Lead Air Traffic Controller - Advanced Surveillance Systems

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension fund contributions

Life assurance

Advanced training & development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Air Traffic Controller for the Cape Town, Western Cape facility. The role requires senior-level ATC expertise, leadership, and proficiency with modern surveillance and comms systems to ensure safe, orderly air traffic flow in the region.

You will mentor a team of controllers, develop procedures, and contribute to strategic ATC system improvements while coordinating with aviation stakeholders and authorities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of air traffic control experience.
• At least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Proven expertise operating advanced ATC surveillance and comms systems.
• Thorough understanding of ICAO standards and SA regulations.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent decision-making and problem-solving under pressure.
• Willingness to work shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate the activities of air traffic controllers.
• Manage the flow of air traffic using radar/ADS-B within the Cape Town control zone.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide training and mentorship.
• Develop operational procedures and contingency plans for varied weather and events.
• Liaise with pilots and aviation stakeholders to ensure coordination.
• Monitor traffic flow data to identify congestion and optimize operations.
• Participate in SMS and incident investigations for safety improvements.
• Stay updated on tech advances and regulatory changes.
• Act as primary contact in emergencies and critical incidents.

Skills

ATC experience

Leadership/management

Decision making under pressure

Communication skills

Education

ATC license with ratings

Tools

Radar

ADS-B

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a crucial entity managing air traffic operations for a major metropolitan area, is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Lead Air Traffic Controller to oversee operations at the Cape Town, Western Cape facility. This senior position demands exceptional leadership, advanced knowledge of air traffic control procedures, and expertise in modern surveillance technologies. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic within the Cape Town airspace, mentoring a team of controllers, and contributing to the strategic development of air traffic management systems. This role is integral to the safety and efficiency of air travel in the region, offering a significant leadership opportunity in a challenging and rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate the activities of air traffic controllers, ensuring adherence to established protocols and safety standards.
• Manage the flow of air traffic, utilizing advanced surveillance systems (e.g., radar, ADS-B) and communication technologies within the Cape Town control zone.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing training, mentorship, and feedback to air traffic control personnel.
• Develop and implement operational procedures and contingency plans to manage diverse weather conditions and unforeseen events.
• Liaise with pilots, airline operations, and other aviation stakeholders to ensure seamless coordination.
• Monitor and analyze traffic flow data to identify potential congestion points and implement strategies for optimization.
• Participate in safety management systems (SMS) and incident investigations, contributing to the continuous improvement of air traffic safety.
• Stay abreast of technological advancements and regulatory changes impacting air traffic management.
• Act as a primary point of contact for emergency situations and critical incidents within the airspace.

Requirements

• Valid Air Traffic Controller license with relevant ratings (e.g., Aerodrome, Approach, Area Control).
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in air traffic control, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Proven expertise in operating and managing advanced air traffic surveillance and communication systems.
• Thorough understanding of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and national aviation regulations.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Exceptional decision-making and problem-solving skills under high-pressure situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work shift work, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, in Cape Town, Western Cape.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with shift allowances and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including specialized medical coverage.
• Generous pension fund contributions and life assurance.
• Extensive training and professional development opportunities, including advanced simulation courses.
• Opportunities for career progression within national and international aviation bodies.
• Employee assistance program offering confidential support.
• Relocation package available for candidates relocating to Cape Town.