Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Waipahu, HI: $100,850 (2026)

In Waipahu, entry-level air traffic controllers typically find employment opportunities with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through various hiring pathways. The FAA runs recruitment campaigns targeting individuals under the age of 31, although military veterans are afforded certain exceptions. Recent graduates may also leverage partnerships between the FAA and select universities via the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program, which can give them a competitive edge in the hiring process. Enhancing credentials is crucial in this field; prospective controllers must obtain U.S. citizenship, complete educational prerequisites, and pass the FAA’s Air Traffic Standardized Aptitude Test. Once selected, candidates complete initial training at the FAA Academy for several months, followed by facility-specific training that may take 1-3 additional years to achieve full certification. With the Federal Aviation Administration's ongoing recruitment efforts and the potential for competitive pay increases from the FG pay scale, new controllers in this field can realistically expect to see significant earnings over their first few years, particularly if they successfully navigate the challenges posed by chronic understaffing in this critical sector.