How to Apply for an Air Traffic Control Job

Air traffic controllers have many responsibilities, including keeping track of flight plans, notifying pilots of flight conditions, and knowing the type, speed and registration numbers of all airplanes for which the air traffic controller is responsible. Here's how to apply for an air traffic control job.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Plan ahead. To be eligible to apply for an air traffic control job you must complete four years of undergraduate study and have three years of previous experience through, for example, working in the military.

2. Enroll in and complete an air traffic controller education program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration. These programs are offered by many traditional and technical colleges around the country.

3. Go to the Federal Aviation Administration website to look for job openings. The FAA website lists all current air traffic control jobs available. While there, you can search for a job in a specific area and fill out an online application.

4. Know the age restrictions. In order to be considered for an entry-level air traffic control job, the FAA requires that you must be under the age of 31 at the time of application.

5. Know the exceptions. There are exceptions to the education requirements if you have extensive previous air traffic control or military experience. Check the FAA website for exceptions that apply specifically to your situation.

Tips & Warnings

• According to the FAA, you can combine your school and work experience to meet eligibility requirements.
• All air traffic controllers are required to pass a physical exam upon the acceptance of their application and be subjected to yearly physicals
• Don't apply for an air traffic control job if you have a criminal history. All job applicants' backgrounds are screened. If you have been in jail or even if you have too many traffic tickets, you will not pass the initial applicant screening and are not eligible to apply for a job as an air traffic controller.

Resources

• Get information about air traffic control job openings.
• Learn more about air traffic controller requirements.

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