Trainee Air Traffic Controller
NATS
On-site
United Kingdom
Air Traffic Control is a career like no other and we’re now recruiting for controllers in positions across the United Kingdom to handle aircraft at some of the world’s busiest airports and in some of the most complex airspace in the world. The work is meaningful and demanding but immensely rewarding. You will be part of a rare and highly trained team of professionals that guide pilots to keep aircraft flying safely, efficiently and on time.
We hold initial basic training in Hampshire or Gloucester. Where you undertake the initial training is based on business need at the time, not personal preference. After you have completed the initial training (which lasts between 12-15 months), you will be posted to an airport tower or control centre to complete your learning. The role of a Controller is mobile grade, meaning that you could be posted anywhere in the country after completing your training.
Controllers are the beating heart of our 24-hour operation, working in shifts to instruct and inform pilots by radio whilst using different technologies and radar at their workstation. Our controllers come from all kinds of backgrounds but share critical traits for this job and demonstrate great aptitude and a good attitude. You’ll need to think on your feet and balance the demands of the air traffic you control whilst always maintaining safety – our primary concern.
That’s why we look for people with maturity, dedication and common sense. People who have the commitment to make the most of a comprehensive training programme and carve out a successful and rewarding career in Air Traffic Management.
Eligibility:
After completing your basic training and starting your unit based training your salary will rise to approximately £36,000*. Once you have successfully completed your training, your salary will increase to between £48,480-54,032* depending on the unit you are posted to.
The selection process has 4 stages, by visiting the NATS website you can learn more about the role, the assessment process and what you’ll receive in terms of benefits and training, as well as guidance on eligibility.
Assessment centres will be held from middle of January 2026.
If successful in your application, your employment start date will be dependent on business need with courses starting from March 2026. Please do not apply if you are unable to join us in the next 12 months (unless you are leaving the military and have an extended notice period).
If you share our passion to advance aviation and keep the skies safe – we would like to hear from you whatever your age, sex, race, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, visible or invisible disability. Individuals that bring different perspectives, skills, life experiences and backgrounds help us be at the forefront of our industry.
Please note that NATS reserves the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as soon as possible.
*At 2025 rates
We hold initial basic training in Hampshire or Gloucester. Where you undertake the initial training is based on business need at the time, not personal preference. After you have completed the initial training (which lasts between 12-15 months), you will be posted to an airport tower or control centre to complete your learning. The role of a Controller is mobile grade, meaning that you could be posted anywhere in the country after completing your training.
Controllers are the beating heart of our 24-hour operation, working in shifts to instruct and inform pilots by radio whilst using different technologies and radar at their workstation. Our controllers come from all kinds of backgrounds but share critical traits for this job and demonstrate great aptitude and a good attitude. You’ll need to think on your feet and balance the demands of the air traffic you control whilst always maintaining safety – our primary concern.
That’s why we look for people with maturity, dedication and common sense. People who have the commitment to make the most of a comprehensive training programme and carve out a successful and rewarding career in Air Traffic Management.
Eligibility:
- 5 GCSEs or equivalent at grade C or grade 4 or above, including English and Maths
- Aged 18 or over on application
- Right to work in UK without restrictions or requiring sponsorship
- Able to meet necessary CAA medical standards
After completing your basic training and starting your unit based training your salary will rise to approximately £36,000*. Once you have successfully completed your training, your salary will increase to between £48,480-54,032* depending on the unit you are posted to.
The selection process has 4 stages, by visiting the NATS website you can learn more about the role, the assessment process and what you’ll receive in terms of benefits and training, as well as guidance on eligibility.
Assessment centres will be held from middle of January 2026.
If successful in your application, your employment start date will be dependent on business need with courses starting from March 2026. Please do not apply if you are unable to join us in the next 12 months (unless you are leaving the military and have an extended notice period).
If you share our passion to advance aviation and keep the skies safe – we would like to hear from you whatever your age, sex, race, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, visible or invisible disability. Individuals that bring different perspectives, skills, life experiences and backgrounds help us be at the forefront of our industry.
Please note that NATS reserves the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you are interested, please submit your application as soon as possible.
*At 2025 rates