Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Arlington, MA: $94,157 (2026)

Employers seeking fresh air traffic control graduates in Arlington include the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which periodically opens recruitment windows specifically designed for new candidates, often targeting individuals under 31 years old unless they are military veterans. Graduates should also consider FAA partnerships through the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program, which heightens employability for applicants from select universities. To enhance potential salaries in Massachusetts, candidates are encouraged to pursue critical credentials such as U.S. citizenship, passing the FAA Air Traffic Standardized Aptitude Test (ATSA), and completing the Initial Qualification Training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. Here, trainees typically undergo an extensive course of 3 to 5 months, followed by facility-specific training lasting 1-3 years. Building a solid career strategy during the first few years is crucial given that FAA controllers operate on the FG pay scale. Although starting salaries may seem modest, many experienced controllers at high-demand facilities see significantly increased earnings, with the possibility of total compensation reaching into the $200,000-$300,000 range as experience is gained and overtime becomes available. Understanding these dynamics can aid new hires in navigating their career paths effectively in the air traffic control profession in Arlington and beyond.