Air Traffic Controller

Australian Department of Defence; Richmond; On-site; AUD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Australian Department of Defence – Richmond NSW invites applications for an Executive Level 1 Air Traffic Controller, line controller, supervisor and training officer. The role encompasses ATC duties, training supervision, and policy guidance within a high-pressure environment.

Ideal candidates have military or civilian ATC background; experience in Sydney basin and tower ops is desirable. Application closing date listed as 19 November 2026.

Qualifications

• ATC experience, military or civilian ATC background.
• Experience in Sydney basin and tower operations desirable.
• Strong decision-making and judgement under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Perform Air Traffic Controller duties as directed.
• Supervise ATC training and maintain documentation.
• Motivate trainees and guide outcomes in high-pressure environment.
• Lead and manage a cohesive team using emotional intelligence.
• Provide expert policy advice on air traffic service provision.

Job description

Australian Department of Defence – Richmond NSW

This position fulfils the duties of an Air Traffic Control (ATC) line controller, Supervisor and Training officer.

The duties of an Executive Level 1 (EL1) Air Traffic Controller in Defence include the following:

• Performing duties of an Air Traffic Controller as directed.
• Conducting and supervising ATC training including staff briefing and maintaining relevant documentation.
• Motivating ATC trainees and providing guidance in achieving desired outcomes in a high-pressure environment.
• Conducting associated secondary duties as directed.
• Leading and managing a high-performing cohesive team, using emotional intelligence and sound people management skills.

About our Team

This position reports to the Deputy Flight Commander as part of the ATC team. The team provide Air Traffic Services (ATS) to aircraft utilising the RAAF Base Richmond airbase and associated restricted areas. We support ATS up to seven days a week, 15 hours a day.

This includes civilian aircraft, Australian Defence Force and international military aircraft. A key part of the teams work is supporting access to airspace for parachuting activities.

Our Ideal Candidate

Our ideal candidate has military or civilian ATC experience. Experience in the Sydney basin and tower operations is desirable.

An EL1 Air Traffic Controller will exercise a considerable degree of independence and perform in a subject matter expert role. They will exercise sound decision-making and judgement to provide expert policy advice.

They will bring in-depth knowledge of air traffic service provision and develop, implement, and review relevant policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with them.

Application Closing Date: Thursday 19 November, 2026

For further information please review the job information pack, reference AF/06092/26 on https://defencecareers.nga.net.au/?jati=53662DC8-19B7-BBEA-7CD1-ED6756C94D2A