Aviation Safety Manager - Risk & Compliance

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,350,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks an Aviation Safety Manager to lead safety, risk and compliance initiatives. You will develop and oversee a robust Safety Management System (SMS) to ensure top safety performance across the organization.

The role requires deep regulatory knowledge (SACAA, EASA, FAA), strong incident investigation and root-cause analysis skills, and a proven ability to drive a proactive safety culture.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent extensive experience in aviation safety management, risk assessment or compliance.
• 7+ years of experience in aviation safety management or related roles.
• Experience developing and implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS).
• Strong knowledge of national and international aviation safety regulations (SACAA, EASA, FAA).
• Proven incident investigation and root-cause analysis experience.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and decision-making abilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and manage the SMS in accordance with regulations and best practices.
• Conduct risk assessments and identify hazards across operations.
• Lead investigations of incidents and safety-related events with detailed reporting.
• Develop CAPAs to mitigate identified risks and monitor effectiveness.
• Promote safety culture through training, communication and engagement initiatives.
• Monitor KPIs and report safety performance to senior management and regulators.
• Ensure compliance with relevant aviation safety regulations and audits.
• Liaise with authorities on safety matters and represent the company during audits.
• Oversee safety training programs for relevant personnel and maintain records.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Safety culture promotion

Education

Degree in Aviation Management or related field

Tools

Safety management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant operator within the aviation industry, is seeking a seasoned Aviation Safety Manager to lead their safety, risk, and compliance initiatives. This critical role, based in Vereeniging, Gauteng , is responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing a robust Safety Management System (SMS) that ensures the highest levels of operational safety across the organization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of aviation regulations, risk assessment methodologies, and incident investigation processes. You will be instrumental in fostering a proactive safety culture throughout the company, driving continuous improvement in safety performance. This position offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to make a substantial impact on aviation safety at a strategic level.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the organization's Safety Management System (SMS) in accordance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Conduct comprehensive risk assessments and identify potential hazards across all operational areas.
• Oversee and conduct thorough investigations of aviation incidents, accidents, and safety-related occurrences, providing detailed reports and recommendations.
• Develop and implement effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs) to mitigate identified risks.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the organization through training, communication, and engagement initiatives.
• Monitor and report on key safety performance indicators (KPIs) to senior management and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international aviation safety regulations.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities on safety matters and represent the company during safety audits.
• Manage the safety training programs for all relevant personnel.
• Maintain safety documentation and records in an organized and accessible manner.

Requirements

• A degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in aviation safety management, risk assessment, or compliance roles.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing Safety Management Systems (SMS).
• Strong knowledge of aviation regulations (e.g., SACAA, EASA, FAA) and safety standards.
• Demonstrated experience in incident investigation and root cause analysis.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Proficiency in using safety management software and data analysis tools.
• Candidates must possess a commitment to upholding the highest safety standards.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with the experience and responsibilities of this vital role. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for continuous professional development and advanced training in aviation safety management are provided. This position is based at our client's facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng , offering a stable and supportive work environment where your contributions to safety are highly valued. We are dedicated to fostering a workplace where safety is paramount.