they are legible and include your full name.
Submit your application package before the deadline of September 14, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week and exact dates (month/year) for all past employment.
If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your most recent SF-50 is included and highlights your grade, series, and pay plan.
Double-check your questionnaire responses against your resume; contradictions can lead to an 'insufficient information' rating.
Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit for this position?

The maximum age for original entry into an ATC position is 36. Applicants must be appointed before the last day of the month they turn 36.

Are there medical requirements?

Yes, applicants must pass a pre-employment medical evaluation to ensure they have the physical capacity to perform essential controller duties, including working in a tower environment.

Can I apply if I am currently in the military?

Active duty service members may apply. If you have not yet been discharged, you must submit a certification memo from your military branch in lieu of a DD-214.

Is a drug test required?

Yes, this is a Testing Designated Position, and you will be subject to both initial and periodic testing.

What is the retirement age for this position?

Air Traffic Controllers have a mandatory separation age of 56.

Job from Air Force Special Operations Command

The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) provides fully capable Special Operations Forces to defend the United States and its interests. By joining this organization, you become part of a diverse and highly motivated team of professionals dedicated to synchronizing global operations. Working with the Air Force, you will enjoy a stable federal career with excellent benefits and the chance to work alongside the best in the aviation industry.