The role of an air traffic controller is to ensure the safe landing and takeoff of aircraft within in an airport by giving signals and instructions to pilots. The job requires a high level of concentration and the ideal candidate for this work must be level-headed and patient
The typical day-to-day duties of an air traffic controller include: keeping in contact with aircraft through radio or radar, directing aircraft, instructing aircraft pilots when to descend or climb and giving detailed weather information. The job is ideally suited to someone with a good numeracy skills and technical abilities.
The minimum requirement for this job is 5 GCSEs. Some candidates will have a degree or HND, though this is not always necessary. Air traffic controllers can expect to earn anywhere between £29,000 and £49,000 per year in the UK, depending on experience and skills. Many bump up these earnings through generous bonus schemes.