AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

ABOUT

Act as our eyes and ears in the sky, mapping coasts and ports for Navy intelligence. Gain extensive training in radar, sonar, and air traffic communications. If you feel more at home above the sea than on it, a career in aviation might be for you. Below are some examples of the vast opportunities in this field.

AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER

Commercial airlines aren’t the only ones who need traffic management. In the Navy, our fighter jets, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft need vigilant Air Traffic Controllers to keep flight decks and airstrips in check. As an AC, you work against moving runways, inclement weather and mechanical issues to get personnel safely to the ground. Navy aircraft are

moving all the time, so it’s your responsibility to organize air traffic and communicate critical information to pilots. With extensive training in radar and air traffic communications, this rate is one of the easiest to translate into a civilian career post−service. As an Air Traffic Controller, you can command the skies.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The successful operation of a flight deck on an aircraft carrier is one of the most complex, high−stakes exercises on the planet. It’s no small task to ensure that each aircraft that leaves the flight deck performs its mission successfully and returns home safely. Navy Air Traffic Controllers are essential in directing the everyday complexities above and below the flight deck.

Their responsibilities include:

• Providing air traffic control services in air traffic control towers, radar air traffic control facilities, fleet area control and surveillance facilities and air operations ashore and afloat
• Operating radio communication systems and light signals
• Performing aircraft tactical duties as a flight engineer, loadmaster and/or reel operator
• Executing handling duties related to the launch and recovery of Naval aircraft
• Interpreting data shown on radar screens to plot aircraft positions
• Operating tactical weapons, sensors, and communications equipment
• Working with Pilots to operate and control aircraft systems

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

• Competitive salary
• Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
• Free health insurance
• Free housing
• A retirement plan
• Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

• Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
• Post−9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
• Professional credentials and certifications
• College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• U.S. citizen or equivalent
• High school graduate or equivalent
• 17 years of age or older

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before, or whether you’ve never served before.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Make the world your home. You may be assigned to sea or shore squadrons on almost any continent. You will have the opportunity to work in a variety of environments—from airborne aircraft to hangars, hangar decks to flight decks and flight lines at air stations and on aircraft carriers.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

The role above is an Active Duty opportunity in the Navy, however there are part-time roles available in Air Support for the Navy. Serving part−time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Sailors in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.