TransportationOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controller Salary in Washington DC
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$264,033/yr
Typical range: $235,573 – $287,914
P90 · 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 | $128,245 | $10,687 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $158,420 | $13,202 | +24% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $178,537 | $14,878 | +39% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $203,683 | $16,974 | +59% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $264,033 | $22,003 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $321,366 | $26,781 | +151% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $335,699 | $27,975 | +162% |
Current Salary
$264,033
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $127/hr
Next Level Target
$321,366
Principal · 14
+$57Kpotential 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 Washington DC, DC?
Staff / Lead Air Traffic Controllers in Washington DC, DC earn approximately $264K 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 Washington DC, DC?
Based on $264K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $127/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead 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 $236K–$288K/yr.