TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controller Salary in Boston
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$235,182/yr
Typical range: $209,832 – $256,453
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in Boston
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in Boston
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $114,231 | $9,519 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $141,109 | $11,759 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $159,028 | $13,252 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $181,426 | $15,119 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $235,182 | $19,599 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $286,250 | $23,854 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $299,017 | $24,918 | +162% |
Current Salary
$235,182
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $113/hr
Next Level Target
$286,250
Principal · 14
+$51Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Air Traffic Controller salary in Boston, MA?
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controllers in Boston, MA earn approximately $235K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Boston, MA?
Based on $235K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $113/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Air Traffic Controller in Boston, MA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in Boston, MA earns $210K–$256K/yr.