Get a Job as an Air Traffic Controller

Pilots follow a complex set of rules as they take off, fly and land their planes. Air traffic controllers work in control towers and radar centers to monitor planes, communicate with pilots and keep air traffic flowing efficiently and safely. Most air traffic control positions are with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These jobs are demanding and require candidates who can think clearly and act rationally under pressure. The application process to get a job as an air traffic controller is rigorous, but the reward is a well-paying, secure and highly-respected job.

Steps

  1. Contact the FAA to see if there are openings in the region of the country in which you prefer to work. Hiring is typically done periodically, in large groups. You can request to be put on a list to be notified when hiring occurs.
    • You will not be able to choose the specific city or facility you are placed in when you achieve certification. You must be flexible enough to relocate within the region for which you apply.
  2. Submit an application. The FAA will instruct you on how to access the application. They will also be able to give more specific information on application requirements.
    • In most cases, applicants for air traffic control positions must be younger than 31 years. The FAA looks for professional experience in administrative or technical fields. A college degree or military experience is recommended, but not always required. Some colleges and technical schools partner with the FAA to offer the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program. Graduates of AT-CTI gain a competitive edge in the application process, and may be able to move through training more quickly.
    • The U.S. military trains air traffic controllers through classroom instruction. Military air traffic controllers receive FAA certification and can use their training to qualify for special consideration when applying for civilian positions after their service.
  3. Complete the FAA pre-employment test. A minimum score of 70 is required to continue in the application process. A score of 70 does not necessarily guarantee you will be able to continue, as your score will be compared with other applicants' scores.
  4. Pass physical and psychological evaluations where your vision and overall health will be measured.
  5. Participate in a 5-week training course at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, Okla. You must pass this course in order to be assigned a position. AT-CTI graduates may not be required to participate in this training, since the material was covered in their college coursework.
  6. Train on the job at your assigned facility. Training continues for 1 to 4 years depending on the complexity of the facility.
    • Your facility training team will determine whether you meet the standards to continue working as an air traffic controller once you have completed training. Controllers who do not perform satisfactorily during training may be dismissed based on recommendations from training staff.

Tips

  • Air traffic controllers receive ongoing training and testing even after they become fully certified. They are required to schedule periodic physical examinations and are subject to random drug and psychological testing. Failure to pass examinations may result in dismissal at any point throughout an air traffic controller's career.

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References

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