TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
3–5 Years Experience Air Traffic Controller Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Professionals with 3–5 years building toward senior-level expertise.
$175,268/yr
Typical range: $148,221 – $231,260
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Air Traffic Controller salary by experience level in Washington DC
Air Traffic Controller Salary Progression in Washington DC
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 | $125,897 | $10,491 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $155,519 | $12,960 | +24% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $175,268 | $14,606 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $199,953 | $16,663 | +59% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $259,199 | $21,600 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $315,482 | $26,290 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $329,553 | $27,463 | +162% |
Current Salary
$175,268
3–5 Years Experience · 3–5 years
Hourly: $84/hr
Next Level Target
$199,953
Senior · 6
+$25Kpotential 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 Washington DC, DC?
3–5 Years Experience Air Traffic Controllers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $175K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $175K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $84/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from 3–5 years experience to senior Air Traffic Controller in Washington DC, DC?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Air Traffic Controller in Washington DC, DC earns $231K–$283K/yr.