CI2 Aviation’s Air Traffic Controller’s Job Description for

Auburn University Regional Airport

The Air Traffic Controller works under the general supervision of the Air Traffic Manager in a Temporary Control Tower. Auburn University Regional Airport (AUO) will operate as a Non-Federal Contract Tower until accepted by the FAA into the Federal Contract Tower program. Due to the university setting, expect fluctuations in operating hours, traffic volume, and airspace complexity, for special events. Air Traffic Controllers working at Auburn University Regional Airport are responsible for the safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic in accordance with the FAA, CI² Aviation, and AUO orders and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Air Traffic Responsibilities
  • Provide a safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic.
  • Control, monitor, and track aircraft movement within the proposed Class D Airspace.

• • Sequence and prioritize aircraft movements to optimize traffic flow and minimize delays, considering the unique mix of aircraft types, student pilot training, and experience levels.

• Issue clearances and instructions to pilots for safe separation between aircraft during arrivals, departures, taxiing, and potential conflicts.
• Coordinate with Ground Control or Local Control to ensure safe movement of aircraft on taxiways and crossing runways.

• • Provide pilots with the current weather, runway in use, approach/departure information, pertinent NOTAMs, and airport conditions.

• Solicit PIREPs when requested or deemed necessary in accordance with FAA JO 7110.65.

• • Coordinate with Atlanta Approach Control as required.
  • Issue IFR Clearances.
  • Maintain traffic count and logs in accordance with FAA, CI² Aviation, and AUO orders and regulations.
  • Follow established procedures in accordance with FAA, CI² Aviation, and Auburn University orders and regulations.
  • Provide and coordination emergencies when required, such as aircraft malfunctions, medical situations, or security threats. 

• Communication and Coordination:
  • Maintain clear and concise communication with pilots using standard phraseology in accordance with FAA JO 7110.65.
  • Always maintain a calm demeanor.
  • Coordinate effectively with other ATCs in the tower to ensure smooth traffic flow, especially during peak traffic periods.
  • Proactively exchange information and collaborate with the Air Traffic Manager (ATM), flight instructors, and Auburn University Regional Airport personnel to maintain a shared situational awareness of training activities and identify potential conflicts.

• Safety and Procedures:
  • Adhere to all FAA regulations and air traffic control procedures specific to the university airport airspace.
  • Apply critical thinking and decision-making skills to prioritize safety in all situations, with a heightened awareness of potential challenges faced by student pilots.
  • Report any safety hazards or equipment malfunctions to the ATM immediately.
  • Maintain a high level of situational awareness and vigilance during all operational phases, particularly during runway crossings.

• Auburn University Regional Aviation Operations:

• • During special events such as football games, expect fluctuations in operating hours, traffic volume, and airspace complexity.
  • Liaise with Auburn University Regional Airport personnel to ensure smooth operations between air traffic control and special events.

Qualifications and Skills:

• US Citizenship is required.

• Minimum of 4 years of experience as a certified FAA, military, or FCT Air Traffic Controller.
• Must have a current or previous Control Tower Operation (CTO) Certificate or an Air Traffic Safety Oversight (AOV)

• Must pass an annual medical examination, drug screening, and background check as mandated by the FAA, CI² Aviation, and AUO.
• This position is subject to drug and/or alcohol testing per the DOT/FAA requirements (pre-employment, random, reasonable cause/suspicion, post-accident).
• Must obtain and maintain an AUO Control Tower Operation (CTO) Certificate. Certificate.

• Comprehensive knowledge of appropriate FAA air traffic control laws, rules, and regulations.

• Excellent communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to adapt to a fast pace changing air traffic environment.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in a fast-paced environment during busy traffic periods.

• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills to collaborate with other ATCs, ATMs, pilots, and airport personnel.