How much do Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) make when they first start?

Question

I am joining the air force and going to be going to tech school for air traffic control, I will be working as an ATC for the entire time I am in the air force and will be applying, hopefully, to the NYC area for a job as soon as I am done. I am just wondering, with the AF experience what can I expect to be paid as an ATC at a major air port. I also have no family and will not have any, I enjoy working nights and mornings so I'd be more than willing to take the night/morning shift as well as holidays etc. does that make a difference?

Answer 1

Not much money , need a lot more than Air Force experience to pick planes through the Bravo in NYC.Not much money at first either.

Answer 2

Hey killer, you're jumping the gun!  First, you have to pass boot camp, satisfactorily perform your training, serve your enlistment and then worry about a civilian salary.

Your enlistment will be a perfect way to decide whether the career will suit your lifestyle.  If you enjoy the travel the Air Force provides (temporary duty, permanent change of station assignments) you may consider making the Air Force a career.  Besides, ATC has a killer reenlistment bonus...good luck and thanks for serving!