Air Traffic Controller - Coastal Operations Specialist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Shift allowances

Performance incentives

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training & progression

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Air Traffic Controller to manage the Richards Bay airspace, ensuring safety, efficiency and compliance with ICAO standards at a busy regional airport.

You will coordinate arrivals, departures and overflights, issue clearances, monitor radar and flight progress, and work with pilots and airport staff in a high‑pressure, 24/7 environment. Opportunities for advanced training and career progression are offered within the air navigation services sector.

Qualifications

• Valid ATC license with Aerodrome/Approach/Area ratings.
• Extensive live ATC experience, preferably at a regional airport.
• Thorough knowledge of ICAO and local ATC procedures.
• Ability to stay calm and make critical decisions under pressure.
• Excellent English communication and interpersonal skills.
• Team player with ability to handle high workload.
• Medical and psychological assessments completed successfully.
• Willingness to work shifts including nights, weekends and holidays for 24/7 operations.

Responsibilities

• Control and manage all aircraft movements within the assigned airspace (arrivals, departures, overflights).
• Ensure safe separation using vertical, horizontal and time standards.
• Issue clearances, advisories and traffic information to pilots.
• Monitor radar displays and navigational aids to maintain situational awareness.
• Communicate effectively with pilots, other ATC units and airport personnel.
• Respond to emergencies and implement contingency procedures as required.
• Maintain logs and records of ATC activities accurately.
• Stay updated on ATC procedures, regulations and technology.

Skills

Fluent English

Communication

Education

ATC License with Aerodrome/Approach/Area ratings

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a vital air navigation service provider, is seeking a skilled and vigilant Air Traffic Controller to manage the complex airspace surrounding Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. This position plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, regularity, and efficiency of air traffic in a busy regional airport environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining the flow of aircraft, preventing collisions, and providing essential information and assistance to pilots. This is a challenging yet rewarding career for individuals with exceptional concentration, decision‑making abilities, and a commitment to aviation safety. You will operate in a highly regulated environment, adhering to stringent international standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Control and manage all aircraft movements within the assigned airspace, including arrivals, departures, and overflights.
• Ensure the separation of aircraft in accordance with established vertical, horizontal, and time standards.
• Issue clearances, advisories, and traffic information to pilots to maintain safe separation and facilitate efficient flight.
• Monitor radar displays, flight progress strips, and other navigational aids to maintain situational awareness.
• Communicate effectively with pilots, other air traffic control units, and relevant airport personnel.
• Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies, implementing contingency procedures as required.
• Maintain accurate logs and records of all air traffic control activities.
• Continuously update knowledge of air traffic control procedures, regulations, and technology.
• Cooperate with regulatory bodies and participate in safety audits and reviews.

Requirements

• A valid Air Traffic Controller License with appropriate ratings (Aerodrome, Approach, or Area Control).
• Extensive experience in a live air traffic control environment, preferably in a regional airport setting.
• Thorough knowledge of ICAO and local air traffic control regulations and procedures.
• Proven ability to remain calm and make critical decisions under pressure.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in English.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team and manage high workload periods.
• Successful completion of rigorous medical and psychological assessments.
• Willingness to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as required for 24/7 operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with shift allowances and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are included, ensuring security and well‑being.
• Opportunities for advanced training and career progression within the air navigation services sector are actively supported.

You will work in a modern facility with advanced air traffic control systems, located in the scenic region of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. A supportive team environment and the satisfaction of contributing to aviation safety are integral parts of this role.