TransportationGovernment / OECD · 96/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controller Salary in Sydney
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$198,106/yr
Typical range: $176,752 – $216,024
P90 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in Sydney
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in Sydney
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 | $96,223 | $8,019 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $118,863 | $9,905 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $133,957 | $11,163 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $152,824 | $12,735 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $198,106 | $16,509 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $241,123 | $20,094 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $251,877 | $20,990 | +162% |
Current Salary
$198,106
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $95/hr
Next Level Target
$241,123
Principal · 14
+$43Kpotential 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 Sydney, Australia?
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controllers in Sydney, Australia earn approximately $198K 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 Sydney, Australia?
Based on $198K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $95/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Air Traffic Controller in Sydney, Australia?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in Sydney, Australia earns $177K–$216K/yr.