Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the high-stakes world of air traffic control, the responsibility of the shift manager is paramount.

As air travel continues to soar, the demand for proficient leaders who can effectively manage, coordinate, and ensure the safety of our airways becomes increasingly crucial.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate operations of air traffic control,

You’ve landed at the right place.

Today, we roll out a customizable Air Traffic Control Shift Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s take flight and explore it.

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Air Traffic Control Shift Managers are essential for the smooth running of airports and air traffic systems.

They are responsible for coordinating the movement of aircrafts, ensuring safety, and managing the operations of air traffic controllers during a particular shift.

The duties and responsibilities of an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager include:

• Supervising the operations of air traffic control personnel during assigned shifts
• Coordinating the movement of aircraft to ensure their safe and efficient departure and arrival
• Monitoring and managing air traffic within a designated airspace
• Interpreting and implementing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and procedures
• Identifying and responding to emergency situations quickly and appropriately
• Communicating vital information to pilots, including weather updates, runway closures, and other critical data
• Maintaining constant communication with other air traffic control centers
• Planning and implementing air traffic control training programs
• Managing shift schedules, ensuring adequate staffing levels, and conducting performance evaluations
• Keeping detailed records of daily operations and incidents

 

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and reliable Air Traffic Control Shift Manager to oversee the operations of our busy air traffic control center during specific shifts.

The responsibilities of the Air Traffic Control Shift Manager include managing air traffic control teams, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

Our ideal candidate has previous experience in air traffic control, excellent leadership skills, and is capable of making quick, informed decisions in high-stress situations.

 

Responsibilities

• Overseeing day-to-day operations of air traffic control teams during assigned shifts
• Coordinating with other shift managers for smooth transition of responsibilities
• Ensuring compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and guidelines
• Managing and resolving operational issues swiftly and efficiently
• Maintaining communication with flight crews, dispatchers, and ground personnel
• Providing regular shift reports and updates to senior management
• Training and mentoring air traffic control staff
• Ensuring the highest standards of safety are maintained at all times

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Air Traffic Controller or similar role
• Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• Experience in managing and leading a team
• Outstanding decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Good physical health and eyesight
• Willingness to work in shifts, during weekends, and holidays

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Shift premiums

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Air Traffic Control Shift Manager
• Work Environment: This role requires working in a high-stress, fast-paced air traffic control center.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Air Traffic Control Center Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $92,000 minimum to $135,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Do?

Air Traffic Control Shift Managers play a critical role in the aviation industry, ensuring the safe, efficient, and organized flow of air traffic in and around airports.

They oversee the operations of the air traffic control tower during specific shifts, managing the team of air traffic controllers.

They coordinate with other shift managers to ensure seamless transitions between shifts.

Their primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of all aircraft within their airspace.

They instruct aircraft on when and where to take off and land, monitor aircraft in flight, and guide them on safe routes.

They also manage emergencies by coordinating with pilots, airport staff, and emergency services.

They may be involved in planning flight paths, considering factors like weather conditions and flight schedules.

Air Traffic Control Shift Managers also ensure compliance with FAA regulations and procedures.

They may be responsible for training new controllers, evaluating the performance of their team, and implementing any necessary changes to improve efficiency and safety.

They work in high-stress environments, making quick decisions to avoid any potential collisions and to deal with unexpected situations such as adverse weather conditions or technical issues.

 

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Air Traffic Control Shift Manager should possess a variety of skills and qualifications to efficiently manage air traffic and ensure the safety of all aircraft in their designated airspace.

These include:

• Extensive knowledge and understanding of air traffic control procedures, laws, and regulations to ensure accurate and efficient management of air traffic
• Strong decision-making skills to make fast-paced decisions that could affect the safety and schedule of flights
• Excellent communication skills to clearly convey instructions and information to pilots, ground crew, and other air traffic controllers
• Proven leadership and team management skills to effectively lead a team of air traffic controllers and ensure smooth operation of the control tower
• High stress tolerance and emotional resilience to handle the high-pressure environment and unexpected situations that can arise in air traffic control
• Superior attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple flights simultaneously, keep track of flight plans, and monitor equipment and systems
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and resolve issues that could potentially affect flights or safety
• Physical stamina and good hearing and vision, as the role can involve long periods of standing, and it’s essential to hear and interpret incoming audio messages and monitor visual displays

 

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Experience Requirements

Air Traffic Control Shift Managers typically need several years of experience in air traffic control before stepping into a managerial role.

Generally, this involves at least 3 to 5 years of experience as an Air Traffic Controller.

Entry-level candidates often start their careers with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or a similar aviation agency, where they receive comprehensive training and gain practical experience under the supervision of experienced Air Traffic Controllers.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience are often capable of independently managing air traffic, dealing with complex situations, and maintaining communication with pilots.

This experience is crucial in acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the responsibilities of an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have developed solid crisis management, decision-making, and leadership skills.

These professionals may also have experience in training and supervising less experienced controllers, which is a key part of the role of an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager.

Moreover, the FAA often requires that Air Traffic Control Shift Managers have maintained their air traffic control certification, which involves ongoing education and training throughout their career.

In addition to these experience requirements, a Shift Manager must be able to work under pressure, make quick decisions, and efficiently manage the air traffic control team during their shift.

 

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Education and Training Requirements

Air Traffic Control Shift Managers typically require a bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field, although some individuals may qualify for this role through significant experience in air traffic control.

They also need to have completed the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program or have previous air traffic control experience.

Before working independently, they must complete a training course at the FAA academy, and then further on-the-job training.

This involves learning the specific protocols and procedures of the control tower or center where they will be working.

A prerequisite for this role is the successful completion of the FAA’s Air Traffic Control Specialist examination, which tests the individual’s ability to perform under high-stress conditions, their understanding of aviation and their ability to make quick decisions.

Some shift managers may also have a background in military air traffic control.

In addition to these academic and professional qualifications, aspiring Air Traffic Control Shift Managers must be US citizens, should be younger than 31 years of age when they apply, and must be able to pass a medical examination, a security investigation and have English language proficiency.

Ongoing training and skill updates are a critical part of the role, due to the fast-paced evolution of technology in aviation.

 

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Salary Expectations

An Air Traffic Control Shift Manager earns an average salary of $89,370 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can significantly vary based on factors such as years of experience, certifications, location, and the size of the airport they are managing.

 

Air Traffic Control Shift Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager need?

An Air Traffic Control Shift Manager needs to have strong leadership and communication skills to manage the team effectively.

They also need to have excellent decision-making skills to make quick and accurate decisions, as well as strong problem-solving skills.

Further, they must be detail-oriented and able to work in high-stress situations.

 

Do Air Traffic Control Shift Managers need a degree?

Most Air Traffic Control Shift Managers need to have a bachelor’s degree in aviation or a related field.

They also need to complete the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative Program (AT-CTI) and pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams.

 

What should you look for in an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager resume?

Firstly, you should look for a relevant degree and any certifications from FAA.

Also, check their work experience in air traffic control.

Look for any leadership or managerial roles they have held and any crisis situations they have successfully managed.

It’s beneficial to have someone with a solid understanding of aviation regulations and procedures.

 

What qualities make a good Air Traffic Control Shift Manager?

A good Air Traffic Control Shift Manager must be able to stay calm and make quick decisions under pressure.

They should have strong leadership skills to guide their team and excellent communication skills to ensure clear and precise instructions.

Attention to detail is crucial in this role, and they must have the ability to focus on multiple tasks at once.

 

What is the most challenging part of being an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager?

One of the most challenging parts of being an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager is handling the high-stress environment.

They must make split-second decisions that can have significant consequences.

Additionally, managing a team under such conditions and ensuring everyone performs their duties accurately can also be challenging.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the inner workings of the role of an Air Traffic Control Shift Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about monitoring flights.

It’s about orchestrating the dance of the skies, one flight at a time.

With our handy Air Traffic Control Shift Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re geared up to soar.

But why just hover there?

Ascend further with our job description generator. It’s your ticket to creating laser-precise job postings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every flight is a part of the larger symphony.

Let’s choreograph the skies. Together.

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