At a Glance
- Tasks: Act as pseudo pilots in a realistic simulation environment, supporting air traffic control activities.
- Company: Join NATS, the UK's leading air navigation service provider, dedicated to aviation safety.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £27,001.79, generous leave, pension scheme, and wellness support.
- Other info: Extensive training provided; diverse candidates encouraged to apply.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team and advance your career in aviation.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with strong communication skills and the ability to adapt quickly.
The predicted salary is between 27001 - 27001 £ per year.
NATS is the UK's leading air navigation service provider, handling over 2 million flights each year. It provides air traffic control services from two control centres supporting airports all around the UK, as well as a wide range of commercial solutions to over 30 countries internationally. Our people are at the heart of our purpose to advance aviation and keep the skies safe.
NATS is currently recruiting for Aircraft Control Position Operators (ACPOs) on a permanent basis within the Simulation Unit at CTC (Hampshire). CTC Simulation Unit gives trainees and valid controllers an opportunity to train in the most realistic yet safe environment possible. These entry level positions offer an excellent platform to establish yourself in NATS and develop your career.
Successful candidates will be responsible for the correct implementation of all Aircraft Control Position Operator (ACPO) related duties in support of Air Traffic Control simulation activities. Duties include but are not limited to:
- Acting as pseudo pilots, interacting clearly and realistically via simulated communication link with participants, and inputting instructions and messages, in an accurate and timely manner, into the simulator in response to commands.
- Assisting in the correct set up and reconfiguration of the simulator and carrying out support duties in connection with non-simulation work at an appropriate level.
- Assisting in the reporting of all simulator faults/observations following the relevant process.
- Supporting the Simulation Data Development Team with scenario data testing (under appropriate supervision).
Essential skills and experience:
- Quick, accurate thinking
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to work positively and effectively as part of a team
- Able to adapt readily to changing situations and procedures with a flexible approach to the workload
- Strong IT skills
You must be a minimum of 18 years old when applying for this position. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Extensive on-the-job training will be provided.
All successful candidates will start on the salary of £27,001.79 and with progression and development you will increase your salary gradually to the maximum stated. Assessments are due to take place on 20th / 21st June and 11th / 12th July. We can offer start dates as early as August 2026.
We are proud to offer a fantastic total reward package to help you thrive both personally and professionally. In addition to a competitive salary that's regularly reviewed, you'll also benefit from a wide range of other benefits which includes generous leave entitlement, a market-leading defined contribution pension scheme, a range of voluntary benefits and retail discounts, wellness support and a comprehensive learning and development offering.
If you share our passion to advance aviation and keep the skies safe - we would like to hear from you whatever your age, sex, race, faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, visible or invisible disability. Individuals that bring different perspectives, skills, life experiences and backgrounds help us be at the forefront of our industry.
Aircraft Control Position Operator employer: NATS
NATS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its Simulation Unit in Hampshire, where you can kickstart your career as an Aircraft Control Position Operator. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, including wellness support and generous leave, NATS is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth. Join us in our mission to advance aviation and enjoy the unique opportunity to be part of one of the UK's leading air navigation service providers during a transformative period.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aircraft Control Position Operator
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, dive into NATS' mission and values. Understanding what drives them will help you connect your skills to their goals, making you a standout candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Use mock interviews to sharpen your communication skills. Being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is crucial, especially in a role that requires quick thinking and teamwork.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your adaptability! Be ready to discuss times when you've successfully navigated change or tackled unexpected challenges. This will demonstrate your flexibility, which is key for the dynamic environment at NATS.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining the NATS team and contributing to their vision of advancing aviation.
We think you need these skills to ace Aircraft Control Position Operator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Aviation:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for aviation shine through! We want to see that you share our passion for keeping the skies safe and advancing the industry. A personal touch can make your application stand out.
Be Clear and Concise:Make sure your application is easy to read and straight to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate applicants who can communicate effectively, just like you'll need to in the role!
Highlight Relevant Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your quick thinking, communication skills, and IT proficiency. These are essential for the Aircraft Control Position Operator role, so give us examples of how you've demonstrated these abilities in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at NATS
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Aircraft Control Position Operator role. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description, such as communication, teamwork, and IT skills. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Practice Simulated Scenarios
Since the role involves acting as pseudo pilots and interacting in a simulated environment, it’s a great idea to practice some mock scenarios. You can do this with friends or family, focusing on clear communication and quick thinking. This will not only prepare you for potential situational questions but also demonstrate your ability to adapt under pressure.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
NATS values teamwork highly, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in a team before. Think of specific situations where you contributed positively, adapted to changes, or supported your colleagues. This will highlight your collaborative nature and fit for their culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training process, the transformation programme NATS is undergoing, or how success is measured in the ACPO role. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
