At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Simulator team to support Air Traffic Control training and simulate real-life scenarios.
- Company: NATS, the UK's leading air navigation service provider, dedicated to aviation safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, wellness support, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting entry-level role with excellent career development in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in aviation and make a real impact on air traffic control.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a positive team player; experience in ATC is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 27001 - 37801 £ per year.
Closing date is Friday 6th February 2026.
NATS is the UK's leading air navigation service provider, handling over 2 million flights annually. We provide Air Traffic Control (ATC) services from 2 control centres supporting airports across the UK and a wide range of commercial solutions to over 30 countries. Our people are at the heart of our purpose to advance aviation and keep the skies safe.
We are looking for Aircraft Control Position Operators (ACPO) to join our Simulator team at Prestwick Centre. You will be joining at an exciting time, as the organisation continues delivering one of the biggest transformation and change programs ever undertaken for the NATS ATC team. These entry level positions offer extensive on-the-job training and an excellent platform to establish yourself in NATS and to develop your career.
You will have responsibility for the implementation of all ACPO related duties in support of ATC simulated activities. The purpose of these activities is to simulate real life scenarios and provide high quality training for Air Traffic Controllers and/or demonstrate potential changes to airspace design.
Principle Accountabilities:
- Acting as aircraft pilots, interacting clearly and realistically, listening, implementing, and reading back the Air Traffic Controllers commands via a simulated communication link with the participants of the activities, inputting instruction messages into touch screen simulator systems in response to those commands.
- Ensuring timely and accurate inputs to the ACPO system, mainly supported by scripted materials, to create realistic scenarios on the radar, to ensure the participant remains focused and a professional service is provided.
- Work with colleagues to assist in the correct set up and configuration of the simulator.
- Support the Data Preparation and Project Specialists with scenario data preparation and testing.
- Carrying out related support/admin duties as required.
- Working in a team to ensure all activities run smoothly.
Essential Skills:
- Excellent communication skills, incl. a clear speaking voice and good diction.
- Quick, accurate thinker.
- Works positively and effectively as part of a team.
- Adapts well to change.
- Flexible approach to workload.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft IT packages.
Nice To Have:
- Experience delivering theory and practical training.
- Knowledge of Radio Telephony phraseology, incl. the phonetic alphabet.
- Knowledge of aircraft performance and appreciation of ATC procedures.
- Experience in and working knowledge of an ATC environment.
This position is a 2-year Fixed Term Contract. Applications without a covering letter will not be considered. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, as we are unable to provide sponsorship. Starting salary: £27,001.79. The position involves a rotating shift pattern covering early and late shifts, as well as weekend work. Assessments are scheduled to take place in March 2026 at the NATS office in Prestwick.
We are proud to offer a fantastic total reward package to help you thrive personally and professionally. In addition to a regularly reviewed competitive salary, you'll also receive a wide range of benefits including 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 in Prestwick employer: NATS
NATS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Prestwick Centre where you can play a vital role in advancing aviation safety. With extensive on-the-job training, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package including wellness support and generous leave, NATS fosters a culture of growth and inclusivity, ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aircraft Control Position Operator in Prestwick
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research NATS and understand their mission and values. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills. As an Aircraft Control Position Operator, clear communication is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable with the terminology and commands you'll be using.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. This can give you insider knowledge about the role and might even lead to a referral, which can boost your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows that you’re proactive and serious about joining the NATS team. Don’t forget to include a covering letter to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Aircraft Control Position Operator in Prestwick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, give the job description a good read. It’s packed with clues about what NATS is looking for in an Aircraft Control Position Operator. Make sure you highlight your relevant skills and experiences that match their needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Don’t skip the cover letter! This is your chance to show off your personality and explain why you’re the perfect fit for the role. Keep it concise, engaging, and make sure to connect your experiences to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear language, proper grammar, and a friendly tone. If you can convey your thoughts effectively in writing, it’ll give you a leg up!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. 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 Stuff
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of Air Traffic Control procedures and Radio Telephony phraseology. Familiarise yourself with the phonetic alphabet and aircraft performance basics. This will show that you're serious about the role and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Since communication is key in this role, practice speaking clearly and confidently. You could even record yourself or do mock interviews with a friend. This will help you refine your diction and ensure you can convey instructions effectively during the interview.
✨Team Player Vibes
Highlight your ability to work well in a team. Think of examples from past experiences where you collaborated successfully with others. NATS values teamwork, so showing that you can adapt and contribute positively will definitely work in your favour.
✨Be Ready for Change
The aviation industry is always evolving, and so is NATS. Be prepared to discuss how you handle change and adapt to new situations. Share any experiences where you've had to be flexible and how you managed those transitions smoothly.
