The role of an Air Traffic Controller is one of the most vital and respected within aviation. As the backbone of safe and efficient air travel, Air Traffic Controllers coordinate the movement of aircraft, ensuring safety, minimising delays, and keeping flights running smoothly across the skies. This demanding role requires precision, quick decision-making, and exceptional communication skills. In the UK, salaries for Air Traffic Controllers typically range from around £37,000 for those starting their careers, climbing up to £100,000+ for highly experienced professionals at senior levels, reflecting the responsibility and expertise demanded. With competition strong and the profession requiring a steady hand under pressure, having an interview-winning CV can make all the difference. That’s why I’ve crafted this Air Traffic Controller CV template example to help you secure the opportunities you deserve.
Why your CV matters as an Air Traffic Controller
As a career coach with over 25 years’ experience, I can tell you one universal truth: your CV is your ticket to opportunity. Recruiters and hiring managers at aviation authorities, airports, and private firms often receive hundreds of applications for each role. What separates the successful applicants from the rest is not just their qualifications, but how clearly, professionally, and persuasively their experience is communicated. By using the right cv template and following a structure that highlights your technical skills, situational awareness, and leadership qualities, you’ll stand out instantly.
When creating an Air Traffic Controller CV example, you should think of it as more than a list of jobs. It’s your personal marketing document. It needs to demonstrate not only your technical know-how but also the calm, composed mindset required to handle high-stakes environments.
Key skills and responsibilities to highlight
On your CV, you should clearly convey the skills and responsibilities aligned with the job description. Employers want to see evidence of:
Monitoring and directing aircraft movements on the ground and in the air.
Using radar, radio, and computers to maintain safe distances between planes.
Clear and calm communication with pilots and ground staff.
Making quick, effective decisions under pressure.
Maintaining focus during long shifts and in high-stress situations.
Strong teamwork and collaboration across departments.
Make sure these skills are incorporated in your CV bullet points. Don’t just state them – demonstrate them with results. For example, instead of simply writing “Ensured safety of aircraft movements,” write “Successfully managed the safe take-off and landing of 300+ flights daily, ensuring zero incidents during tenure.”
Structuring your Air Traffic Controller CV
Your cv template should follow a simple, structured format to make it easy for recruiters to scan:
Contact details – Professional email, phone number, LinkedIn link.
Professional Profile – A short, powerful summary highlighting your expertise, calmness under pressure, and commitment to safety.
Key Skills – A bullet-pointed section with 8–10 relevant technical and soft skills.
Career History – Reverse chronological order with measurable achievements.
Education & Training – Relevant qualifications, including ATC certifications, aviation safety courses, or degrees.
Additional Information – Languages, IT proficiency, or voluntary work that adds value.
CV example for an Air Traffic Controller
Here’s a simplified outline of an Air Traffic Controller CV example to show how your experience can be framed:
Professional Profile
Calm, focused, and highly skilled Air Traffic Controller with over 10 years’ experience managing both regional and international flight operations. Proven track record in maintaining safety, reducing delays, and ensuring seamless air traffic coordination. Adept at decision-making under pressure, with excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Key Skills
Air traffic monitoring & direction
Radar and radio communication
Aviation safety compliance
Decision-making under pressure
Situational awareness
Multitasking and prioritisation
Team collaboration
Leadership in high-pressure environments
Career History
Senior Air Traffic Controller, London Heathrow Airport – 2016 to Present
Directed the safe movement of 1,200+ daily flights across one of the world’s busiest airspaces.
Reduced average flight delay times by 12% through efficient coordination.
Mentored 15 junior controllers, improving overall team performance and safety awareness.
Air Traffic Controller, Manchester Airport – 2010 to 2016
Oversaw take-offs and landings for regional and international flights, maintaining compliance with CAA safety standards.
Introduced streamlined handover processes between shifts, reducing operational errors by 18%.
Education
BSc in Aviation Management – University of West London
CAA Approved ATC Certification
Advice for graduates entering air traffic control
If you’re a graduate looking to enter this demanding profession, your CV needs to focus on your transferable skills, training, and passion for aviation. Even if you lack direct ATC experience, highlight problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and calmness under pressure from part-time jobs, university projects, or voluntary roles. Employers know you won’t have years of ATC under your belt yet – what they want is evidence of the potential and discipline to succeed in training.
Advice for mid-career professionals
For those at a middle management level, your CV should demonstrate leadership, efficiency improvements, and mentoring experience. Recruiters want to see that you not only perform at a high standard but also contribute to developing others and improving processes. At this stage, quantify your achievements – how many flights you’ve overseen, how delays were reduced, or how you’ve contributed to safety records.
Advice for senior managers and executives in ATC
If you’re moving into senior management, your cv example should highlight strategic leadership. Focus on oversight of large teams, safety improvements at organisational level, and contributions to national or international aviation projects. Show how you’ve influenced policy, managed budgets, and introduced technology that enhances efficiency. Employers hiring senior ATC professionals are seeking visionary leaders who combine technical knowledge with people management and strategic thinking.
Do’s and don’ts when writing your Air Traffic Controller CV
Do’s:
Use a clear and professional cv template with consistent formatting.
Tailor your CV to the job description every time.
Highlight measurable achievements with numbers and percentages.
Emphasise safety, calmness, and decision-making under pressure.
Keep it concise – ideally two pages maximum.
Don’ts:
Don’t overload your CV with jargon. Keep it clear and accessible.
Don’t leave unexplained career gaps – provide context.
Don’t include irrelevant personal details like marital status or age.
Don’t copy generic phrases without evidence – back everything up with examples.
Don’t submit your CV without checking grammar and formatting.
Final tips to make your Air Traffic Controller CV stand out
To truly stand out, ensure your CV:
Reflects your personality as well as your skills.
Demonstrates results – not just responsibilities.
Aligns perfectly with the job you’re applying for.
Includes keywords recruiters are searching for, such as “aviation safety,” “airspace management,” and “flight coordination.”
Remember, your CV is the bridge between your capabilities and your dream job. With the right structure, clarity, and persuasive tone, you can make a lasting impression.
Ready to transform your CV?
I’ve spent over 25 years helping professionals like you secure interviews and land their dream roles. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for a senior ATC position, the right CV and LinkedIn profile can change everything. Don’t leave your career to chance – let’s create a powerful, tailored CV that wins interviews and showcases your full potential.
👉 Book an appointment today
and take the next step towards your dream career in air traffic control.
