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If you’ve ever Googled “Air Traffic Controller job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of articles. But here’s the problem: most of them look exactly the same.
They all follow the same dry formula:
- A generic list of duties.
- Some bullet points.
- A cold instruction to “apply here.”
But if you’re actually trying to attract great candidates—people who can stay calm under pressure, make life-or-death decisions in seconds, and guide hundreds of lives safely every day—that kind of job post won’t cut it.
Because here’s the truth: Top talent doesn’t get excited by checklists. They want to know what they’re joining. Who they’ll be working with. Why it matters.
If your job post doesn’t answer those questions, the best candidates won’t even finish reading it—let alone apply.
So in this guide, I’ll show you how to write a job description for an Air Traffic Controller that actually attracts qualified, reliable professionals—not just generic applicants.
And if you haven’t already, I highly recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ to understand what makes a job post work—and why the old way of writing them just doesn’t.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What Does an Air Traffic Controller Actually Do?
An Air Traffic Controller is the person who keeps planes from crashing into each other.
It’s that simple—and that serious.
Their job is to guide aircraft safely through the sky and across runways, using radar, radios, and strict protocols to prevent collisions and delays. They’re in constant communication with pilots, helping them take off, land, and navigate crowded airspace—especially during bad weather or emergencies.
But here’s what most job posts forget to mention: this role isn’t just about following procedures. It’s about staying calm under pressure, thinking fast, and making clear decisions when lives are on the line.
So yes, they need to understand radar systems, FAA regulations, and standard phraseology—but just as important are focus, mental endurance, and the ability to stay sharp during long, high-stress shifts.
A great Air Traffic Controller isn’t just technically skilled—they’re composed, reliable, and unshakably alert.
Two Great Air Traffic Controller Job Description Templates
✅ Updated Job Description Template – Experienced Air Traffic Controller
Job Title:
Air Traffic Controller – Experienced Professional | AeroSafe Control Center | Denver, CO
Job Type:
Full-Time | On-Site | Rotating Shifts
Salary:
$96,000 – $124,000 per year (Based on Experience) + Benefits
🎥 A quick word from your future team leader:
[Insert Loom or YouTube Video Link from the Facility Manager]
🛩️ Who We Are
AeroSafe Control Center is a privately operated air traffic facility supporting both commercial and cargo operations at Denver International Airport (DEN). We’ve been operating since 2004 and manage over 1,500 aircraft movements daily across multiple airspace sectors. Safety and clarity are at the heart of everything we do—and we’re proud to be one of the most trusted ATC partners in the Rocky Mountain region.
🧠 Our Company Culture
At AeroSafe, we don’t believe in ego—just excellence. Our culture is built on high trust, sharp focus, and calm under pressure. Controllers here aren’t just expected to follow checklists—they’re encouraged to bring good judgment, clear thinking, and team coordination to every situation. We train hard, communicate constantly, and support each other like clockwork.
✈️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Guide aircraft safely through Denver’s controlled airspace using radar and radio systems
- Manage takeoffs, landings, and in-route transitions while minimizing delays
- Coordinate handoffs with adjacent ATC facilities and communicate directly with pilots
- Issue weather advisories and adjust flight paths as needed
- Respond to emergencies with clarity, precision, and speed
- Log activity reports and adhere strictly to FAA standards
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of certified experience in a TRACON, Tower, or En Route facility
- FAA ATC certification or international equivalent
- Excellent situational awareness and clear verbal communication
- The ability to stay composed and think fast in high-stress conditions
- Strong multitasking and attention to detail
- Willingness to work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays
🎯 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t a desk job—it’s a high-impact, high-responsibility career. You’ll be joining a team that thrives on discipline, mutual trust, and performance. At AeroSafe, every controller is respected as a critical contributor. If you’re looking for a role where your decisions matter and your experience is valued, this is it.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary with shift differentials
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid time off and holidays
- On-site fitness center
- Annual safety bonus
- Relocation assistance available
- Noise-canceling headset stipend + custom ergonomic workstation
📥 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
🌱 Updated Job Description Template – Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller (Trainee)
Job Title:
Air Traffic Controller Trainee – No Experience Needed | AeroSafe Control Center | Denver, CO
Job Type:
Full-Time | On-Site | Paid Training Provided
Salary:
$61,000 – $68,000 annually + paid training + benefits
🎥 Meet your mentor: Why we invest in new talent at AeroSafe
[Insert Loom or YouTube Video Link from the Training Supervisor]
🛩️ Who We Are
AeroSafe Control Center manages complex air traffic across Denver International Airport and its surrounding sectors. We are known for precision, performance, and mentorship. Our privately run facility supports both commercial and private aircraft—and we’re expanding our trainee program to invest in the next generation of skilled controllers.
🧠 Our Company Culture
We take performance seriously—but we never lose sight of people. AeroSafe is structured, collaborative, and mission-driven. We believe in direct communication, zero-blame problem solving, and supporting every team member’s growth. Our best controllers started with zero experience—and are now running live sectors with confidence.
✈️ What You’ll Be Doing (Once Trained)
- Monitor, direct, and coordinate aircraft movements via radar and radio systems
- Relay clear, confident instructions to pilots in real time
- Support senior controllers in handling complex routes and emergencies
- Apply what you learn in real simulations, then transition to live supervision
- Maintain logs, safety reports, and real-time updates
✅ What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or GED (college degree a plus)
- Must be under 31 years old (per FAA hiring guidelines)
- Quick learner with strong focus and calm under pressure
- Excellent communication skills and mental endurance
- Must pass FAA-approved training and medical exams
- Willing to work variable shifts, nights, and weekends
🎯 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’re ready to commit to a career where focus, training, and personal growth matter—you’ll thrive here. We’ll teach you everything you need to know. What we care most about is your mindset. This is a rare chance to join a respected facility, learn from professionals, and build a future you can be proud of.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Paid training and full certification support
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan with company match
- Wellness and fitness reimbursement
- On-site coaching and mentorship
- Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
- Noise-canceling headset + custom chair budget
- 15 PTO days + 9 paid holidays per year
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make the hiring process fair, fast, and skill-based.
Click the link below to complete your brief evaluation and get started:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Why These Air Traffic Controller Job Posts Work
Let’s break down why both job descriptions—experienced and entry-level—are strong, clear, and effective:
✅ 1. The Job Title Is Clear, Descriptive, and Targeted
Instead of just saying “Air Traffic Controller,” each post includes:
- The experience level (e.g. “Trainee” vs. “Experienced Professional”)
- The company and location (e.g. “AeroSafe Control Center | Denver, CO”)
This instantly increases relevance and reduces confusion. Applicants know exactly what they’re applying for, and where.
✅ 2. The Opening Video Builds Trust and Human Connection
Including a short Loom or YouTube video adds a personal touch. Candidates see the hiring manager or trainer, hear the tone of the workplace, and feel welcomed even before applying.
That’s powerful—especially in roles where trust, communication, and calm leadership are essential.
✅ 3. The ‘Who We Are’ Section Sounds Like a Real Company
Instead of generic placeholder text, the company is described like an actual organization:
- What they do
- How long they’ve been around
- What makes them respected in the industry
This creates credibility and helps applicants picture the real-world impact of the job.
✅ 4. Company Culture Isn’t Claimed—It’s Shown
Instead of vague buzzwords like “fast-paced” or “collaborative,” the culture is described through behavior:
- “Zero-blame problem solving”
- “Mutual trust and performance”
- “Calm under pressure”
This helps applicants self-select into the right environment and shows what traits are truly valued.
✅ 5. Responsibilities Are Explained With Purpose
It’s not just “monitor radar” or “issue flight instructions”—each responsibility is framed as a mission-critical task.
That gives the job weight and meaning. And for Air Traffic Control, that’s especially important.
✅ 6. The Hiring Process Respects the Candidate
Instead of vague phrases like “Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted,” the posts explain exactly:
- What happens next
- How the evaluation works
- That every application will be reviewed fairly
It makes the process feel transparent and respectful—reducing applicant anxiety.
✅ 7. Salary and Benefits Are Listed Clearly
Both job descriptions include:
- A realistic salary range
- A breakdown of perks and benefits
- Non-financial perks like coaching, training, or ergonomics
This signals honesty and builds early trust—especially for roles with strict schedules and high mental demands.
✅ 8. The ‘Why This Role Is a Great Fit’ Section Does the Selling
Rather than assuming people already want the job, this section explains:
- How the work feels day-to-day
- Why the role matters
- What kind of growth and recognition they can expect
It’s motivating, personal, and applicant-centered.
✅ 9. Language Is Human—Not Robotic
From “You’ll thrive here” to “We take performance seriously—but never lose sight of people,” the tone is conversational and trustworthy.
That alone sets it apart from 90% of posts in this field.
Bad Air Traffic Controller Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title:
Air Traffic Control Officer
Location:
Denver, CO
Job Type:
Full-Time
Summary:
We are seeking an Air Traffic Control Officer to manage aircraft movements in and out of the airport. The candidate will be responsible for giving instructions to pilots and ensuring the safe movement of air traffic. This role requires attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure.
Responsibilities:
- Monitor and manage air traffic
- Issue instructions to pilots
- Ensure safety of aircraft operations
- Report incidents to supervisors
- Comply with aviation regulations
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 2–3 years of experience in air traffic control
- Ability to work night and weekend shifts
- Strong communication skills
How to Apply:
Please email your resume and cover letter to careers@aviationjobs.org. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🚫 Why This Job Post Fails
❌ 1. Generic Job Title With No Targeting
Just saying “Air Traffic Control Officer” is vague and unsearchable. It doesn’t specify the type of airspace (tower, TRACON, en route), experience level, or employer.
This makes it harder to attract qualified or relevant applicants.
❌ 2. No Personality or Mission in the Intro
The introduction is cold, transactional, and purely functional. There’s no mention of:
- Why the role matters
- Who the company is
- What kind of impact the controller will have
It reads like a copy-paste template.
❌ 3. No Company Identity
There’s zero context about the employer—no company name, no history, no facility size, no team culture.
It’s impossible for a candidate to evaluate fit or get excited about working here.
❌ 4. Responsibilities Are Too Broad and Boring
“Monitor and manage air traffic” could apply to any control center in the world. There’s no mention of tools, communication style, traffic volume, or edge-case responsibilities like weather or emergencies.
It doesn’t help the applicant picture the day-to-day reality of the job.
❌ 5. No Salary or Benefits
The post gives no indication of pay, perks, or what’s in it for the applicant. That signals opacity and creates distrust—especially in high-responsibility roles.
❌ 6. Hiring Process Feels Cold and Outdated
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” tells applicants:
“You probably won’t hear from us.”
This instantly lowers trust and decreases the chances that serious candidates will apply.
❌ 7. No Call to Action, No Video, No Culture
There’s no personal message, no visual intro, no culture section—nothing to humanize the post. It feels like a formality, not an opportunity.
Bottom Line: This post checks technical boxes, but it completely fails to inspire, differentiate, or build trust. It treats the candidate like a commodity—and that’s exactly how top talent doesn’t want to feel.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
🛡️ 1. Add a Candidate Security Notice
Scams targeting job seekers are becoming more common, especially in aviation and government-adjacent roles. Including a short security disclaimer in your job post shows that you take applicant safety seriously.
Example:
🔒 We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any point during the hiring process. If you ever receive suspicious communication claiming to be from us, please report it immediately to hr@aerosafecontrol.com.
🌴 2. Mention Leave or Flex Days Clearly
Candidates in high-pressure roles care deeply about rest and recovery—but many job posts ignore this. Calling out your PTO or flex-day policy makes your job post more human.
Example:
Enjoy 15 paid days off annually—plus 9 federal holidays—so you can recharge without guilt. We believe great performance starts with proper rest.
🚀 3. Highlight Training and Career Growth Opportunities
Whether you’re hiring experienced professionals or trainees, top candidates want to know there’s a path forward.
Examples:
- Paid cross-sector training after 12 months of performance.
- Pathway to Senior Controller or Team Lead within 2–3 years.
- Ongoing mentorship and simulation refreshers included.
This not only increases applications but also helps reduce early turnover.
🎥 4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video to Humanize the Post
Seeing and hearing from a real team member builds trust in a way words alone can’t. It also gives candidates a feel for your communication style, leadership tone, and company energy.
Ideas for video content:
- A warm welcome from the hiring manager
- A quick tour of the control center
- A team member sharing what they like about working there
Even a simple 60-second Loom can dramatically improve conversions.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✍️ 5. Include a Quick Note on Evaluation Fairness
If you’re using WorkScreen (or any skill-based platform), tell applicants upfront that the hiring process is focused on what they can do—not just what’s on their résumé.
Example:
We believe actions speak louder than resumes. That’s why we use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on performance—not just qualifications. Everyone gets a fair shot.
These small additions show care, transparency, and respect—and in a high-stakes, high-responsibility field like air traffic control, that’s what top candidates are looking for.
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
It’s tempting to use AI tools to instantly generate job descriptions. After all, many platforms (like Manatal and Workable) now offer “one-click” templates using ChatGPT.
But here’s the problem: those templates usually sound like this:
“We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our fast-paced environment as an Air Traffic Controller. The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills and be able to work well under pressure…”
That’s not a job post. That’s a cliché generator.
🤖 What Happens When You Rely on AI Alone?
- You end up with generic language that could apply to any company, in any industry
- You attract the wrong candidates—people who are skimming dozens of similar-sounding roles
- You repel top talent, because nothing about your post sounds real, specific, or worth applying to
- You miss the opportunity to reflect your actual values, tone, and mission
Your job post is often a candidate’s first interaction with your company. If it reads like AI fluff, that’s how they’ll see your hiring process—and your brand.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (If You Must)
AI is a great assistant—not a replacement for your input. If you’re going to use it, give it direction.
Here’s how to prompt it properly:
“Help me write a job post for our company, AeroSafe Control Center. We’re hiring an experienced Air Traffic Controller to help manage high-traffic airspace in and around Denver International Airport. Our company culture is built on trust, precision, and calm communication. We want to attract applicants who are mentally sharp, team-oriented, and thrive in high-stakes environments. We offer 15 PTO days, a full benefits package, and paid cross-sector training after 12 months. Our hiring process uses WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on skill—not just resumes.”
Then add:
“Here’s a draft I’ve written or some notes to get started: [Paste your outline]”
Let AI refine and clean it up—but don’t let it generate your post from scratch.
You’re hiring for one of the most important roles in modern transportation. Don’t outsource that responsibility to a robot.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Air Traffic Controller Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description (Culture-First Style)
Job Title:
Air Traffic Controller – Experienced | [Company Name] | [Location]
Type:
Full-Time | On-Site | Rotating Shifts
Salary:
$[XX,XXX] – $[XX,XXX] annually + full benefits
🎥 A quick intro from our team:
[Insert Video Link from Hiring Manager or Team Lead]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we guide aircraft safely through the sky—and we take that responsibility seriously. We manage high-volume airspace near [Airport Name], and our team is trusted with thousands of lives every single day.
We’re looking for a calm, focused professional who thrives under pressure and makes decisions with clarity—even when the radar lights up.
Our Culture
Precision matters—but so does people. We support each other, communicate clearly, and never let ego get in the way of safety. We train hard, operate smoothly, and treat every flight like it’s carrying someone we love.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Issue clear instructions to pilots for takeoffs, landings, and en route transitions
- Use radar and communication systems to track and direct aircraft
- Monitor weather and adjust flight paths accordingly
- Coordinate with other ATC facilities, ground crews, and emergency responders
- Maintain safety reports and activity logs
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of certified air traffic control experience
- FAA certification or international equivalent
- Strong decision-making and communication skills
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Willing to work rotating shifts, including nights/weekends
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Full medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid time off + federal holidays
- Noise-canceling headset and ergonomic workstation allowance
- Cross-sector training opportunities
- Relocation assistance available
Why This Role Is Worth Your Time
If you want more than just a job—if you want a mission, a team that trusts you, and a role where you’re truly valued—this is the place.
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants fairly based on real-world ability.
👉 Click here to start your application: [Insert WorkScreen Link]
📋 Option 2: Structured Job Description Format
Job Title:
Air Traffic Controller | [Company Name] | [Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: $[Insert Range] + Benefits
Location: On-Site | [Facility Name]
🎥 A quick intro from our team:
[Insert Video Link from Hiring Manager or Team Lead]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking an experienced Air Traffic Controller to manage aircraft movements in a high-traffic control zone near [Airport Name]. You’ll work as part of a dedicated team to ensure the safe, efficient flow of air traffic in accordance with FAA regulations and internal protocols.
Key Responsibilities
- Direct aircraft safely through controlled airspace using radar and communication tools
- Monitor flight progress and respond to emergencies or weather disruptions
- Maintain coordination with adjacent control centers and airport ground crews
- Follow standard ATC procedures and ensure full documentation of flight movements
- Report incidents and participate in ongoing safety training
Requirements
- FAA ATC certification (or international equivalent)
- Minimum 2 years experience in a TRACON, Tower, or En Route facility
- Clear verbal communication and rapid decision-making skills
- Ability to manage multiple moving elements in high-pressure environments
- Willingness to work flexible hours (including overnights, weekends, holidays)
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision insurance
- Paid time off + paid holidays
- Performance-based annual bonus
- Shift differential pay
- Wellness stipend + ergonomic gear
- Ongoing paid training and advancement
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to ensure candidates are evaluated based on performance, not just résumés.
Click the link below to start your application:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Want to Hire the Right Air Traffic Controller? Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step.
Creating a thoughtful, human job description is step one. But once those applications start rolling in, you need a way to separate top-tier talent from the rest—fast, fairly, and without burning out your team.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
🧠 Here’s What WorkScreen Helps You Do:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort applicants (including those using AI tools)
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
✨ The Result?
- No more wasting time on unqualified applicants
- No more guesswork about who can perform
- Just a smarter, faster way to hire with confidence
Whether you’re hiring one controller or scaling a full team—WorkScreen helps you do it right.
FAQ
Beyond technical qualifications and FAA certification, the most important skills include:
- Situational awareness – the ability to quickly understand what’s happening in a constantly changing environment
- Calm under pressure – remaining composed when managing emergencies, delays, or pilot confusion
- Fast decision-making – making accurate calls in seconds, especially when safety is on the line
- Clear verbal communication – speaking with confidence and precision over radio systems
- Multitasking – tracking multiple aircraft, radio channels, and environmental factors at once
- Mental stamina – maintaining focus during long, high-stress shifts
- Team coordination – working seamlessly with other controllers, pilots, and ground teams
Strong soft skills are just as vital as technical expertise. These qualities are often what separate a dependable controller from a dangerous one.
In the United States, the average salary for an Air Traffic Controller ranges from $85,000 to over $130,000 per year, depending on:
- Experience level
- Location and traffic volume
- Facility type (Tower, TRACON, or En Route)
- Whether the role is government (FAA) or private sector
Senior controllers in high-traffic hubs can earn well over $150,000 with overtime and shift differentials. Entry-level trainees typically start around $60,000–$70,000, increasing significantly after certification.
- Tower Controllers manage aircraft immediately around the airport—during takeoff, landing, and ground movement.
- TRACON (Terminal Radar Approach Control) controllers handle aircraft entering or leaving the airspace around large airports (typically up to 50 miles out).
- En Route (or Center) Controllers guide aircraft during the cruising phase of flight, across long distances and multiple regions.
Each role has unique pressure points, tools, and protocols—and candidates are typically trained for one track at a time.
No—military experience is not required, but it can be helpful. Many former military controllers transition into FAA or private-sector roles with an advantage due to hands-on training and exposure to high-stakes environments.
However, candidates without military backgrounds can also enter the field through FAA Academy programs or certified training pathways.
