Air traffic controllers are responsible for monitoring and directing the movement of airplanes, helicopters, and recreational aircraft within a designated zone. They also send information to such aircraft and regulate the movement of aircraft and service vehicles on the ground at an airport. Air traffic controllers work at airports and enroute centres that track and assist aircraft movement. They are employed by the federal government.
Assessing and communicating information is your key duty as an air traffic controller. You have to rely on radar, radio equipment, and vision to gauge and direct air traffic in an orderly and safe fashion. Take-off and landing procedures are relayed to flight crews, in addition to other necessary information such as weather reports and navigational instructions.
Pay for this job is based on a salary which increases with experience. Employee benefits for this occupation are good.
Maintaining a safe environment for aircraft both within your designated airspace and on the ground demands clear communication. Conveying information to flight crews, sustaining contact with ground service staff, and contacting emergency crews in the event of a crisis are all part of your duties as an air traffic controller.
Training for this job is extensive and demanding. Firstly, you attend a training school program for a 6-8 month period where you are given instruction in all aspects of air traffic control. Classroom training is combined with simulated exercises to help develop your skills.
Once classroom training is completed, you are placed in a probationary position for a period of 3 - 18 months until your on-the-job training is complete. If you successfully complete this phase of training, you are then placed wherever your services may be required. Once you have gained enough experience, you may move into supervisory roles within the air traffic control operation.
Since most air traffic control services operate on a 24-hour basis, you must be flexible to accommodate shift work. While air traffic controllers may be placed in positions anywhere in Canada, they are normally sent to operations within the region from which they applied. In case your posting is not close to home, you should be ready to work almost anywhere.
If you are interested in this profession, you should be decisive and able to cope with stressful situations. Airports with heavier traffic flows require that air traffic controllers be highly organized and be able to concentrate for extended periods of time. Furthermore, high volume airports have teams of air traffic controllers working together, so communication must flow easily and directly. The ability to visualize in three dimensions is often an acquired skill and it is particularly useful in this occupation.
162 Cleopatra Drive
Nepean, Ont. K2G 5X2
Tel: (613) 225-3553
It should be noted that Transport Canada opens air traffic controller positions to competition. When competition opens, notices are posted at Canada Employment Centres across the country.