Military Air Traffic Controllers
Military Career
General Information
Description
Air traffic controllers direct the movement of aircraft into and out of military airfields. They operate communications equipment and track aircraft using navigational aids. They coordinate and communicate aircraft movement information, as well as weather and airfield conditions. They also provide critical information to direct the action of combat aircraft engaged in close air support and other offensive air operations.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Air traffic controllers work in land-based and shipboard control centers.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Comparable Industries
- Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Enlisted
- Hands-on/specialized
- High school diploma required
Military Workforce
Air Traffic Controllers in the Military
24,192
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$59,251
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$22,748 - $236,074
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
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High school 36%
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Bachelor's degree 20%
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Post-secondary certificate 20%
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Associate's degree 14%
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Some college 5%
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Post baccalaureate 1%
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Less than high school 1%
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Master's degree 0%
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Doctoral degree 0%
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Post-doctoral training 0%
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Post-master's certificate 0%
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First professional degree 0%
Military training
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Air traffic controllers will gain skills through classes and on-the-job experience. Training content varies by specialty (e.g., those stationed on aircraft carriers), and may include: Air traffic control fundamentalsVisual and instrument flight proceduresTake-off, landing, and ground control proceduresAircraft recognitionCommunication and radar procedures
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Related College Majors
Select major to see colleges that offer it
Knowledge
- Transportation
- Customer and Personal Service
- Education and Training
- Public Safety and Security
- Geography
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