Advance Your Career: Airway Transportation System Specialist (SOC NOM) at the FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the backbone of global aviation, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS). We are currently looking for a seasoned professional to join our team in Elgin, Illinois, as an Airway Transportation System Specialist in the role of System Operations Center (SOC) National Operations Manager (NOM). If you are a leader with a passion for complex aviation technology and system restoration, this is your opportunity to shape the future of flight.
Job Responsibilities
As a SOC NOM, you are the principal technical expert responsible for:
- Resolving unanticipated technical situations that affect the NAS.
- Leading large-scale projects and serving as a senior project manager.
- Coordinating with air traffic entities to manage system shutdowns and restorations.
- Developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for emergency safety situations.
- Utilizing Operational Risk Management (ORM) to ensure service continuity.
- Reporting vital NAS status information to senior leadership.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Extensive experience with NAS technology.
- Submission of specific narrative statements for Demonstrated Abilities.
- Ability to pass mandatory drug screenings.
- Two-page resume limit.
Salary Overview
This position is covered under the FAA Core Compensation Plan, offering a highly competitive salary range.
| Pay Metric | Range/Detail |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $124,957 - $193,721 |
| Pay Frequency | Annual |
| Job Series | 2101 |
Benefits
Working for the FAA means access to premier federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Retirement plans (FERS).
- Federal leave and holiday programs.
- Professional training and growth opportunities.
Application Tips
To stand out, your application must be precise. Ensure every narrative response links your specific experience to the job's core responsibilities. Keep your resume under two pages and verify that your SF-50 is attached if you are an internal candidate.
Serving as an SOC NOM is a demanding but highly rewarding career path. If you have the technical expertise and leadership skills to maintain the safety of the skies, apply today and join our mission.
Why This Airway Transportation System Specialist (Nas Operations Manager (Soc Nom)) Job Matters
Shape the future of aviation technology as a Senior Operations Manager at the heart of the Chicago TRACON.
Airway Transportation System Specialist (Nas Operations Manager (Soc Nom)) Job Overview
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is seeking an expert Airway Transportation System Specialist to serve as a System Operations Center (SOC) National Operations Manager (NOM). In this pivotal leadership role based in Elgin, Illinois, you will act as the principal technical authority, ensuring the integrity, safety, and continuous operation of the National Airspace System (NAS). You will manage complex projects, navigate emergency situations, and lead multidisciplinary teams to resolve technical challenges across critical aviation infrastructure.
Requirements for Airway Transportation System Specialist (Nas Operations Manager (Soc Nom))
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess extensive knowledge of NAS technology system interrelationships.
- Experience in managing civilian or military automated aviation, navigation, or electronics systems.
- Submission of narrative statements for all required Demonstrated Abilities.
- Supervisory endorsement required for promotion candidates (Level IV to Level V).
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and participate in random drug/alcohol testing.
- Resumes are strictly limited to two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Airway Transportation System Specialist (Nas Operations Manager (Soc Nom))
- Proven track record of managing large, challenging technical projects.
- Expertise in Operational Risk Management (ORM) implementation.
- Experience in developing and interpreting complex organizational policies.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve emergent technical issues under high-pressure scenarios.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Generous retirement planning (FERS).
- ✓Paid vacation and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the FAA.
- ✓Work-life balance programs.
💡 How to Apply Airway Transportation System Specialist (Nas Operations Manager (Soc Nom)) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Airway Transportation System Specialist (Nas Operations Manager (Soc Nom)) Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, ensuring all work history includes job titles, series/grades, and hours per week.
- Draft detailed narrative statements for each Demonstrated Ability required by the announcement.
- Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50 forms for current FAA employees.
- Secure a supervisory endorsement if applying for a promotion.
- Apply online via the official FAA/USAJobs portal before the closing date.
- Monitor email for potential interview requests or assessment invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Do not assume the hiring panel knows your background; clearly articulate how your past roles map to the required Demonstrated Abilities.
- Ensure your SF-50 is accurate and reflects your current grade, tenure, and organization.
- Resubmit your application if you make any changes to your profile after the initial submission.
- Be concise with your two-page resume; prioritize recent, relevant technical experience.
- Submit your supervisory endorsement early to avoid last-minute technical glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is based on-site in Elgin, Illinois, and is not listed as telework-eligible.
What is the salary range for this role?
The annual salary for this position ranges from $124,957 to $193,721.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is subject to a background investigation and potential security clearance requirements.
What is the closing date?
The position closes on November 17, 2026.
Who is the bargaining unit representative?
This position is represented by the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS).
Job from Federal Aviation Administration
The FAA is a diverse workforce of over 44,000 professionals nationwide. From air traffic controllers to scientists and system specialists, our team is dedicated to providing the safest and most efficient aerospace system in the world. By joining us, you are contributing to a legacy of innovation that includes emerging technologies like electric and autonomous aircraft.