Navy AC Rating — Air Traffic Controller
AC is the Navy rating for Air Traffic Controller. Controlled military air traffic from towers and radar facilities — sequencing, separation, and split-second communication.
Where AC experience fits
These civilian roles map closely to what a Navy Air Traffic Controller already does:
- FAA Air Traffic Controller (direct path)
- Airfield Operations Specialist
- Dispatcher
- Operations Center Coordinator
- UAS Airspace Coordinator
What you bring on day one
- Tower & radar control
- Rapid multi-channel communication
- Procedural precision
- Stress-proof decision-making
- Airspace management
Certifications to consider
- FAA CTO (military experience counts)
- FAA dispatcher license
- Part 107
- AAAE airport certs
Industries hiring AC talent
Aerospace & Defense
Aerospace and defense manufacturers, MRO shops, and primes run on precision, documentation, and mission discipline — exa…
Explore roles →Federal & Government Contractors
Government agencies and the contractors that serve them value people who understand the mission, the standards, and the …
Explore roles →Operations Leadership
Operations leadership is where the military's core strength — getting a team to execute a plan flawlessly, every day — p…
Explore roles →Supply Chain & Logistics
The U.S. military runs the largest, most complex logistics operation on earth. Veterans from its supply and transportati…
Explore roles →Resume keywords for AC: air traffic controller, ATC, tower, radar, airfield operations. Add the ones that fit your experience so applicant-tracking systems surface your resume.
LockLeed roles in fields AC veterans move into
Live openings from our job board in the civilian fields listed above. These are real reqs — not every one will fit your experience, and applying is always free.
AC veterans we can introduce you to
Hiring managers: these are people we have already interviewed and verified, available now. Veterans: this is what a finished AC profile looks like to an employer.
AC to Civilian FAQ
What civilian jobs can an AC (Air Traffic Controller) do?
Common fits include FAA Air Traffic Controller (direct path), Airfield Operations Specialist, Dispatcher, Operations Center Coordinator, and UAS Airspace Coordinator. The right match depends on your specialty, leadership level, and interests.
Do I need a degree to use my AC experience?
Often no. Many of these roles value hands-on experience and certifications over a degree. Where a credential helps, we point you to the fastest path.
How do I put AC on a civilian resume?
Translate duties into civilian terms and lead with outcomes and numbers. Our free Resume Studio and MOS Translator do this for you in minutes.
Does LockLeed charge veterans?
Never. LockLeed is a veteran-owned staffing firm; our help is always free for job-seeking veterans.
Free help for your transition
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