Air Traffic Controller Salary
The air traffic controller plays a key point in the air transportation industry. They are the ones who inform pilots about current weather conditions, keep their flight paths clear from other commercial and private air craft, and help to ensure safety in the skies. They do this by using several very advanced radar and visual observation, making their jobs one that require attention to detail, knowledge of finely tuned instruments, and an understanding of modern aviation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is the primary employer of air traffic controllers, which means not only the salary of a government employee, but also the benefits. Many air traffic controllers are offered retirement at an early age, normally after 25 years of service or once reaching 50 years of age. While the benefits may seem like a sure fire bet, most people looking to become an air traffic controller need to remember they are responsible for the lives of thousands of people every day, ensuring that their flight lands in safe conditions.
An air traffic controller has very specific educational requirements. Since the job is very vital to air safety, there are a number of requirement that need to be met.
1. Bachelor's Degree or experience equivalency.
2. Passing of a certification examination.
3. A training program approved by the FAA.
4. Under the age of 30.
5. Pre-employment screening process has been passed (primarily for applicants seeking federal employment).
You will also have a lengthy training and probationary period to ensure you can meet the requirements of the job. The majority of your training will revolve around flight safety, traffic patterns, and under standing the equipment you will be using.
The air traffic controller salary is one of the best starting out, but based on the extensive education and training needed, it is well-deserved. Low paying air traffic controller positions still pay around $60,000, with high paying positions (primarily with the FAA) can be well over the $150,000 mark. The average salary for an air traffic controller is around the $114,000 mark, which is very substantial compared to many other professions.
The outlook for this career path is very good. Due to the high stress and educational requirements of the job, air traffic controllers are often in high demand. Add to that the fact that the FAA will be adding several thousand new jobs over the next 5 years, and you have a recipe for success.
