How To Become A Traffic Controller: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (2024)

Key steps to become a traffic controller

1. Explore traffic controller education requirements

   The educational requirements for a traffic controller are a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as specialized training or certification in traffic control. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, traffic controllers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and receive on-the-job training from their employers. Some states also require traffic controllers to have a certification, such as the Flagger or Traffic Control Technician certification.

   As for higher education, while a college degree is not typically required for a career as a traffic controller, some traffic controllers may choose to pursue a degree in a related field, such as business or criminal justice. According to a report by the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, some traffic controllers may also choose to pursue a certification in OSHA safety or a commercial driver's license. Ultimately, the educational requirements for a traffic controller may vary depending on the specific job and location.

   Most common traffic controller degrees

   High School Diploma

   41.3

   %

   Bachelor's

   21.0

   %

   Associate

   18.5

   %

2. Start to develop specific traffic controller skills

   A traffic controller's main priority is safety. They set up traffic control devices like signs, cones, and barriers according to state regulations and company policies. They also manage unexpected events and emergencies, directing traffic into parking destinations and monitoring traffic flow.

   Skills	Percentages
   Construction Sites	13.33%
   DOT	10.29%
   Safety Regulations	10.15%
   Safety Procedures	7.43%
   Direct Traffic	6.74%

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3. Complete relevant traffic controller training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 2-4 years on post-employment, on-the-job training. New traffic controllers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a traffic controller based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real traffic controller resumes.

4. Gain additional traffic controller certifications

   Traffic controller certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific traffic controller certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

   The most common certifications for traffic controllers include Flagger (Instructor) and OSHA Safety Certificate .

   More About Certifications

5. Research traffic controller duties and responsibilities

   A traffic controller's main responsibility is maintaining safety guidelines according to company policies. They set up and manage traffic control devices to ensure public and worker safety, while also directing traffic into parking destinations and managing unexpected events and emergency situations. As Billy Metallinos, a Lecturer at the Business & Economics Department of York College of the City University of New York, puts it, "the demand for qualified personnel will remain ensuring a need for the current certifications, licenses, courses, and I would add perhaps even more are necessary to keep up with the dynamic needs and new technologies evolving in aviation."

   • Lead team providing cargo, personal property and passenger movements for DoD personnel.
   • Provide support for traffic control set-ups within ATSSA compliance and regulations.
   • Control air and grind traffic movement for private, commercial, and military aircraft in IFR and VFR conditions.
   • Ensure compliance with FAA, USAF, ANG and all local directives.

6. Prepare your traffic controller resume

   When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your traffic controller resume.

   You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a traffic controller resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

   Choose From 10+ Customizable Traffic Controller Resume templates

   Build a professional

   Traffic Controller

   resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume.

   Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Traffic Controller resume.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

7. Apply for traffic controller jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a traffic controller job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams

How do traffic controllers rate their job?

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.