Air Traffic Control Specialist; Runway Safety Specialist

• Department: Department of Transportation

This position is located in the Air Traffic Organization, Safety Service Unit, Safety Directorate. AJI-1000. This Directorate is the focal point for the FAA’s runway safety initiatives in Airports, Aviation Safety and Air Traffic to reduce the risk of surface safety.

The Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) uses experience separating and controlling air traffic to perform complex specialized air traffic control assignments related to surface safety. Serves as a senior point of contact on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) surface safety efforts, representing the Safety Directorate (AJI-1000) for projects, programs, research, and acquisition.

This work contributes directly to the accomplishment of air traffic and other FAA objectives and the efficiency and effectiveness of air traffic operations. Applies experience and comprehensive knowledge of air traffic control procedures and operations, as well as staff programs to carry out national programs designed to prevent runway incursions and excursions.

Utilizes Safety Management System (SMS) policies and procedures to analyze and evaluate systems, processes, and equipment designed to prevent runway incursions and excursions. May assist in the testing of automated systems to evaluate runway safety enhancement initiatives to leverage existing technology.

Utilizes national-level expertise in local and regional runway safety programs, as well as the Surface Safety Group, to actively engage in work groups, facilitating consensus among Runway Safety stakeholders on policies for assessing and quantifying surface safety risks. Participates in high-profile investigations of runway incursions and safety events, analyzing pilot/controller communications, airport layouts, and procedural adherence.

Assists in the development of policy and procedures for the operational workforce to analyze safety management system (SMS) programs and policies. Analyzes surface safety trends and risk indicators to identify root causes of hazards and operational concerns. Evaluates existing runway safety policies, identifying areas for improvement to reduce uncertainties while promoting a risk-based approach to safety management over compliance-driven measures.

Conducts in-depth analysis of runway incursions and surface safety incidents to determine contributing factors, systemic risks, and emerging trends. Collaborates in the development of data-driven mitigation strategies aimed at enhancing runway and taxiway operations and improving overall safety within the National Airspace System (NAS).

Participates in Surface Safety Groups and Runway Safety Action Teams to advance safety initiatives and strengthen coordination among aviation stakeholders. Defines, organizes, and allocates resources to accomplish important work activities within established schedules. Leads airport inspections, ensuring airfield markings, signage, lighting systems, and operational protocols meet FAA safety standards.

Conducts comprehensive audits of runway safety compliance, reporting findings and recommending improvements based on observed deficiencies. Applies air traffic operational safety to recommend policies that enhance airport surface safety, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and international aviation safety standards.

As an authority on runway safety, performs evaluations and refines runway safety programs, and provides guidance on procedure modifications and safety interventions. Works with stakeholders to enhance communication and procedural adherence for runway operations. Implements temporary operational procedures to accommodate airfield construction while maintaining safety and efficiency. Coordinates runway and taxiway closures, adjusting air traffic flow to minimize disruptions.

Monitors traffic patterns and safety incidents to assess the effectiveness of altered procedures. Provides recommendations for refining airfield operations and minimizing risks during future construction projects. Broad policies and objectives provide general guidance for completing work objectives, but allow considerable discretion to develop new or innovative approaches.

Conducts risk assessments to identify potential hazards associated with altered procedures and construction zones.

Education cannot be substituted for experience.

This position is with…