Senior Air Traffic Controller

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical and dental coverage

Pension fund

Training and development opportunities

Shift allowances and overtime

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Air Traffic Controller for its Mossel Bay operations in the Western Cape. This on-site role requires supervising, mentoring, and maintaining safe airspace management in a demanding 24/7 environment.

You will oversee air traffic flows, issue clearances, and lead training initiatives while ensuring compliance with aviation regulations. Candidate must be medically fit and prepared to relocate if needed.

Qualifications

• Licensed Air Traffic Controller with current credentials (ATC).
• Ratings for Aerodrome Control, Approach Control, and/or Area Control required.
• Minimum 10 years in ATC with at least 3 years in a senior/supervisory role.
• Ability to perform under high pressure and make sound judgments.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Strong understanding of ATM principles, procedures and regulations.
• Proficient with ATC systems, radar and comms equipment.
• Willingness to rotate shifts including nights, weekends and holidays.
• Medically fit and able to pass aviation medical exams.
• Willingness to relocate to Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Control air traffic in assigned airspace ensuring safe separation.
• Issue clearances, advisories, and instructions to pilots.
• Monitor radar displays, flight progress strips and information.
• Manage flow of air traffic and sequence arrivals/departures.
• Communicate with pilots, controllers and airport staff.
• Respond to emergencies and unusual situations promptly.
• Mentor and train junior controllers.
• Contribute to ATC procedures and training program development.
• Conduct performance assessments and provide feedback.
• Maintain proficiency through simulator training and ongoing development.

Skills

Decision-making

Leadership

Communication

Situational awareness

Teamwork

Education

ATC license

Aerodrome/Approach/Area ratings

Tools

Radar systems

Radio/communications equipment

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading air navigation service provider, is seeking a highly experienced and certified Senior Air Traffic Controller to join their vital operations center in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This demanding role requires exceptional decision‑making skills, situational awareness, and the ability to manage complex air traffic flows safely and efficiently. As a Senior Controller, you will not only manage airspace but also mentor junior controllers and contribute to the continuous improvement of air traffic management procedures. This position requires full‑time, on‑site commitment in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, operating within a 24/7 environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Control air traffic in assigned airspace, ensuring safe separation of aircraft.
• Issue clearances, advisories, and instructions to pilots in accordance with established procedures.
• Monitor radar displays, flight progress strips, and other relevant information to maintain situational awareness.
• Manage the flow of air traffic, sequencing aircraft for arrival and departure efficiently.
• Communicate effectively with pilots, other air traffic controllers, and relevant airport personnel.
• Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies and unusual situations.
• Mentor and train junior air traffic controllers, providing guidance and feedback.
• Participate in the development and review of air traffic control procedures and training programs.
• Conduct performance assessments and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Maintain proficiency through regular simulator training and ongoing professional development.

Requirements

• Valid Air Traffic Controller (ATC) license issued by the relevant aviation authority (e.g., SACAA).
• Current ratings for Aerodrome Control, Approach Control, and/or Area Control.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience as a certified Air Traffic Controller, with at least 3 years in a senior or supervisory capacity.
• Demonstrated ability to handle high‑pressure situations and make sound judgments.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and teamwork skills.
• Strong understanding of air traffic management principles, procedures, and regulations.
• Proficiency with air traffic control systems, including radar and communication equipment.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be medically fit and pass rigorous aviation medical examinations.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Mossel Bay, Western Cape area.
• A commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a robust pension fund.
• Employees are provided with extensive training and professional development opportunities, including advanced certifications and simulator recurrent training.
• Shift allowances and overtime pay are available.
• The organization fosters a supportive team environment and provides stability within a vital public service sector.