Air Traffic Control Specialist

Air Traffic Control Specialist

The Air Traffic Control Specialist (ATCS) applies knowledge of the laws, rules, regulations, and procedures governing the movement of air traffic to evaluate non-compliance with prescribed air traffic operations and procedures and to develop Corrective Action Plan (CAP) mitigation efforts. As an expert in air traffic and airspace procedures and processes, the ATCS performs complex, specialized air traffic control assignments. Provides national level expertise to serve as a senior project manager for non-compliance issues identified by the Air Traffic Safety Oversight Service (AOV).

Work directly affects the objectives of the Air Traffic Service and the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS).

As a recognized expert in air traffic operations and procedures, the ATCS applies experience separating and controlling air traffic in a terminal or en route air traffic facility to review and analyze the identified hazard or deviation, such as loss of separation, outline the deficiency and then facilitate work groups to mitigate the deficiencies. Applies expert technical knowledge of the Safety Risk Management System (SRMS) to develop relevant safety metrics and processes that measure progress in complying with safety requirements.

Provides Safety Risk Management (SRM) panels and senior management with critical safety data to identify trends and to assess the affect of changes in the air traffic operating environment. Identifies and monitors trends in safety data to ensure that identified hazards and risks are monitored according to safety standards. The ATCS serves as the ATO Compliance Verification Tool (CVT) Control Board representative for ensuring that Safety Management System (SMS) processes are adhered to within the Service units.

Uses experience working with the Safety Risk Management Implementation Team (SRMIT) to pro-actively study and analyze broad and complex safety data. Participates in teams that address cross-cutting issues related to the implementation and harmonization of SMS processes throughout the ATO. Interacts with other service units to report safety issues, share ideas and guide safety analysis information to corrective action agreements. Develops safety recommendations, including for Corrective Action Requests, audit findings, Document Change Proposals, and other safety related identified issues.

Uses the SRM processes to develop innovative and effective methods to document SRM criteria and guidance. Applies experience gained by participating in safety audit and evaluation committees to support Air Traffic Safety Oversight Services (AOV) and the ATO Audits and Assessment Group efforts, to assess SRM compliance within the ATO and Service Units.

Contacts are internal and external to the Service Unit and include senior management, industry and external stakeholders, vendor representatives and representatives from national labor unions. Represents the FAA as focal point of contact in cross-functional teams concerning ATO programs and projects relating to Service Unit Compliance with the SMS. Recommends organizational positions on major programs and issues to agency management. Prepares responses to Congressional inquires, Office of the Inspector General (OIG), and the Air Traffic Safety Oversight Service, as required.

Prepares and reviews reports or policies for internal and external distribution.

The ATCS is responsible for identifying, defining, and organizing work for multiple work activities. Acquires and allocates resources to accomplish work activities within established schedules. Independently commits resources. Agency managers accept work products as technically authoritative, though work is reviewed for success in achieving desired results, effectiveness, and consonance with agency goals and objectives.