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 University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration within the Faculty of Business and Management. With flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on employee development, staff are empowered to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on students' entrepreneurial journeys. The university's commitment to fostering a vibrant academic community makes it an attractive place for those passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Air Traffic Control Officer in Cranfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Air Traffic Control Officers on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and the company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge and communication skills. Practice common interview questions with a mate, focusing on how you handle pressure and safety-critical situations.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for aviation! During interviews, share your experiences and what excites you about working in air traffic control. This enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Cranfield Airport team.
We think you need these skills to ace Air Traffic Control Officer in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Air Traffic Control Officer role. Highlight relevant experience, qualifications, and skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about air traffic control and how your background makes you the perfect fit for Cranfield Airport. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As an Air Traffic Control Officer, communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. We’re looking for candidates who can handle the pressures of the role with confidence.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Cranfield Airport!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your Air Traffic Control regulations and procedures. Familiarise yourself with the specific operations at Cranfield Airport, including their digital control tower and the types of aircraft they manage. This will show that you're genuinely interested in the role and understand the environment you'll be working in.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As an Air Traffic Control Officer, communication is key. Prepare to demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and effectively. You might want to practice some scenarios where you have to communicate under pressure, as this will highlight your resilience and adaptability.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have any operational experience in a Class G environment or hold additional qualifications like Met Observer’s, make sure to bring these up during the interview. Relate your past experiences to the responsibilities of the role, showing how you can contribute to the team right from the start.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the airport's future projects, like the commissioning of the surveillance radar in 2025. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also your long-term interest in being part of Cranfield Airport's growth and success.
