Lead Aviation Quality Assurance Manager

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development and training

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Lead Aviation Quality Assurance Manager to oversee the QMS for aviation operations, ensuring compliance with SACAA, EASA, and FAA standards. You will lead a QA team and drive continuous improvement for safety and operational excellence.

You will manage audits, CAPA, training, and KPI monitoring, fostering a proactive safety culture while coordinating with regulators and customers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aviation Management, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in Quality Assurance within the aviation.
• Experience leading QA teams.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and quality standards (ISO 9001, AS9100).
• Proven experience with audit processes, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
• Strong understanding of aviation safety management systems (SMS).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyze data and implement data-driven quality improvements.
• Willingness to work in a hybrid capacity in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) for aviation operations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant aviation regulatory requirements (SACAA, EASA, FAA).
• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance team, providing guidance and support.
• Conduct internal and external audits to assess compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Oversee the investigation of non-conformances, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver quality assurance training programs for staff.
• Monitor KPIs related to quality and safety.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and customers on quality-related matters.
• Champion a proactive safety and quality culture within the organization.
• Manage documentation control and record-keeping for quality assurance processes.

Skills

Leadership

Quality Assurance

Audits

CAPA

Data analysis

Regulatory knowledge

Communication

Problem solving

ISO 9001/AS9100 knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aviation Management, or related field

Tools

QA software

Documentation systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity in the aviation industry, is seeking an experienced and meticulous Lead Aviation Quality Assurance Manager to oversee quality operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This leadership position is responsible for establishing, implementing, and maintaining the company's quality management system to ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and industry standards. The successful candidate will lead a team of QA professionals, drive continuous improvement initiatives, and champion a culture of quality throughout the organization. This role is crucial for maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence in all aspects of our aviation services. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex quality assurance programs and a deep understanding of aviation quality principles. Your leadership will be instrumental in ensuring our client's reputation for reliability and safety remains paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) for aviation operations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulatory requirements (e.g., SACAA, EASA, FAA).
• Lead and manage the Quality Assurance team, providing guidance and support.
• Conduct internal and external audits to assess compliance and identify areas for improvement.
• Oversee the investigation of non-conformances, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver quality assurance training programs for staff.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to quality and safety.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and customers on quality-related matters.
• Champion a proactive safety and quality culture within the organization.
• Manage documentation control and record-keeping for quality assurance processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aviation Management, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in Quality Assurance within the aviation industry.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing QA teams.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and quality standards (e.g., ISO 9001, AS9100).
• Proven experience with audit processes, root cause analysis, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
• Strong understanding of aviation safety management systems (SMS).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyze data and implement data-driven quality improvements.
• Proficiency in QA software and tools.
• Willingness to work in a hybrid capacity in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R.
• Medical aid and provident fund.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional development and certifications.
• A leadership role in a respected aviation company.
• Relocation assistance available.
• Supportive team environment.