Supervisory Aviation Safety Inspector (Front Line Manager)
Federal Aviation Administration
FreshPosted Jan 22
✓ Fresh Listing
Posted: January 22, 2026 (0 days ago)
This job was posted recently. Fresh listings typically have less competition.
Supervisory Air Traffic Control Specialist (Operations Supervisor - MSS-2)
Federal Aviation Administration
Department of Transportation
Location
Des Moines, Iowa
Salary
$110,780 - $144,010
per year
Type
Closes
February 5, 2026
SES Pay Grade
Base salary range: $147,649 - $221,900
Typical requirements: Executive-level leadership experience. Senior executive qualifications required.
Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).
Job Description
Summary
This job involves leading a team of air traffic controllers in a busy airport facility, overseeing daily operations, assigning tasks, and ensuring smooth and safe air traffic management.
A good fit would be an experienced air traffic control professional with supervisory background who enjoys mentoring staff, solving operational challenges, and promoting a fair work environment.
It's ideal for someone ready to step into a leadership role in aviation safety.
Key Requirements
- At least 1 year (52 weeks) in an FAA 2152 FG-14/FV-J or higher regional/headquarters position
- Or 1 year facility rated or area certified in an FAA Air Traffic Services (ATS) facility
- Or 1 year in a Management Support Specialist (MSS) position in an FAA ATS facility
- Experience providing first-line supervision to air traffic control teams
- Ability to plan, direct operations, assign work, and evaluate employee performance
- Skills in resolving employee complaints, arranging training, and improving work processes
- Qualifications must be met by the vacancy announcement closing date
Full Job Description
Serves as an Operations Supervisor in an ATC-7 Level terminal facility.
Specialized Experience: (1) Must have held an FAA 2152 FG-14/FV-J or above regional or headquarters position for at least 1 year (52 weeks); OR (2) Must have been facility rated or area certified for at least 1-year (52 weeks)in an FAA ATS facility.
NOTE: An employee who has been facility rated or area certified for at least 1-year (52 weeks) in an FAA ATS facility that is upgraded is considered to meet the qualification requirements of the upgraded position; OR (3) Must have held a MSS position for at least 1-year (52 weeks) in an FAA ATS facility.
Qualifications must be met by the closing date of the vacancy announcement. Major Duties:
Is responsible for planning and directing operations within delegated areas of responsibility. Provides first line supervision to a team of developmental and certified professional controllers.
Supervises a staff of air traffic control specialist who are responsible for carrying out air traffic control assignments within a geographic area.
Plans and assigns work to be accomplished by subordinate employees. Sets work priorities and schedules.
Approves leave; gives advice, counsel, and instruction to employees on both work and administrative matters. Evaluates performance of employees and recommends performance ratings.
Hears and resolves complaints from employees and refers group grievances and more serious unresolved complaints to a higher level manager.
Identifies and arranges for developmental and other training needs of employees. Finds ways to improve production or increase the quality of the work directed.
Adjusts staffing levels and work procedures to accommodate resource decisions made at higher levels. Recommends goals and objectives for the area and tracks accomplishments.
Supports and participates in the labor management partnership process, and fosters a work environment where all employees are treated in a fair and equitable manner.
Check your resume before applying to catch common mistakes