Launch Your Career as an Air Traffic Control Specialist with the FAA
Are you a seasoned air traffic professional looking to make a significant impact on national aviation safety? The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently accepting applications for experienced Air Traffic Control Specialists (ATCS). This is a unique opportunity to join an elite team responsible for the safe, orderly, and expeditious movement of aircraft across the nation's airspace.
Job Responsibilities
As an ATCS, you are the backbone of aviation safety. Depending on your placement—Terminal or En Route—your duties will include:
- Terminal Operations: Providing takeoff/landing clearances, taxi instructions, and weather advisories at airports.
- En Route (Center) Operations: Maintaining aircraft separation and providing navigation guidance between airports and across federal airways.
- Operational Coordination: Collaborating with pilots, National Weather Service experts, and other control facilities to manage flight safety.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a specific background. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet the following criteria:
- Experience: 52 consecutive weeks of full-time active separation of air traffic post-certification.
- Age: Must be 35 years of age or younger on the date of application.
- Documentation: All certifications must be submitted at the time of application.
Eligibility Comparison Table
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen Only |
| Min. ATC Experience | 52 Consecutive Weeks |
| Max. Entry Age | 35 Years |
| Certification | Required at Application |
| Drug Testing | Mandatory |
Salary and Benefits
Compensation for ATCS positions is highly competitive, reflecting the high-stakes nature of the work. Salary levels range from $47,026 to $177,543, depending on your prior experience level and the locality pay assigned to your specific facility. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and the potential for rapid salary increases as you move through training phases.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Ensure your resume clearly states the number of hours worked per week.
- Documentation is Key: Use your SF-50 to document prior federal service.
- Stay Current: If you update your profile, ensure you hit 'Submit' to refresh your application package.
The FAA offers a career path unlike any other. By joining our team, you play a direct role in maintaining the safety of the American skies. If you meet the experience requirements, we encourage you to submit your application today and take the next step in your aviation career.
Why This Public Notice For Air Traffic Control Specialist (Direct Hire) Job Matters
Take your aviation expertise to new heights with the Federal Aviation Administration. Join our mission as an experienced Air Traffic Control Specialist and secure the nation's skies.
Public Notice For Air Traffic Control Specialist (Direct Hire) Job Overview
The FAA is seeking skilled Air Traffic Control Specialists to join our dynamic workforce. This is a direct-hire public notice for professionals who have mastered the art of managing complex airspace. As a key member of the Air Traffic Organization, you will be responsible for the safe and efficient separation of aircraft, utilizing your specialized knowledge to maintain the integrity of our national airspace system.
Requirements for Public Notice For Air Traffic Control Specialist (Direct Hire)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess 52 consecutive weeks of air traffic control experience performing full-time active separation of air traffic.
- Experience must be acquired after certification or facility rating within 5 years of application.
- Must be age 35 or below on or before the vacancy closing date.
- Must be willing to work at any FAA facility nationwide.
- Must provide copies of all ATC certifications (front and back) at the time of application.
- Must submit an SF-50 form for prior civilian 2152 service validation.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and maintain compliance with DOT drug/alcohol testing programs.
Preferred Qualifications for Public Notice For Air Traffic Control Specialist (Direct Hire)
- Prior experience as a Certified Professional Controller (CPC).
- Active full performance level (FPL) rating.
- Military air traffic control experience within a DOD or National Guard facility.
- Experience working in a tower operating under a section 47124 contract with the FAA.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓On-the-job training and professional development opportunities.
- ✓Potential for locality-based salary adjustments.
💡 How to Apply Public Notice For Air Traffic Control Specialist (Direct Hire) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Public Notice For Air Traffic Control Specialist (Direct Hire) Job
- Prepare a resume limited to two pages.
- Gather your ATC certifications, facility ratings, and any relevant SF-50 forms.
- Create or update your profile on the official FAA jobs portal.
- Complete the online application and upload all required documents simultaneously.
- Resubmit your application if any changes are made to ensure your latest version is reviewed.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists hours worked per week for each role, as 40 hours is required for full-time credit.
- Be clear and specific; align your work history directly with the ATC duties described in the announcement.
- Do not wait until the last minute—ensure all certifications and supporting documents are readable and uploaded correctly.
- If you have prior federal service, include your most recent SF-50 to document your history in the 2152 occupational series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum age limit for this position?
Applicants must be age 35 or younger on or before the closing date of the vacancy announcement.
Can I use my military training to meet the 52-week requirement?
Military ATC experience is accepted if it involved the active separation of air traffic after receipt of a facility rating and is documented in your official records.
Is a college degree required?
No, there is no educational substitute for the required 52 weeks of specialized ATC experience.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The Air Traffic Organization (ATO) is the operational arm of the FAA. We are responsible for managing one of the largest and most complex aviation systems in the world. With over 44,000 employees, the FAA is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, integrating everything from traditional commercial travel to cutting-edge autonomous and electric aircraft technology.