
Ramp Tower Controller - Air Traffic Strategy
United Airlines · Denver, CO
- On site
- Full-time
- $86,616 / year
- Denver, CO
Job highlights
- Control aircraft ground movement on the ramp.
- Ensure safe and efficient operations.
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Utilize specialized hardware and software.
- Work flexible shifts in a 24/7 environment.
About the role
About the Network Operations Team
Our Network Operations team works around the clock running United’s global operation, safely, reliably and efficiently. From dispatching and routing our fleet to coordinating with maintenance line planning and crew scheduling, this team makes caring connections with our internal customers and ultimately, United’s customers. From pushback to landing, the Network Operations team is the eyes and ears on the ground no matter where in the world your United flight takes you.
Job Overview And Responsibilities
The Ramp Tower Controller’s primary purpose is to coordinate and administer ramp control and gate management throughout the geographic boundaries of the airport non-movement area on a per shift basis and serves as the focal point for the safe, efficient, and expeditious ground movement of aircraft ingress and egress within the confines of the ramp to achieve operational priorities. Through effective flow of arrivals and departures will improve on-time performance and reduce taxi delays. Proper sequencing of departures ensures high values flights receive necessary priority without impact to airport surface movement. Arrival performance is vastly improved as controllers use all available tools to make prioritized decisions to maximize ramp and gate space.
- Serves as the focal point for the safe, efficient, and expeditious ground movement of aircraft ingress and egress within the confines of the ramp.
- Monitors inbound and outbound operations and determines best course of action to manage movement, issuing push, taxi, safety advisories, and instructions to aircraft in the non-movement area via FCC licensed frequencies.
- Communicates and interacts effectively with local internal departments, specifically the Stations Operations Center, Network Operations Center, and ATS Desk on flight priority and resource capabilities.
- Maintains continuous liaison with the local airport authority, local FAA, other airlines, deice companies, and any other entity necessary to ensure the smooth operation of the ramp tower functions.
- Works with specialized hardware and software, including video cameras, aircraft monitoring systems, gate management systems, and VHF radio equipment to safely communicate, monitor, and control aircraft movement.
- Maintains currency in changes to the airfield layout, construction, and aircraft management policies and procedures associated with the operations of the ramp tower.
- Provides ramp control services to other airlines under United control areas.
- Backfills for operational manager as Controller in Charge (CIC) as needed and other duties as assigned.
What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications)
- High School Diploma, GED, or education equivalent.
- 2 years' experience in Airline/Airport Operations and/or an aviation-related college degree.
- Intimate knowledge of Airline/Airport Operations.
- Ability to read, write and clearly speak the English language.
- Ability to multitask different operations at the same time.
- Technology literate in working within established systems.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Must be flexible and willing to work any shift in a 24 hour/7 day a week operation including weekends, nights and holidays.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship.
- Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification.
- Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position.
What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications)
- College Degree with an aviation focus.
- Aviation Management, Air Traffic Control.
- Previous Ramp Tower or FAA Air Traffic Control.
Compensation and Benefits
The base pay range for this role is $66,500.00 to $86,616.00. The base salary range/hourly rate listed is dependent on job-related factors such as experience, education, and skills. This position is also eligible for bonus and/or long-term incentive compensation awards.
You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, employee assistance program, commuter, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k) and flight privileges.
Equal Opportunity Employer
United Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable law. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation, contact JobAccommodations@united.com.
Key skills/competency
- Ramp Tower Controller
- Air Traffic Control
- Airline Operations
- Airport Operations
- Network Operations
- Gate Management
- Aircraft Movement
- FCC Licensed Frequencies
- VHF Radio
- FAA
Skills & topics
- Ramp Tower Controller
- Air Traffic Control
- Airline Operations
- Airport Operations
- Network Operations
- Gate Management
- Aircraft Movement
- FCC Licensed Frequencies
- VHF Radio
- FAA
- Aviation
- Logistics
- Operations
- Ground Handling
- Flight Operations
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight airline/airport operations experience and aviation-related education for the Ramp Tower Controller role.
- Emphasize relevant skills: Showcase your ability to multitask, work under pressure, and use technology systems.
- Prepare for the interview: Be ready to discuss your knowledge of airline/airport operations and your experience with air traffic control concepts.
- Demonstrate flexibility: Confirm your willingness to work any shift, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as this is essential for the Ramp Tower Controller position.
- Highlight US work authorization: Clearly state your legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary responsibility of a Ramp Tower Controller at United Airlines?
- The primary responsibility of a Ramp Tower Controller at United Airlines is to coordinate and administer ramp control and gate management, ensuring the safe, efficient, and expeditious ground movement of aircraft within the airport's non-movement area.
- What qualifications are essential for the Ramp Tower Controller position?
- Essential qualifications include a High School Diploma or equivalent, 2 years of experience in Airline/Airport Operations or an aviation-related degree, intimate knowledge of Airline/Airport Operations, strong English communication skills, ability to multitask, technological literacy, and the flexibility to work any shift in a 24/7 operation.
- Does United Airlines offer sponsorship for the Ramp Tower Controller role?
- No, candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship for the Ramp Tower Controller position.
- What is the salary range for a Ramp Tower Controller at United Airlines?
- The base pay range for this role is $66,500.00 to $86,616.00 annually, with potential for bonuses and long-term incentives based on factors like experience and education.
- What kind of technology is used by the Ramp Tower Controller?
- Ramp Tower Controllers use specialized hardware and software, including video cameras, aircraft monitoring systems, gate management systems, and VHF radio equipment to communicate, monitor, and control aircraft movement.
- Is prior Air Traffic Control experience required for the Ramp Tower Controller job?
- While not strictly required, previous Ramp Tower or FAA Air Traffic Control experience is a preferred qualification that will help you stand out for this role.
- What benefits does United Airlines offer for this position?
- Eligible benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, accident & disability insurance, parental leave, employee assistance program, commuter benefits, paid holidays and time off, 401(k), and flight privileges.
- What does it mean to work in a 'fast-paced, high-pressure environment' as a Ramp Tower Controller?
- This means you will be expected to make quick, critical decisions under time constraints, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintain composure while ensuring the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations on the ramp.
Similar roles
Open positions we recommend based on this role.