Air Traffic Controller Hourly Pay in Clovis, CA: $84.55 (2026)

When evaluating the earning potential for part-time air traffic controllers in Clovis, it's clear that even a part-time schedule can yield impressive returns. A controller working 24 hours a week at the 2026 median rate can expect a solid income without compromising too much on their work-life balance. Furthermore, the nature of air traffic control allows for lucrative per diem pay in agency positions, where overtime is not only common but often essential due to staffing shortages at various facilities. Many controllers work 50-60 hours per week, significantly driving their overall compensation beyond the base hourly rate. Hourly wages can also differ depending on employment type, with federal FAA facilities providing structured salaries, while contract towers may offer flexibility at a different pay scale. Controllers must weigh these factors, as some might prefer the steady benefits of employment with the FAA versus the potentially higher hourly pay at contract towers without standard benefits. For those negotiating their pay, knowledge of the local market and awareness of the demands in these varied environments can serve as essential tools in achieving fair compensation.