ATC Placement

[PUNISHER]

So my question is, how hard is it to get a ATC job in the state/city you want to live in? I am aware of the process required to become a controller. I would like to get some input from controllers; how long did it take to get the job you wanted? Is there a bid system?

 

[Lrjtcaptain]

Well, I got hired in 2003. Bid WPAC region which is now part of the Western Service Area. Initially wanted to be in Phoenix area ended up in Northern California. I then bid on every Phoenix and Atlanta opening hoping to be in either city and now I'm in Chicago. No complaints however. It is nice to be back in the midwest. You pick 1 of 3 regions you would prefer to get placed, chances are they will stick you where they need you however it never hurts to befriend a supervisor or manager of a particular facility you would like to get. I've seen it done where new hires get the facility they want. Its rare but its possible. Good luck! ----Where do you want to be?----

 

[PUNISHER]

Thanks for the reply, I would like to live in MI/TVC.

Wasn't there a guy that wrote a book about being a controller at ORD?

 

[Lrjtcaptain]

Yeah, Bob Richards AKA Calvin "Secrets from the Tower"