Air Traffic Controller Hourly Pay in Birmingham, AL: $64.00 (2026)

When considering part-time work as an air traffic controller in Birmingham, an individual working 24 hours per week could net around $79,032 annually, in stark contrast to a full-time controller who typically works 40 hours per week. The structure of the field often necessitates overtime, with controllers frequently clocking in between 50 to 60 hours weekly, thereby significantly boosting their effective hourly compensation. Facilities may offer per diem arrangements that allow for negotiation on training shifts related to pilot facility transfers, adding to their earning potential. Controllers employed in FAA en route centers or terminal facilities might find their hourly compensation varying widely based on the type of employer, with military ATC and FAA contract towers presenting different financial dynamics. Moreover, while accepting slightly lower hourly wages at federal positions, many controllers prioritize benefits such as health insurance, thus opting for job security over higher hourly rates in a potentially less stable contracting environment. To maximize earning potential, professionals are encouraged to negotiate effectively based on the demands of Birmingham's current air traffic control job market.