Become a Leader in Aviation: Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist at the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the backbone of the world's most complex and safest aviation system. If you are an experienced air traffic control professional looking to move into management, the position of Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor) at the Tucson TRACON is an exceptional opportunity to influence the next generation of controllers and the safety of our skies.
Job Responsibilities
As an Operational Supervisor (Level 8), you are the link between upper management and the front lines of air traffic control. Your responsibilities include:
- Personnel Management: Directing the work of Developmental and Certified Professional Controllers.
- Operational Oversight: Planning and adjusting staffing levels to match traffic volume and resource availability.
- Policy Implementation: Championing EEO and diversity programs while maintaining a fair and equitable work environment.
- Administrative Leadership: Handling performance ratings, training needs, and resolving employee grievances.
Requirements
This position requires significant operational experience. Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Technical Background: You must hold or have held specific FAA certifications or supervisory roles (such as a 2152 FV-J/FG-14 position) for at least one year.
- Documentation: All applicants must submit FAA Form 3330-43 and address four specific Managerial Workforce Planning (MWP) selection dimensions.
- Clearance: Ability to pass a Moderate Risk background investigation and mandatory drug testing.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary structure commensurate with the responsibilities of a Level 8 supervisor.
| Pay Period | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Per Year | $123,728 | $160,845 |
Benefits
FAA employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Healthcare: Flexible insurance options for you and your family.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and federal holiday schedules.
- Growth: Continuous training and professional development programs.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success, ensure your resume is perfectly tailored to the vacancy announcement. Highlight your leadership experience specifically, as the selection committee will evaluate you against the MWP dimensions. Always double-check your application for missing documents, especially the required SF-50 and FAA Form 3330-43.
Serving as an Operational Supervisor in Tucson is a chance to lead high-stakes operations in a dynamic, growing sector. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to take the next step in your federal aviation career, apply now to join the FAA team.
Why This Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor, Level 8) Job Matters
Elevate your career with the FAA! Lead teams of elite professionals as an Operational Supervisor at the Tucson TRACON and shape the future of national airspace safety.
Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor, Level 8) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking an experienced, dynamic leader to serve as an Operational Supervisor (Level 8) in Tucson, Arizona. In this pivotal role, you will be responsible for planning, directing, and supervising air traffic control operations. You will manage a team of Developmental and Certified Professional Controllers, overseeing their training, performance, and day-to-day work priorities to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency within the facility's geographic area of responsibility.
Requirements for Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor, Level 8)
- U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
- Must have held an FAA 2152 FV-J/FG-14 or above regional or headquarters position for at least one year.
- OR must have been facility rated or area certified for at least one year in an ATS facility.
- OR must have held a Management Staff Specialist (MSS) position for at least one year in an ATS facility.
- Must complete and submit FAA Form 3330-43 (Page 1) by the closing date.
- Must address all four FAA Managerial Workforce Planning (MWP) Selection Factors/Dimensions.
- Subject to pre-employment drug screening and random drug/alcohol testing.
- Must successfully pass a Moderate Risk background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor, Level 8)
- Demonstrated experience in managing complex air traffic control environments.
- Proven history of effective labor-management partnership participation.
- Excellence in personnel development, performance evaluation, and conflict resolution within a technical environment.
- Expertise in balancing administrative duties with operational demands.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement system participation
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Comprehensive professional development and training
- ✓Life insurance benefits
- ✓Structured career progression opportunities
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor, Level 8) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operational Supervisor, Level 8) Job
- Prepare a federal-style resume limited to two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes specific job titles, series/grades, and hours worked.
- Complete and upload FAA Form 3330-43.
- Submit responses to the four MWP Selection Factors.
- Upload current SF-50 (if an FAA employee) showing Blocks 15, 17, 18, 19, 22, and 24.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; extra pages may not be considered.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the qualifications listed in the announcement.
- Double-check that your FAA Form 3330-43 is the correct version and is fully completed.
- Submit early to avoid technical issues as the deadline approaches.
- If you are an FAA employee, verify that your SF-50 clearly displays the required blocks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Operational Supervisor at the Tucson TRACON?
You will manage a team of air traffic controllers, oversee shift scheduling, ensure compliance with safety policies, and handle administrative matters such as performance evaluations and training development.
Can I submit my SF-50 via email?
No, SF-50 forms sent via email will not be accepted. They must be uploaded through the online application system or submitted via fax/mail.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
What is the age limit for this position?
There is no specific age limit listed for this supervisory role, but standard federal retirement eligibility applies.
Is there a probationary period?
Yes, new supervisors may be subject to a one-year managerial probationary period.
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA’s Air Traffic Organization (ATO) manages one of the largest and most sophisticated systems in the world. With over 44,000 employees, the FAA is at the forefront of aerospace innovation, from autonomous drones to high-speed sustainable aircraft. Working for the FAA means being part of a mission-driven organization that values technical excellence, equity, and public safety above all else.