TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1000–2 years
Entry Level Air Traffic Controller Salary in Chicago
2026 · Recent graduates and professionals with under 2 years of experience.
$103,278/yr
Typical range: $99,487 – $121,592
P10–P25 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in Chicago
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EntryThis page | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $103,278 | $8,607 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $127,579 | $10,632 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $143,780 | $11,982 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $164,030 | $13,669 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $212,632 | $17,719 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $258,804 | $21,567 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $270,346 | $22,529 | +162% |
Current Salary
$103,278
Entry Level · 0–2 years
Hourly: $50/hr
Next Level Target
$127,579
Junior · 2
+$24Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry level Air Traffic Controller salary in Chicago, IL?
Entry Level Air Traffic Controllers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $103K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P10–P25 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a entry level Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $103K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $50/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from entry level to senior Air Traffic Controller in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 4–6 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in Chicago, IL earns $190K–$232K/yr.