As an Air Traffic Control Specialist located at an Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC), he/she works with National Airspace System (NAS) software systems, applying technical automation and air traffic familiarization to resolve software problems, create and maintain the adaptation database and provide direct automation support to air traffic operations.
Duties
The specialist is responsible for completing complex, specialized air traffic control assignments maintaining and performing analyses of all facets of the automation systems related to Air Traffic Control (ATC) activity within the facility. Typical duties include (1) performs required research to identify, analyze, and resolve operational automation discrepancies, (2) ensures the adequacy of automation support based on an advanced knowledge of air traffic control procedures and knowledge of facility traffic flows, flight data requirements, radar data, and intra facility and inter-facility coordination procedures, (3) maintains, tests, and modifies the adaptation database to assure that maximum effectiveness is achieved and that data is processed in a precise and timely manner, (4) coordinates with staff at local and other facilities regarding automation decisions and activities that affect operations.
Analyzes symptoms of, and define solutions to problems associated with modern network-based distributed real-time automation systems. He/she gathers information, analyzes, evaluates, and recommends a course of action to resolve adaptation problems with a system, subsystem or support system. Analyzes system performance and fault information to identify causes of adaptation problems or system failures and recommends corrective action.
Performs as a contributing specialist in the assessment/analysis of proposed policies and programs related to the development and deployment of Air Traffic automation, surveillance data processing, and other facility projects. Participates on special project teams to evaluate the effectiveness of automation services. He/she performs technical analysis, documentation, and related tasks in direct support of the air traffic operations. Provides technical assistance to operational personnel for the resolution of system malfunctions. Applies experience and advanced air traffic knowledge, as well as an understanding of new technologies and methodologies, to solve complex problems and develop improved technical processes or systems. Work contributes directly to the success of regional or national programs, the integrated NAS, as well as research, development and testing efforts, FAA Academy instruction, or other program areas.
Contacts are internal and external. He/she communicates with Technical Operations and Air Traffic representatives to monitor software and adaptation requirements and to support second level engineering activities. Integrates and implements air traffic software adaptation changes and requirements with multiple air traffic control facilities both internal and external to the FAA to include military base operations, airlines and international air traffic control organizations.
Established policies and procedures cover most assignments, but allow considerable discretion to select an optimum approach or recommend a new approach. Must make extensive technical judgments when interpreting and implementing policy and procedures governing the assigned area. Provides recommendations to improve work processes. Acts as a contributing specialist in his or her area of expertise on broad work activities or may be individually responsible for projects or activities.
The specialist works independently at a field site with limited direction and guidance provided by the Program Operations Field Manager. Resolves most technical problems independently and informs management of problems that require their attention. Often develops and recommends techniques to address problem situations. Work is reviewed periodically for technical compliance.