TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Air Traffic Controller Salary in Seattle
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$173,507/yr
Typical range: $146,732 – $228,937
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in Seattle
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in Seattle
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 | $124,632 | $10,386 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $153,957 | $12,830 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $173,507 | $14,459 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $197,945 | $16,495 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $256,595 | $21,383 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $312,313 | $26,026 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $326,242 | $27,187 | +162% |
Current Salary
$173,507
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $83/hr
Next Level Target
$197,945
Senior · 6
+$24Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
33/100
High Risk
+3% demand · Low AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3–5 years experience Air Traffic Controller salary in Seattle, WA?
3–5 Years Experience Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle, WA earn approximately $174K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a 3–5 years experience Air Traffic Controller make per hour in Seattle, WA?
Based on $174K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $83/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Air Traffic Controller in Seattle, WA?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in Seattle, WA earns $229K–$280K/yr.