The Fall 2024 application window is now closed.

Applicants must meet the basic qualifications mentioned above. Applicants must complete these steps in the following order and cannot continue unless the previous step is met. The application process can take 6 months or longer. Application process:

1. Apply to the vacancy announcement.
   • Use the ATC Application Checklist to guide you.
   • View the Air Traffic Control: Application Resources videos to help you build your resume and navigate the application process.
2. Pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) and achieve a score within a certain percentile. You will have up to 3 1/2 hours to complete the test in person at an approved testing facility. The ATSA is free of charge.
3. Pass medical and security clearance, including:
   • Drug testing 
   • Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI2)
   • Medical Exam/Physical
   • Fingerprinting 
   • Federal background check

Entry-level applicants must complete required training courses and spend several months at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. Applicants are paid while in training. After graduating the academy, individuals are placed in locations across the country and must gain 1-3 years on-the-job experience before becoming a certified professional controller.

Trainee controller Lillian told Secretary Pete she wanted to be a controller when she was 12 years old. She fulfilled her dream. You can too.

Controllers work full time and some work additional hours. Many of our facilities operate continuously (24/7/365), where employees work day, evening and night shifts, along with weekends and holidays.

You will receive paid training at the Academy plus health benefits, food and housing allowances.

Once you graduate from the Academy, your salary goes up to $60,000 per year, on average. Pay continues to go up as you gain more experience and earn professional certifications. Generally, most controllers are making a six-figure salary within three years.

Last year, the average salary for Certified Professional Controllers was $158,000 per year.

As a federal employee, air traffic controllers receive a robust benefits package - with a variety of insurance, retirement, leave, and flexible spending options for employees and their families. In addition, air traffic controllers are afforded some unique benefits like an early retirement age and special retirement annuity calculation.  

• Unlike traditional federal employees that need 30 years of service to retire, air traffic controllers are able to retire at age 50 with at least 20 years of service or any age with at least 25 years. This means depending when you embark on your air traffic controller career you may have the time to pursue a second career. 
• Retirement annuity is a guaranteed income for a person during their retirement years. Air traffic controllers receive a more generous annuity than traditional federal employees.