TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controller Salary in Seattle
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$256,595/yr
Typical range: $228,937 – $279,803
P90 · 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-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $173,507 | $14,459 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $197,945 | $16,495 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 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
$256,595
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $123/hr
Next Level Target
$312,313
Principal · 14
+$56Kpotential 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 Seattle, WA?
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controllers in Seattle, WA earn approximately $257K 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 Seattle, WA?
Based on $257K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $123/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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.