Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Oak Ridge, TN: $79,344 (2026)

Employers such as the FAA are key players in recruiting new air traffic controllers in Oak Ridge, especially through their off-the-street hiring announcements, which require applicants to be under age 31 unless they are veterans. The FAA also has partnerships with universities through the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program, facilitating pathways for new graduates. To enhance starting pay in Tennessee, candidates must meet eligibility criteria that include US citizenship, a degree, or a combination of education and experience, and they must pass the FAA Air Traffic Standardized Aptitude Test (ATSA). Initial FAA Academy training lasts 3-5 months, followed by facility-specific training, and salaries typically increase as controllers earn their full certification. The growth potential within this field is considerable, especially as federal employees function on the FG pay scale, which enables top-tier en route facilities to offer base salaries ranging from $130k to $180k, with total compensation potentially exceeding $200k due to overtime and shift differentials. Realistically, new grads in their first few years may see salary increases that align with performance and operational needs, making Oak Ridge a viable launchpad for a fulfilling career in air traffic control.