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MarinesMOS: 5953
Air Traffic Controller
The civilian and federal jobs that hire Marines Air Traffic Controllers — with real salaries and the resume that gets callbacks.
Every 5953 has more options than a Google search will tell you. Below: career paths, BLS salary data, federal GS series, certifications by target career, and how to translate your experience without losing what made you valuable to the Marines in the first place.
Free · No credit card · Tailored resume in under 5 minutes
$48K–$137K
Salary Range
BLS-verified median salaries
14
Career Paths
12
Companies Hiring
10
Resume Examples
11
Federal GS Series
6
Certification Paths
10
FAQs Answered
BT
Brad Tachi
Navy Diver · BMR Founder
After the Navy I got hired into 6 federal career fields and tech sales, and sat on federal hiring panels along the way. I spent the last 2 years rebuilding everything I learned into BMR, tuned for how AI actually screens resumes today. This is the system I wish I'd had on day one.
60,000+ resumes built·Success stories every week
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Military Role Overview
Marine Corps Air Traffic Controllers (MOS 5953) manage the safe movement of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft in both garrison and combat environments. They work in control towers, radar approach control facilities (RAPCON), ground controlled approach (GCA) units, and direct air support centers (DASC). This is one of the few military jobs with a near-direct civilian equivalent backed by FAA certification paths.
What makes USMC controllers different from their civilian counterparts is the expeditionary mission. Marine ATC personnel deploy with the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) and set up portable air traffic control equipment in austere locations with no permanent infrastructure. They control aircraft in combat zones, handle mixed traffic of jets, helicopters, and tiltrotors, and do it all with tactical communications and mobile radar systems.
The civilian air traffic control field is one of the highest-paid careers that does not require a four-year degree. Marine controllers who earn their FAA Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate have a strong path into the FAA or contract tower positions. Those who want to leave ATC entirely bring exceptional skills in communication, decision-making under pressure, and real-time multitasking that translate well to many other fields.
The path from Marine 5953 to FAA Air Traffic Control via the Veterans Recruitment Appointment is one of the cleanest civilian transitions in the Marine Corps — and it pays $80K+ entry. From the federal hiring side, the certified controller training plus tower hours is exactly what FAA needs out of the gate. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
Security ClearanceSecret (minimum)
ASVAB RequirementGT=110
TrainingATC A-School at NAS Pensacola, FL (joint service). Approximately 12-16 weeks of classroom and simulator training. Follow-on OJT at a Marine Corps Air Station to earn facility ratings. Controllers work tower, RAPCON (radar approach control), GCA (ground controlled approach), and DASC (direct air support center) positions.
Certs Earned in ServiceFAA Control Tower Operator (CTO) certificate eligible, Marine Corps ATC facility ratings, First Aid/CPR/AED, HAZMAT awareness
Pay Reality Check
The number that matters when you're deciding what's next: how does civilian pay compare to what you make now?
Marines mid-career
$58K–$82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp (base + BAH + BAS + tax advantage)
Civilian Air Traffic Controller
$48K–$137K
BLS median across direct-match civilian roles
Federal (GS-9 to GS-13)
$58K–$120K
11 matching GS series + locality pay + step increases
+23% on average
Civilian roles for Air Traffic Controllers pay ~$16K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate (varies by location/dependents). Civilian is BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. Your real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step, and overtime.
Private Sector Career Paths
Marine Air Traffic Controllers have one of the strongest military-to-civilian career pipelines available. The FAA actively recruits veterans with ATC experience, and private contract tower companies seek out former military controllers because they arrive with live traffic experience that civilian trainees spend years building.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual wage for air traffic controllers is $137,380 (BLS 53-2021). This makes it one of the highest-paid occupations in the country. The top 10% earn more than $193,950. Airfield operations specialists earn a median of $55,830 (BLS 53-2022), and dispatchers earn $48,020 (BLS 43-5032).
The FAA hiring process has specific rules for veterans. If you are under 31 years old (or qualify for a veteran age waiver), you can apply through the FAA's prior experience hiring track. This path skips the general public bid and puts you into the FAA Academy at Oklahoma City based on your military ATC experience. Many Marine controllers also start at contract towers operated by companies like Robinson Aviation (RVA), Midwest ATC Services, or Serco while waiting for an FAA slot.
Outside of ATC, your skills transfer to aviation operations management, airline dispatch, airport management, and defense contracting roles that need people who understand airspace and aircraft operations. The military-to-civilian jobs tool can help you explore options beyond the tower.
Civilian Job Title Translations
| Civilian Job Title | Industry | BLS Median Salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Air Traffic Controller O*NET: 53-2021.00 | Aviation / Government | $137,380 | About as fast as average (3%) | strong |
Airfield Operations Specialist O*NET: 53-2022.00 | Aviation / Government | $55,830 | About as fast as average | strong |
Aviation Safety Inspector O*NET: 53-6051.00 | Government / Aviation | $80,690 | About as fast as average | strong |
Aircraft Dispatcher O*NET: 43-5032.00 | Airlines / Aviation | $48,020 | About as fast as average | strong |
Transportation Manager O*NET: 11-3071.00 | Transportation / Logistics | $99,200 | Faster than average (8%) | moderate |
Operations Manager O*NET: 11-1021.00 | Multiple Industries | $102,950 | About as fast as average | moderate |
Emergency Management Director O*NET: 11-9161.00 | Government / Public Safety | $86,130 | About as fast as average | moderate |
Logistician O*NET: 13-1081.00 | Government / Manufacturing / Transportation | $80,880 | Much faster than average (17%) | moderate |
Air Traffic Controller
Aviation / Government
$137,380median
About as fast as average (3%)
O*NET: 53-2021.00
Airfield Operations Specialist
Aviation / Government
$55,830median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 53-2022.00
Aviation Safety Inspector
Government / Aviation
$80,690median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 53-6051.00
Aircraft Dispatcher
Airlines / Aviation
$48,020median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 43-5032.00
Transportation Manager
Transportation / Logistics
$99,200median
Faster than average (8%)
O*NET: 11-3071.00
Operations Manager
Multiple Industries
$102,950median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 11-1021.00
Emergency Management Director
Government / Public Safety
$86,130median
About as fast as average
O*NET: 11-9161.00
Logistician
Government / Manufacturing / Transportation
$80,880median
Much faster than average (17%)
O*NET: 13-1081.00
Companies That Hire This Background
The primary employer for former military controllers. Apply through USAJobs during prior experience announcements. FAA pay scale often exceeds standard GS rates.
Largest contract tower operator in the US. Operates 80+ FAA contract towers. Actively recruits former military controllers. Excellent bridge to FAA or long-term career.
Major contract tower operator. Hires former military controllers for towers across the US. Competitive pay with good quality of life at smaller airports.
Operates contract towers and provides ATC services for DOD. Also has roles in aviation management, training, and operations support.
Defense contractor with aviation and airspace management contracts. Roles in systems engineering, program management, and ATC technology development.
Builds ATC radar and communications systems. Former controllers bring operational perspective to systems development, testing, and training roles.
Develops ATC simulation, training, and communications systems. Former controllers valued for subject matter expertise in product development and testing.
DOD contracts in C4ISR, intelligence, and aviation support. Controllers with clearances are strong candidates for operations and technical roles.
Hires for dispatch, operations control, and airport operations. Former controllers understand airspace, weather, and traffic flow. Strong veteran culture.
Flight dispatch, network operations, and airport management roles. Your ATC background gives you an edge in understanding airline operations from the air side.
Aviation program management, airfield operations, and safety roles at military installations. Your knowledge of military ATC operations is directly relevant.
Aviation consulting, DOD advisory, and program management roles. Former controllers bring operational credibility to aviation modernization projects.
See a salary you want? Build a resume targeting it.
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Real Marines success story
“Hey Brad, Just wanted to send out a quick thank you. You've created something amazing with BMR and your continued advocacy for transitioning service members does not go unnoticed. It was the most effective resource I used in my transition and I know it played a key role in landing a six figure…”
Dominic· Gunnery Sergeant (E-7)· Marines
→ Project ManagerFederal Career Paths
The FAA is the biggest federal employer for former Marine controllers, but it is far from the only option. Federal air traffic control positions fall under the GS-2152 series, and the FAA has its own pay scale (FG/FV bands) that often exceeds standard GS pay. Starting salaries at FAA facilities depend on facility level and location, but even entry-level developmental controllers earn well above GS-9 equivalent pay.
Beyond the FAA, several other federal paths make sense for MOS 5953 veterans:
GS-2152 Air Traffic Control Specialist (FAA): The direct match. Apply through USAJobs or the FAA's prior experience announcement. Veterans' preference applies. Facility assignments are based on experience level and facility needs. GS-7 through GS-14 equivalent on the FAA pay scale.
GS-1801 Aviation Safety Inspector: Former controllers who want to stay in aviation but leave the radar scope. Inspect facilities, evaluate procedures, and ensure compliance. Requires ATC experience. Median salary for transportation inspectors is $80,690 (BLS May 2024).
GS-2101 Transportation Specialist: Broader transportation planning and coordination roles at DOD, DOT, or DHS. Your understanding of airspace management and traffic flow is directly relevant.
GS-0301 Program Analyst / Management Analyst: Senior controllers with leadership experience fit well into program management roles at FAA, DOD, or any agency. The analytical thinking and decision-making skills from ATC are valued.
GS-0081 Fire Protection & Prevention: ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) coordination is part of ATC operations. Some controllers transition into fire protection roles at military installations or federal airports.
GS-0343 Management & Program Analysis: For controllers who led shifts, managed training programs, or supervised teams. Federal management analyst roles value the structured decision-making background.
GS-1101 General Business & Industry: Broad series that covers contracting, business operations, and industry liaison roles. Good fit for controllers who want to leave aviation entirely but stay federal.
GS-0346 Logistics Management: Controllers who managed equipment, supply chains, or deployment logistics can target this series at DOD installations.
GS-2181 Aircraft Operation: For controllers who also hold pilot ratings or want to work in flight operations management.
GS-0080 Security Administration: Airfield security and access control are part of the ATC mission. This series covers physical security, personnel security, and information security roles.
Build your federal resume at bestmilitaryresume.com/federal-resume-builder. Federal resumes are 2 pages max and follow different rules than private sector resumes. Include your hours per week, supervisor info, and facility ratings. Learn more in our guide to hours per week on federal resumes.
GS Series & Position Matches
| GS Series | Federal Job Title | Typical Grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-2152 | Air Traffic Control | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12, GS-13, GS-14 | View Details → | |
| GS-1801 | General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | View Details → | |
| GS-2101 | Transportation Specialist | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0343 | Management and Program Analyst | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | View Details → | |
| GS-0081 | Fire Protection and Prevention | GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0346 | Logistics Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0080 | Security Administration | GS-5, GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0018 | Safety and Occupational Health Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-1101 | General Business and Industry | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-1712 | Training Instruction | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → |
GS-1801
General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement
Typical grades: GS-9, GS-11, GS-12, GS-13
View Details GS-0018
Safety and Occupational Health Management
Typical grades: GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12
View Details Federal resumes follow different rules. We know them.
Federal hiring uses keyword-matching and structured experience. BMR builds federal-format resumes (USAJobs-ready) with the right keywords, hours/week, and supervisor info — for any GS series above.
Free · No credit card · Federal + civilian resume formats included
Want to Change Careers Entirely?
Not everyone wants to stay in a related field. These career paths leverage your transferable skills — leadership, risk management, logistics, project planning — in completely different industries.
Public Safety Telecommunicator
$50,730
Public Safety(O*NET: 43-5031.00)BLS OEWS May 20243% to 4% (Average)
Managing multiple simultaneous incidents in real timeCalm, decisive voice communication under pressurePrioritizing competing emergencies in secondsCoordinating responders by clear protocol
A 911 floor is a tower with a different scope. Marine controllers already juggle several aircraft, keep their voice level when it counts, and direct people who depend on every word being right.
How to get there: Most centers hire on a high school diploma plus a typing and stress-screening test, then provide on-the-job and APCO certification training.
Power Distributor and Dispatcher
$107,240
Electric Power and Utilities(O*NET: 51-8012.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-1% or lower (Decline)
Monitoring live system displays for anomaliesDecisive control actions with no margin for errorCoordinating across positions by strict protocolSustained focus across long console shifts
Running a power grid is scope-watching and split-second routing under high stakes, the same cognitive load as separating traffic. Controllers adapt to the console faster than almost any other background.
How to get there: Utilities hire on aptitude testing and provide extensive on-the-job training and NERC System Operator certification. A two-year technical degree helps.
Nuclear Power Reactor Operator
$122,610
Energy and Utilities(O*NET: 51-8011.00)BLS OEWS May 2024-1% or lower (Decline)
Continuous console and instrument monitoringStrict procedural discipline and checklistsCalm response to off-normal conditionsHigh-stakes decision-making by the book
Reactor operations reward exactly what ATC builds: total focus on a board of indicators and a procedural calm when something drifts out of limits. The military operations background is highly valued by utilities.
How to get there: Utilities hire on aptitude and provide 1-2 years of paid training toward an NRC reactor operator license. Navy nuclear experience is a fast track, but the role is open to disciplined operators.
Surgical Technologist
$62,830
Healthcare(O*NET: 29-2055.00)BLS OEWS May 20245% to 6% (Faster than average)
Tracking many moving elements at oncePrecise execution under time pressureClear closed-loop communication with a teamComposure when seconds matter
An operating room runs on the same situational awareness and crisp team comms as a control tower. Controllers who thrive on high-tempo, high-stakes focus adapt well to the surgical field.
How to get there: Complete an accredited surgical technology program (about 1-2 years) and earn the CST credential. The GI Bill covers most programs.
Respiratory Therapist
$80,450
Healthcare(O*NET: 29-1126.00)BLS OEWS May 20247% or higher (Much faster than average)
Monitoring patient vitals and reacting fastDecisive intervention in critical momentsCalm under life-or-death pressureClear handoffs and status communication
Respiratory therapy in an ICU is the medical version of controlling traffic: watch the readouts, catch the trend early, act before it becomes a crisis. The temperament transfers directly.
How to get there: Earn an associate or bachelor degree in respiratory therapy and pass the NBRC exam for state licensure. The GI Bill covers the degree.
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agent
$78,140
Finance(O*NET: 41-3031.00)BLS OEWS May 20243% to 4% (Average)
Reading multiple live data feeds simultaneouslyFast, confident decisions under pressureComposure during volatile, high-stakes momentsConcise communication of complex information
A trading desk is several screens, constant movement, and decisions measured in seconds, the same load a controller carries every shift. That tolerance for high-tempo pressure is rare and valuable on Wall Street.
How to get there: Pass the SIE plus Series 7 and 63 exams (sponsored by a hiring firm). A finance background helps but disciplined high-pressure performers are recruited from many fields.
Pivoting industries? You don't need to start from scratch.
The skills that made you a good Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Soldier transfer further than you think. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the pivot careers above — without making you sound like you've never done the work.
Free · No credit card · Try unlimited career angles
Skills Translation Guide
If you are applying to FAA positions or contract tower jobs, you probably do not need this section. They know what RAPCON means. They know what a GCA is.
But if you are applying outside of aviation, the hiring manager has no idea what "DASC controller" means. Below are translations that reframe your MOS 5953 experience into language that works in non-aviation industries. These are not just word swaps. They show how to present your experience with numbers and context that a hiring manager in any field can understand.
Resume Bullet Examples
Before (Military)
Controlled radar approach operations for 15+ aircraft per hour in mixed VFR/IFR conditions at MCAS Cherry Point RAPCON
After (Civilian)
Managed real-time coordination of 15+ simultaneous operations per hour, making time-critical routing decisions while maintaining full compliance with federal safety regulations and zero incidents over 18-month period
Before (Military)
Performed 200+ ground controlled approaches in IMC conditions, maintaining voice contact and radar monitoring throughout each approach to minimums
After (Civilian)
Delivered 200+ precision guidance sequences in low-visibility conditions, maintaining continuous communication and real-time monitoring to ensure safe completion of each critical operation
Before (Military)
Served as tower watch supervisor for 8-controller team, managing all tower, ground, and clearance delivery positions during 12-hour shifts
After (Civilian)
Supervised 8-person operations team across multiple work positions during 12-hour shifts, maintaining real-time quality oversight, resolving conflicts, and exercising direct stop-work authority for safety
Before (Military)
Operated as DASC controller during Exercise Steel Knight, coordinating 30+ sorties per day across fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tiltrotor platforms with ground units
After (Civilian)
Coordinated allocation of 30+ daily resources across multiple platforms and stakeholder groups in a field environment, maintaining real-time communication with 6 separate teams and adjusting priorities based on changing conditions
Before (Military)
Deployed with MACS-2 to establish expeditionary MATCS facility in 48 hours, including AN/TPN-22 radar, radios, and portable tower operations supporting 100+ daily aircraft movements
After (Civilian)
Led rapid deployment of critical communications infrastructure at a remote site, completing full system installation and operational testing within 48 hours and supporting 100+ daily operations from day one
Before (Military)
Controlled mixed traffic of F/A-18s, MV-22s, CH-53Es, and transient civilian aircraft in Class D airspace with active pattern work
After (Civilian)
Managed 4+ simultaneous workflow types with different speed, priority, and handling requirements, continuously reprioritizing to maintain throughput while preventing conflicts and meeting all safety standards
Before (Military)
Managed facility OJT program for 12 developmental controllers, tracking progress on 15 position certifications and conducting quarterly evaluations
After (Civilian)
Directed technical training program for 12 employees, managing progress across 15 certification tracks, conducting quarterly performance evaluations, and achieving 92% first-time certification pass rate
Before (Military)
Handled 15+ in-flight emergencies including engine failures, hydraulic malfunctions, and fuel emergencies, coordinating ARFF response and clearing airspace within 30 seconds of declaration
After (Civilian)
Coordinated 15+ emergency responses, activating response teams within 30 seconds, clearing operational areas, maintaining communication with affected parties, and managing the situation through resolution with zero loss incidents
Before (Military)
Issued and managed NOTAMs for MCAS Miramar, coordinating runway closures, construction activities, and airspace restrictions with base operations and 3 tenant squadrons
After (Civilian)
Managed operational status communications across the organization, coordinating scheduled and unscheduled service disruptions with 3 internal departments and external stakeholders, ensuring 100% notification compliance
Before (Military)
Coordinated maintenance scheduling for AN/TPN-22 radar, TACAN, ILS, and UHF/VHF radio systems with MACS-2 comm/nav technicians, minimizing operational downtime
After (Civilian)
Coordinated preventive and corrective maintenance for 8+ critical technology systems with technical support teams, scheduling work windows to minimize operational impact and maintaining 98% system availability
Get bullets like these auto-generated for your resume.
BMR turns your 5953 duties and accomplishments into civilian bullets that match the job you're applying for — no manual translation, no rewriting.
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Certifications by Career Path
Which certifications you need depends on where you're headed. Find your target career path below.
Aviation Operations
FAA Control Tower Operator (CTO) Certificate
RequiredFAA
Cost: $0 - $150 (application fee)Time: 2-4 weeks processing
FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate
RequiredFAA
Cost: $3,000 - $6,000 (school + exam)Time: 4-6 weeks at dispatch schoolGI Bill Eligible
Contract Tower Qualification
RequiredRobinson Aviation / Midwest ATC / Serco
Cost: $0 (employer-provided training)Time: 2-4 months OJT
Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)
BeneficialAAAE
Cost: $350 - $500 examTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
FAA Academy Completion
RequiredFAA
Cost: $0 (paid training)Time: 3-5 months at FAA Academy
Emergency Management
Certified Emergency Manager (CEM)
RecommendedIAEM
Cost: $250 - $375 examTime: 3-6 months study
FEMA Professional Development Series
BeneficialFEMA Emergency Management Institute
Cost: Free (online)Time: 2-4 weeks
Federal Employment
Federal Resume + USAJobs Profile
RequiredN/A
Cost: Free (build at bestmilitaryresume.com)Time: 1-2 hours
GIS & Geospatial
APICS CSCP
RecommendedASCM (formerly APICS)
Cost: $1,500 - $2,500Time: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Operations Management
OSHA 30-Hour General Industry
RecommendedOSHA
Cost: $150 - $300Time: 4 days (available online)
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
RecommendedASQ or IASSC
Cost: $300 - $500Time: 2-4 monthsGI Bill Eligible
Project Management
Project Management Professional (PMP)
RecommendedPMI
Cost: $400 - $600Time: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Got a cert? Don't bury it. List it the right way.
The wrong placement can sink an otherwise strong application. BMR knows where each cert ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it for ATS keyword matching and hiring manager attention.
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Transition Resources
For Staying in Air Traffic Control
FAA Prior Experience Hiring: The FAA runs periodic announcements for experienced controllers. Watch USAJobs and the FAA careers page for "prior experience" bids. You must apply during the open window. The age limit is 31, but veterans with prior ATC experience may qualify for an age waiver. Do not miss these windows.
Contract Tower Companies: Robinson Aviation (RVA), Midwest ATC Services, and Serco operate FAA contract towers across the country. These are excellent stepping stones while waiting for an FAA bid, or full careers on their own. Pay is lower than FAA but still strong. Many hire directly from the military.
FAA CTI Program Credit: Your military ATC training may count toward CTI (Collegiate Training Initiative) equivalency. Check with the FAA and the AT-CTI program for current guidance on military credit.
NATCA (National Air Traffic Controllers Association): The union for FAA controllers. Join once you are hired. They also have resources for military controllers transitioning to the FAA.
For Careers Outside of Air Traffic Control
SkillBridge: If you have 180+ days left on your contract, you may qualify for DOD SkillBridge. This lets you work full-time at a civilian company while still drawing military pay. Search the SkillBridge database for aviation, logistics, or operations internships.
Project Management (PMP): The PMP certification from PMI is valued across every industry. Senior controllers who managed shifts, training programs, or equipment upgrades likely have enough documented hours to qualify. Cost is about $555 for PMI members. GI Bill covers some prep courses.
Airline Dispatch: The FAA Aircraft Dispatcher certificate is a natural fit for controllers. Dispatchers plan flights, monitor weather, and coordinate with ATC. Several dispatch schools accept GI Bill. It is a quicker path than waiting for an FAA controller slot.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile 6 months before separation. Use the veterans filter. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours free at bestmilitaryresume.com.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. You get paired with someone in your target industry. Completely free for veterans.
Education Benefits: Your GI Bill covers professional certifications, degree programs, and prep courses. Verify program approval with the GI Bill Comparison Tool before enrolling.
Clearance Value: If you hold an active Secret or higher, that saves employers thousands of dollars and months of processing. Defense contractors and federal agencies actively seek cleared candidates. Use ClearanceJobs.com to find positions. Do not let your clearance lapse during transition.
SFL-TAP / Transition Resources: Review the SFL-TAP transition guide for timeline planning and checklists.
Related Career Pages
Army 15Q Air Traffic Control Operator | Air Force 1C3X1 Command Post | Navy OS (Operations Specialist)
BMR Career Resources
Jobs for Veterans by MOS | Federal Resume With No Civilian Experience | SkillBridge Programs by Industry | Build Your Resume Free
Your 30 / 60 / 90-Day Transition Plan
Most veterans do this backwards — they wait until terminal leave to start, then panic. Here's the actual sequence that works.
1Days 0–30
Set the foundation
- Pull your DD-214 (request from Milconnect if separated)
- List your top 3 civilian roles AND top 3 GS series
- Build your tailored 5953 resume — BMR does it free
- Write 1 strong LinkedIn headline (not "veteran seeking opportunities")
- Pull together your evals/performance reports for accomplishments
2Days 30–60
Apply with intent
- Apply to 5–10 jobs/week — quality over quantity
- Tailor every resume to the job description (BMR auto-tailors)
- Connect with 5 people/week on LinkedIn (not a spray)
- Set up a USAJobs profile and a saved-search alert for your GS series
- Practice translating your military bullets out loud — explain to a civilian friend
3Days 60–90
Close the offer
- Track every application — date, status, contact, notes
- Follow up 7–10 days after each application
- Prep for behavioral interviews using the STAR method
- Negotiate salary — don't take the first offer (BLS median is your floor)
- Stay applying even after one offer — leverage = options
Print this. Tape it to your monitor. Veterans who treat the transition like a 90-day op get hired faster than the ones who treat it like an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Marine controllers go straight to the FAA?
Yes, but only through specific hiring windows. The FAA runs prior experience announcements on USAJobs for veterans with ATC experience. You must apply during the open window. There is an age limit of 31, but veterans with prior military ATC experience may qualify for an age waiver. Once selected, you attend the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. The process can take 6-18 months from application to academy date.
What is the salary for FAA air traffic controllers?
According to BLS May 2024 data, the median annual wage for air traffic controllers is $137,380 (SOC 53-2021). The top 10% earn more than $193,950. FAA pay depends on facility level. High-traffic facilities like Chicago TRACON or New York TRACON pay significantly more than smaller towers. Starting developmental controllers still earn well above most entry-level jobs.
What if I miss the FAA age cutoff?
The general age limit is 31, but veterans with prior ATC experience can apply for an age waiver. If you do not qualify for the waiver, contract tower companies (Robinson Aviation, Midwest ATC, Serco) have no age limit. You can also target aviation safety inspector roles (GS-1801) at the FAA, which have no age restriction and value your ATC background. Airport operations, airline dispatch, and aviation management roles are other strong options with no age limit.
Do my Marine ATC ratings transfer to the FAA?
Your military facility ratings do not directly transfer, but they count as qualifying experience on FAA prior experience bids. You will still need to complete FAA Academy training and earn FAA ratings at your assigned facility. The good news is that your live traffic experience puts you ahead of candidates who only have simulator time. Many former military controllers complete FAA certification faster than ab initio trainees.
What is a contract tower and should I consider one?
Contract towers are FAA-certified air traffic control towers operated by private companies instead of FAA employees. About 250 towers in the US are contract-operated. Pay is lower than FAA (typically $60,000-$90,000 depending on location and experience) but still solid. Many Marine controllers use contract towers as a bridge while waiting for an FAA bid. Some stay at contract towers long-term for the quality of life, since these are usually at smaller, lower-stress airports.
Is my security clearance valuable outside ATC?
Yes. An active Secret or higher clearance saves employers thousands of dollars and months of processing time. Defense contractors, federal agencies, and some aviation companies require clearances. Sites like ClearanceJobs.com list positions that need active clearances. Your clearance stays active for up to 24 months after separation if not renewed, so start your job search before it expires.
How does Veterans Preference work for federal ATC jobs?
Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Disabled veterans get 10 points. You need your DD-214 (Member 4 copy) and SF-15 form. For FAA positions specifically, the prior experience hiring track is separate from the general public bid, and your military experience is the qualifying factor. Start your federal resume at bestmilitaryresume.com. Federal resumes follow different rules than private sector resumes.
What certifications should I get before separating?
For FAA careers: make sure your military ATC training records are complete and documented. Get your CTO (Control Tower Operator) certificate if eligible. For non-ATC careers: PMP for project management, OSHA 30 for safety roles, or FAA Aircraft Dispatcher certificate for airline dispatch. For any federal job: build your USAJobs profile and federal resume 6 months before separation. Universal: keep your First Aid/CPR current.
Can I start job searching while still on active duty?
Yes, and you should. Start 12 months before your EAS. At 180 days out, check if you qualify for DOD SkillBridge to work at a civilian company while still earning military pay. At minimum: have your resume ready 6 months out, start networking on LinkedIn 6 months out, apply to federal positions 6 months out (federal hiring is slow), and watch for FAA prior experience announcements. Use terminal leave as your transition runway.
What if I want to leave aviation entirely?
Many former controllers succeed in completely different fields. Strong non-aviation paths include project management (BLS median $98,580), operations management ($102,950), logistics ($80,880), safety management ($83,910), and transportation management ($99,200). Your real-time decision-making, communication under pressure, team coordination, and multitasking skills are valued in many industries. See the Career Change Paths and Skills Translation sections for specifics on reframing your experience.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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