For Educators: Military Resources
Military Air Traffic Control Managers
Median Salary
127,095
Workforce Count
23,088
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
Air traffic control managers oversee the operations of airfields and control centers, both on land and at sea, that direct the tactical employment of aircraft during combat or noncombat missions. They prepare flight operations plans and monitor the maneuvers of aircraft in and out of airspace. They train, establish standards, and conduct operational evaluations to manage unit training and performance standards that ensure airfield operations personnel possess required job skills.
What is the work environment like?
Air traffic control managers work in air traffic control towers and centers at airfields and aboard ships.
How many people have this role in the Military?
23,088
Compensation
Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$153,736
2 Years
$101,220
6 Years
$153,736
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
What Service Branches offer this role?
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Officers are service members who plan, direct operations and manage enlisted personnel, developing a broad range of leadership-related skills.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
Air traffic control managers may have an education in business, science, or a related field. Job training for air traffic control managers primarily consists of on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training may include:
- Air traffic control management
- Operational procedures for air traffic control
- Communications and radar procedures
- Aircraft recognition
- Take-off, landing, and ground control procedures
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- Air Traffic Controller
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Education and Training
- Public Safety and Security
- Transportation
- Customer and Personal Service
- Administrative
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
Realistic
You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.
Enterprising
You love taking risks in business or personal projects — and have the leadership skills to back it up.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test