Entry-Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Seattle, WA: $99,124 (2026)

In Seattle, various employers actively recruit new graduates for air traffic controller positions, with the FAA being the primary hiring agency. They often conduct periodic recruitment campaigns aimed at candidates under the age of 31, while also offering pathways for military veterans through the Veterans Recruitment Authority. Graduates from FAA's Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program may find themselves at a distinct advantage during the hiring process. To enhance earning potential, prospective controllers should aim to fulfill FAA requirements, such as obtaining a bachelor's degree or demonstrating three years of relevant experience combined with passing the FAA Air Traffic Standardized Aptitude Test (ATSA). Once employed, controllers advance through Initial Qualification Training at the FAA Academy and subsequent facility-specific training that cements their career path within the FAA's FG pay scale. Realistic growth expectations for salaries during the first one to three years center around the nuances of recruiting practices and the federal structure of pay, emphasizing that consistent performance can lead to a significant increase in salary over time in a profession marked by mandatory retirement at age 56 and a strong union representation through NATCA.