At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate air traffic and ensure safety at a busy airport.
- Company: Cranfield Airport, home to the UK's first digital control tower.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible shifts, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are valued; excellent career growth opportunities await.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and play a crucial role in aviation safety.
- Qualifications: Must hold an Air Traffic Controller’s Licence and have strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Competitive, based on qualifications and experience
37.5 hours per week, worked to an agreed shift pattern
Location: Cranfield, Bedfordshire
We currently have an excellent opportunity for an Air Traffic Control officer to work efficiently within a small airport team including Operations, Safety, Air Traffic Control, Engineering, Fire Fighting, and FBO sections, whilst prioritising safety.
About Cranfield Airport Operations Limited
Cranfield Airport is located between Bedford and the City of Milton Keynes and has annual movements of circa 35,000. The Airport provides Aerodrome and Procedural Approach control from the UK’s first operational digital control tower, which opened in December 2018. A project to install and commission surveillance radar is in progress, with commissioning due in 2025. Situated in busy Class G airspace, Cranfield manages a variety of traffic types, ranging from single engine training aircraft to BAe146 and ATR-72, and is home to several companies which provide commercial flight training, maintenance, and research and testing for industry and government projects.
About the Role
As an integral part of the tower team, the Air Traffic Controller will provide ATS in accordance with regulation, and be pivotal in the coordination and deployment of the support staff and operators across the business. In addition, you will liaise with the Aerodrome Authority on operational matters, and support the SATCO and Airport Manager, as required, in the smooth running of the airport.
About You
This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing airport and provide a safety critical function within the airport business. To be successful in this role, you must hold an Air Traffic Controller’s Licence with ADI rating, ICAO Level 4 English as a minimum, and a CAA Class 3 medical, and will be expected to maintain this standard for the duration of your employment. You will be a flexible, resilient individual with well-developed communication skills, able to cope with the pressures and demands of this safety critical role and adapt your approach to different customers you will meet. APP and APS ratings, OJTI and Assessor endorsements are desirable. It would be advantageous if you could further contribute to the business by having a Met Observer’s qualification, operational experience in a Class G environment, or project experience.
Successful applicants will be required to undergo a DBS Criminal Record check and provide a significant work reference history. Please note that interviews may take place outside of normal business hours and may take place online.
At Cranfield, we value Diversity and Inclusion, and aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together harmoniously with dignity and respect and realise their full potential.
How to Apply
For an informal discussion, please contact Sophie Hayes, Senior Air Traffic Controller, on (T); +44 (0)1234 75 8185 or (E); sophie.hayes@cranfield.ac.uk. Apply online now at https://jobs.cranfield.ac.uk or contact us for further details on E: peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk. Please quote reference number 5168. Closing date for receipt of applications: 18 January 2026.
Air Traffic Control Officer in Cranfield employer: Cranfield University
Cranfield Airport Operations Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where safety and teamwork are paramount. Located in Bedfordshire, the airport provides unique opportunities for professional growth within a small, dedicated team, while also being at the forefront of aviation technology with its state-of-the-art digital control tower. Employees benefit from a culture that values diversity and inclusion, ensuring everyone can thrive and contribute to the airport's mission of excellence in air traffic management.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Air Traffic Control Officer in Cranfield
✨Connect with Local Logistic Groups
Dive into local transportation and logistics groups on platforms like Facebook or LinkedIn. Show up to their meetups if you can – it's a great way to network with industry pros who can share insights, job openings, or even refer you to their own company.
✨Get Behind the Wheel of Job Boards
Look for job boards specific to transportation and logistics, like Logistics Job Site or TransportJobs. These platforms often have listings that you won’t find on general job boards, so they’re worth checking out regularly!
✨Leverage Internships & Graduate Schemes
Many companies in transportation and logistics offer graduate schemes and internships that can pave the way to full-time positions. Don't shy away from applying; even a short stint can make a solid impact on your CV and get your foot in the door at companies like Cranfield University.
✨Apply Directly with Us!
When you find openings at great companies, make sure to apply directly through our website. It not only shows your initiative but also helps us to help you get noticed by Cranfield University. Every application gets us one step closer to landing that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Air Traffic Control Officer in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience:When you're applying for a role in the transportation and logistics sector at Cranfield University, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Whether it's moving goods, coordinating schedules, or using transportation management software, give us the lowdown on your past gigs. It'll paint a clearer picture of what you're capable of!
Quantify Your Achievements:Numbers speak volumes in logistics! If you've optimised routes, reduced delivery times, or improved customer satisfaction, mention those incredible stats in your CV. This gives us concrete evidence of your impact and showcases your problem-solving skills.
Tailor That Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be more than just a formality—let it breathe your personality and passion for logistics! Explain why you're excited about the role at Cranfield University and how you can contribute to our team. Don't forget to tie in specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.
Research and Reflect:Before you hit 'submit,' spend some time digging into Cranfield University. Understand our mission, values, and the specific challenges in the logistics industry. This will help you craft a targeted application that shows you truly want to be part of our crew, setting you apart from the rest!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield University
✨Know Your Logistics Basics
Get familiar with the key principles of transportation and logistics, like supply chain management, inventory control, and route optimisation. You might get asked practical questions about how to improve efficiency, so brush up on your problem-solving skills and be prepared to discuss any relevant software tools you've used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In logistics, employers love to gauge how you'd handle real-life situations. Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll need to demonstrate your decision-making skills, like how to manage delays or coordinate shipments during a crisis. Practise outlining your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Experience
Full-time roles in logistics often require collaboration with various teams, so don't forget to showcase your teamwork experience. Think of examples where you've used communication and collaboration to ensure smooth operations, and get ready to elaborate on how you can facilitate teamwork in a busy environment like at Cranfield University.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
In our world of logistics, missing a small detail can lead to big problems. Be prepared to discuss instances where your attention to detail saved the day, whether it was engaging with clients, managing documentation, or tracking shipments accurately. This will help demonstrate how you can be a reliable asset to Cranfield University.
