Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) at Global Air Navigation Services (Abu Dhabi)
Job Summary
Leading air navigation service providers (GAL ANS / Abu Dhabi Airports) are recruiting experienced Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCO) - Tower for Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi International Airport). In this high-responsibility aviation position, you will provide safe, expeditious, and orderly operational aerodrome control, flight information, and alerting services in compliance with GCAA regulations, ATS Operational Manuals, and international safety management frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
Aerodrome Control & Operational Support
- Provide aerodrome control services, flight information services, and alerting services to aircraft within the assigned tower control zone.
- Support unit management in executing daily air traffic control operations in accordance with scheduled rosters and ATS Operational Manuals.
- Maintain a high degree of operational knowledge regarding ATC communications, radar displays, and airfield lighting control systems.
- Maintain professional demeanor and clear radio communications with flight crews, ground control, and emergency services.
Safety Management System (SMS) & Technical Compliance
- Monitor the operational status of critical ATC equipment and immediately report failures or serviceability issues to the Shift Supervisor.
- Report potential risks, hazardous conditions, and operational incidents via official safety reporting platforms.
- Promote and adhere to the Air Navigation Services Safety Management System (SMS) to ensure safety remains the paramount operational priority.
- Adhere to Quality Management System (QMS) standards, administrative rules, and regulatory directives issued by the GCAA.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Valid Air Traffic Controller (ATCO) License with valid Aerodrome Control (ADI) Rating and relevant Certificate of Competency.
- Minimum 5 years of active operational experience as a Tower Controller in a busy international airport environment.
- Valid ICAO Class 3 Medical Certificate and ICAO English Language Proficiency (ELP) Level 5 or 6.
- In-depth knowledge of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) and UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) regulations.
- Demonstrated experience in operating within an integrated Safety Management System (SMS) and Quality Management System (QMS).
Job Overview
| Employer | Air Navigation Services Provider / Abu Dhabi Airports |
|---|---|
| Role Title | Air Traffic Control Officer - Tower (ATCO) |
| Job Location | Zayed International Airport (Abu Dhabi Intl. Airport), UAE |
| Work Model | On-site Operational Control Tower (24/7 Rotational Shift System) |
| Employment Type | Full-time Permanent Contract |
| Licensing Required | ATCO License with Aerodrome Control Rating + ICAO Class 3 Medical |
| Experience Required | 5+ years active tower controlling experience in high-density airports |
| Core Competencies | Aerodrome Control, GCAA Regulations, Safety Management System (SMS), Incident Reporting |
| Salary & Package | Tax-Free Competitive Aviation Salary + Housing & Transport Allowances |
| Benefits | Not Stated |
| Where to Apply | Official Aviation Careers Portal |
Career Preparation Guide & Candidate Advice
Who this role suits
This critical aviation role is designed for licensed Tower Controllers with over 5 years of experience managing complex aerodrome movements. If you possess sharp situational awareness, impeccable radio telephony discipline, and a strong safety mindset tailored to high-density international hub operations, Abu Dhabi offers a premier professional environment.
What to highlight on your CV
- Licensing & Ratings: Clearly state your ATCO license authority, Aerodrome Control rating, ICAO Class 3 Medical status, and ELP level at the top of your resume.
- Airport Traffic Volume: Detail the annual movement figures or peak hourly traffic of international airports where you have held validation.
- Safety Reporting Experience: Mention active participation in Safety Management System (SMS) incident logging, hazard identification, and risk mitigation.
Interview & Simulator Assessment Topics
- Emergency Protocols: Review low visibility procedures (LVP), runway incursion prevention, bird strike management, and emergency diversion handling.
- GCAA & ICAO Standards: Demonstrate sound understanding of CAR-ANS requirements, aerodrome separation standards, and ATS quality assurance routines.
Documents to Prepare
- Copy of valid ATCO License, Aerodrome Rating certificates, and validated logbooks.
- Valid ICAO Class 3 Medical Certificate and ICAO English Language Proficiency (ELP) endorsement.
- Updated Aviation CV detailing controlling history and airport traffic specifications.
- Passport copy valid for at least 6 months.
Mini Glossary
- ATCO: Air Traffic Control Officer, licensed professional responsible for managing aircraft movements safely and efficiently.
- GCAA: General Civil Aviation Authority, the federal aviation regulator in the United Arab Emirates.
- SMS: Safety Management System, a systematic approach to managing safety risk in aviation operations.
- LVP: Low Visibility Procedures, operational rules enforced during fog or poor visibility at aerodromes.
Direct Official Link: Apply directly through official aviation career channels in Abu Dhabi. On the careers page, search for this role. NYAGULF JOBS never requests application or placement fees.
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