SMS Manager: Aviation Safety & Compliance Lead

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

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.