Air traffic controller assistant

What does an Air Traffic Control Assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Air Traffic Control Assistant supports air traffic controllers in their daily work at airports and control centers. Tasks include managing and relaying aircraft information, coordinating ground movements, and monitoring and documenting traffic flows. The role involves close collaboration with other professionals in air traffic management, often in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment. The work environment is technically advanced, safety-focused, and typically located in control rooms equipped with modern technology and digital systems.

Salary development over time

The salary for Air Traffic Control Assistants has shown a clear increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 76,700 SEK per month, rising slightly the following year to 77 000 SEK. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary increased more significantly to 81 400 SEK, which corresponds to an increase of approximately 5.7% over the past year. This positive salary trend can be explained by increased demand for qualified personnel, inflation pressures, and limited availability of individuals with the right education and security clearance. The profession attracts both men and women, and the high average salary reflects the high level of responsibility and the demands for accuracy and stress tolerance.

Air Traffic Control Assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 81 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 62,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 88,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education ≥3 years)
• Hourly wage: 490 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 82 400 SEK, men 80 700 SEK – women earn 102% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Limited differences, but higher salaries in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as an Air Traffic Control Assistant, a high school diploma with a technical or scientific focus is usually required, followed by internal training with air traffic management organizations. Some employers also prefer post-secondary studies in aviation technology, logistics, or related fields. Security screening and a verified background check are mandatory parts of the recruitment process.

• High school diploma: Technical or scientific focus recommended
• Post-secondary studies: Merit-worthy, especially in aviation technology or logistics
• Internal training: Mandatory and includes both theory and practical parts
• Security check: Requirement for approved background check
• English skills: Very good proficiency required

Common benefits and compensations

Air Traffic Control Assistants are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as extra vacation days, overtime pay for unsociable hours, and wellness allowances. Occupational pensions, health insurance, and opportunities for further training are also common. Larger organizations may also offer staff discounts and subsidized meals.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Air Traffic Control Assistant is limited due to the narrow recruitment pool and specific qualification requirements. Challenges in the profession include working under high stress, making quick decisions, and maintaining focus during long shifts. Security and confidentiality requirements are very high, and mistakes can have serious consequences for aviation safety. Additionally, the role requires continuous updating of technical knowledge as digitalization within air traffic management develops rapidly.

Tips for aspiring Air Traffic Control Assistants

To succeed as an Air Traffic Control Assistant, it is good to be precise, stress-resistant, and communicative. Training oneself to work systematically under pressure increases the chances of passing selection tests and performing well in daily work. Good teamwork skills are crucial since the role involves close cooperation with air traffic controllers and colleagues. Improving language skills, especially in English, is a significant advantage as it is often required in international environments. Flexibility and adaptability during shift work are necessary, as well as having a basic technical understanding to quickly familiarize oneself with new systems. Finally, preparing for rigorous security checks by always maintaining personal integrity and background is wise.

Key facts about Air Traffic Control Assistant

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with internal training
• Work environment: Office-based, technically advanced, and security classified
• Working hours: Shift work, including nights and weekends
• Demand: 412 job openings in the profession according to latest statistics
• Gender distribution: Women have a slightly higher average salary than men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an Air Traffic Control Assistant, there are opportunities to advance to more independent roles, such as becoming an air traffic controller after further training or specialization in technical support functions. Administrative roles within air traffic management and training assignments may also be relevant. The employment agency's prognosis for the profession is uncertain due to limited data, but demand for personnel in air traffic management is influenced by the development of the aviation industry and technological changes. The high average salary and relatively low competition make the profession attractive for qualified individuals.

Common questions about Air Traffic Control Assistant

• What does an Air Traffic Control Assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 81 400 SEK per month, with variations depending on education, sector, and experience.
• What education is required to become an Air Traffic Control Assistant?
  - A high school diploma with a technical or scientific focus is recommended, often supplemented with internal training.
• What is the working environment like for Air Traffic Control Assistants?
  - The environment is technically advanced, security classified, and often located in control rooms with shift work.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for Air Traffic Control Assistants?
  - The outlook is uncertain, but there are 412 job openings according to current statistics.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Attention to detail, stress tolerance, teamwork skills, and good language skills are especially important.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Extra vacation days, overtime pay, wellness allowance, occupational pension, and further training.