Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Easley, SC: $74,638 (2026)

For those hopeful to gain employment in air traffic control roles in Easley, several key employers, such as the FAA, are primary recruiters. They often conduct public bid windows for 'off-the-street' hiring and prioritize applicants under 31 years old unless they are military veterans. Additionally, the FAA’s Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) provides pathways for recent graduates from affiliated universities, offering an accelerated entry into the field. Securing credentials is vital for new controllers; candidates need U.S. citizenship, a bachelor’s degree or three years of progressive work experience, and successful completion of the FAA Air Traffic Standardized Aptitude Test (ATSA). Following acceptance, trainees typically undergo a paid program at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, which spans 3-5 months, followed by facility-specific training lasting 1-3 years. Strategies for career advancement in this field focus on understanding the pay scale, especially given that FAA controllers are classified under the FG pay sector. Early-career salaries can steadily increase over time, particularly if one takes advantage of overtime opportunities driven by ongoing staffing shortages in the industry.