Air traffic controllers held about 25,000 jobs in 2012. The majority of controllers worked for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Air traffic controllers work in control towers, approach control facilities, or en-route centers. Many tower and approach/departure controllers work near large airports. En route controllers work in secure office buildings located across the country, which typically are not located at airports.
Approach/departure controllers often work in semi dark rooms. The aircraft they control appear as points of light moving across their radar screens, and a well-lit room would make it difficult to see the screen properly.
Controllers must work rapidly and efficiently, while maintaining total concentration. The mental stress of being responsible for the safety of aircraft and their passengers can be taxing. As a result, controllers tend to retire earlier than most workers: those with 20 years of experience are eligible to retire at age 50. Controllers are required to retire at age 56.