Manager, SMS (Onsite)

AAR; Grand Prairie (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

AAR is seeking an SMS Manager (Safety Management System) to lead the four core SMS pillars and align the program with FAA, ICAO, and EASA guidelines. You will work with the Quality team to investigate, audit, and improve safety performance across the organization.

You will coordinate hazard identification, risk assessments, and corrective actions, driving a just culture and effective safety communications. Bachelor-level qualification and 3–5+ years in aviation safety are preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required in aviation management, aerospace engineering, occupational health & safety, or related field.
• 3–5+ years in aviation operations, maintenance, ATC, or safety assurance.
• Deep understanding of ICAO, FAA, or EASA SMS frameworks, safety policy, and auditing.
• Specialized SMS training, FAA certificates, or NBAA Safety Manager Certificate preferred.

Responsibilities

• Deploy and maintain the four core SMS pillars: Safety Policy, Safety Risk Management, Safety Assurance, Safety Promotion.
• Design and manage the SMS framework per FAA/ICAO/EASA guidelines.
• Lead hazard identification, risk assessments, and mitigation with departments and SRBs.
• Investigate accidents, incidents, and near-misses; implement CAPs and root-cause actions.
• Serve as primary contact for FAA, NTSB, ICAO, or EASA and coordinate with regulators.
• Promote just culture and safety awareness through training and communications.

Skills

Analytical skills

Root-cause analysis

Project management

Independent decision-making

Regulatory awareness

Education

Bachelor's degree in aviation management / aerospace engineering / occupational health and safety

Job description

SMS Manager (Safety Management System)

This position is in Office Monday - Friday!!

The SMS Manager contributes to the continuous improvement of safety at AAR Components by supporting the management of its Safety Management System. This role will be responsible for performing functions related to the SMS, such as investigations and audits supporting the overall program. This role will be required to work closely and coordinate with the Quality team. The SMS manager will report to the Director of Quality with no direct reports.

What you will be responsible for:

• Deploy and maintain the four core SMS pillars (Safety Policy, Safety Risk Management, Safety Assurance, and Safety Promotion).
• Design, update, and manage the organization-wide SMS framework in accordance with guidelines such as FAA 14 CFR Part 5, ICAO Doc 9859, and EASA standards.
• Facilitate hazard identification, conduct risk assessments, and coordinate mitigation strategies with operational departments and Safety Review Boards (SRB).
• Lead or support the investigation of accidents, incidents, and near-misses to identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive action plans (CAP).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies and governing authorities like the FAA, NTSB, ICAO, or EASA.
• Drive a just culture and safety awareness through employee training, safety newsletters, and cross-functional communication.

What you will need to be successful in this role:

• Bachelors degree in aviation management, aerospace engineering, occupational health and safety, or a related field (or equivalent practical or military experience).
• Minimum of 3 to 5 plus years of experience in aviation operations, maintenance, air traffic control, or quality or safety assurance.
• Deep understanding of ICAO, FAA, or EASA SMS frameworks, safety policy, and auditing principles.
• Specialized SMS training courses, FAA safety certificates, or industry designations (such as an NBAA Safety Manager Certificate) are often preferred.
• Strong analytical and root-cause analysis skills.
• Project management and organizational capabilities.
• Independent decision-making and the authority to flag or halt unsafe operations.

Year One Critical Success Factors

• Establish a realistic, phased SMS Implementation Plan that aligns with local civil aviation authority (e.g., FAA, EASA, ICAO) requirements and get it formally accepted.
• Complete a baseline assessment of the organizations existing safety structures against regulatory requirements. Focus on identifying what already works so you don't reinvent the wheel.

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary:

Competitive salary and bonus package. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage. 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Generous paid time off program. Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

Physical Demands Or Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be regularly required to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about the facility. The environmental characteristic for this position is an office setting. Candidates should be able to adapt to a traditional business environment. AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.

Job

Administrative

Primary Location

United States-Texas-Grand Prairie-Triumph Accessory Services

Schedule

Full-time

Overtime Status

Exempt

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.