Lead Air Traffic Controller - Coastal Operations

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Professional development opportunities

Discounted air travel

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Lead Air Traffic Controller to oversee operations at Cape Town International Airport. You will manage a team of controllers, enforce safety standards, and liaise with authorities and airline operations to ensure safe, efficient traffic flow.

The role requires a SACAA ATC license, 10+ years in ATC with supervisory experience, and strong leadership under pressure. A demanding, rewarding environment with growth opportunities awaits.

Qualifications

• Licensed SACAA Air Traffic Controller with valid credentials.
• 10+ years in air traffic control, incl. supervisory/lead exposure.
• Strong knowledge of ICAO and SA regulations.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily ATC operations and staff.
• Ensure compliance with national/international ATC procedures.
• Develop and review policies for control tower and approach units.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback.
• Coordinate training and competency checks for controllers.
• Manage airspace utilization for safety and efficiency.
• Liaise with airlines, airport management and emergency services.

Skills

Air Traffic Leadership

Team Management

ATC Training

ICAO Knowledge

Communication Skills

Education

SACAA ATC License

Tools

Radar Displays

ATC Systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious aviation services provider, is seeking an experienced and highly competent Lead Air Traffic Controller to manage operations at the bustling Cape Town, Western Cape international airport. This pivotal role involves overseeing a team of air traffic controllers, ensuring the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic within the designated airspace. The Lead Controller will be responsible for implementing and maintaining operational procedures, providing guidance and training to staff, and acting as the primary point of contact for aviation authorities and airline operations. This position requires exceptional leadership qualities, a deep understanding of air traffic management principles, and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in upholding the highest safety standards in one of Africa's busiest airspaces. Located in the scenic and dynamic city of Cape Town, this opportunity offers a chance to work in a challenging yet rewarding environment, contributing to the vital infrastructure of global aviation. This role is integral to the safe and efficient functioning of air travel in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the daily activities of air traffic control personnel.
• Ensure compliance with all national and international air traffic control regulations and procedures.
• Develop, implement, and review operational policies and performance standards for the control tower and approach units.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to air traffic control staff.
• Facilitate and deliver ongoing training and competency checks for controllers.
• Manage airspace utilization and traffic flow, employing advanced strategies to optimize efficiency and safety.
• Liaise with airline operations, airport management, and emergency services to coordinate responses to incidents and disruptions.
• Monitor meteorological conditions and advise flight crews accordingly.
• Maintain accurate logs and records of all air traffic control activities and significant events.
• Champion a culture of safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence within the air traffic control team in Cape Town.

Requirements

• Valid Air Traffic Controller license issued by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) or a reciprocal agreement.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in air traffic control, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Proven experience with Aerodrome Control, Approach Control, and Area Control.
• Comprehensive knowledge of ICAO Annex 11 and relevant South African aviation regulations.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively manage a diverse team.
• Proficiency in using air traffic management systems and radar displays.
• Ability to remain calm and focused under high-pressure situations.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards in a critical operational environment.
• Must be able to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as dictated by operational needs in Cape Town.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary package and an attractive benefits scheme, including comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a robust retirement fund, and generous annual leave. Opportunities for professional development, advanced training certifications, and career progression within a leading aviation organization are readily available. Employees will also enjoy access to discounted air travel and a stimulating work environment at one of the world's most beautiful cities, Cape Town.