Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Mansfield, TX: $82,334 (2026)

In Mansfield, key employers primarily include the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which operates under strict recruitment criteria, recruiting new controllers through various channels such as off-the-street hiring and collegiate training partnerships. Graduates must meet age requirements, with candidates typically applying before the age limit of 31 unless they are military veterans. Those with proper credentials, such as a bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience, enhance their competitiveness, and passing the FAA Air Traffic Standardized Aptitude Test is crucial for success. A successful career trajectory in this field often involves on-the-job training periods that can last several years, with the potential for income growth that dramatically increases at top-tier en route facilities. Realistically, newcomers can expect to see significant salary growth during their first few years, especially in light of the FAA's continued push to address staffing shortages, which leads to ample overtime opportunities. As members of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), controllers benefit from advocacy that helps ensure competitive pay and support throughout their careers, further solidifying the appeal of an entry-level role in Mansfield.