Become an Air Traffic Control Specialist with the South Carolina Air National Guard
The South Carolina Air National Guard is currently seeking a highly qualified Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) to join the 245th Combat Air Operations Squadron in Eastover, South Carolina. This role is essential for ensuring the safe and orderly flow of military and civilian air traffic. If you possess the specialized skills to manage terminal operations and thrive under the pressure of a high-tempo environment, this position offers a rewarding opportunity to serve both your state and your nation.
Job Responsibilities
As an Air Traffic Control Specialist, you will be responsible for a wide range of critical tasks, including:
- Providing tower, radar, and non-radar ATC services.
- Managing and directing controller actions as a senior supervisor.
- Issuing instructions to ensure compliance with Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) and Visual Flight Rules (VFR).
- Maintaining facility logs, weather records, and air traffic maps.
- Assisting in the coordination of runway utilization and ground activities.
- Serving as a team leader for tactical terminal control systems.
Requirements
This position requires a high level of technical proficiency and physical readiness. Key requirements include:
- Experience: 24 months of specialized experience in terminal operations.
- Certification: Must hold a valid FAA Form 7220-1 or CTO certification.
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is mandatory; technical training in ATC is essential.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Physical/Medical: Must pass medical physicals and drug screenings and demonstrate the ability to perform heavy lifting.
Salary Overview
This position is classified under a competitive federal pay scale, providing financial stability and growth potential.
| Pay Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $74,678 - $97,087 |
| Pay Interval | Per Year |
| Grade | GS-11 |
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support their health and long-term security. These benefits include federal retirement programs (CSRS/FERS), health and dental insurance, paid leave, and job security associated with the excepted service.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume is detailed. It must include:
- Employer names and complete contact info.
- Specific job titles and series/grade.
- Hours worked per week.
- Detailed duty descriptions (not just a list of awards).
- Dates (month and year) for every position listed.
This Air Traffic Control Specialist role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety of our skies and the defense of our nation. With competitive pay and the opportunity to work in a challenging, dynamic environment, this is an excellent career move for experienced ATC professionals. Apply today through the USAJOBS portal.
Why This T5 Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job Matters
Take command of the skies and support our national defense as an Air Traffic Control Specialist with the South Carolina Air National Guard.
T5 Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job Overview
The South Carolina Air National Guard is seeking a highly skilled Air Traffic Control Specialist to join the 245th Combat Air Operations Squadron in Eastover, South Carolina. This Title 5 Excepted Service role is pivotal in maintaining the safety, efficiency, and operational integrity of military and civilian aircraft. You will serve as a senior controller and supervisor, managing complex air traffic in both tower and radar environments to ensure safe, orderly, and expeditious flight operations.
Requirements for T5 Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)
- Must be a graduate of a formal DoD/DOT basic air traffic control course.
- Minimum 24 months of specialized experience in terminal operations.
- Possess a valid Air Traffic Control Specialist Certificate (FAA Form 7220-1) or Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Ability to clearly enunciate English for effective radio communication.
- Must pass a medical physical and drug screening.
- Must be able to perform heavy lifting and meet physical demand ratings.
Preferred Qualifications for T5 Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal)
- Experience in tactical terminal control systems (TTCS).
- Expertise in operating deployed teams for remote airfield support (FARPs, LZs, HLZs).
- Experience in the preparation of Terminal Instrument Procedures (TERPS).
- Background in military or civilian supervisory ATC roles.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including CSRS and FERS participation.
- ✓Comprehensive federal medical and dental insurance options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Career stability within the Department of the Air Force.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
💡 How to Apply T5 Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for T5 Air Traffic Control Specialist (Terminal) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting specific ATC experience, dates, and hours worked.
- Complete the mandatory online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including your most recent SF-50 and ATC certification.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically lists months and years of employment to verify 24 months of specialized experience.
- Do not just list accomplishments; provide detailed descriptions of duties and equipment used.
- Double-check your application for clarity, as HR will use your resume to validate your self-rating on the questionnaire.
- Allow several hours for document virus scanning prior to the submission deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position open to the general public?
No, this is an excepted service position with specific areas of consideration, primarily focusing on current federal employees.
What is the security clearance level required?
This position requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Can education substitute for experience?
No. There are no substitutions for the required 24 months of specialized air traffic control experience.
What is the closing date for this position?
Applications must be received by October 9, 2026.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation benefits are not authorized for this position.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The Air National Guard is a vital component of the United States Armed Forces. Tasked with both federal missions and state-level support during emergencies, our personnel are the backbone of our readiness. By joining the Air National Guard, you are becoming part of a proud tradition of service, working alongside highly trained professionals in a collaborative, mission-focused environment.