Lead Aviation Safety Inspector

Placements24; Randfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement annuity

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa seeks a Lead Aviation Safety Inspector to strengthen safety oversight from Rustenburg, combining field inspections with strategic analysis. The role focuses on compliance with CARs and ICAO standards and driving proactive safety across operations.

You will lead a team of safety officers, develop and maintain the SMS, conduct audits, investigate incidents, and report findings to senior management.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in aviation safety management or related role.
• Tertiary qualification in Aviation Management or Engineering, or equivalent.
• Proven experience in safety audits and investigations.
• Strong knowledge of CARs and ICAO safety standards.
• Willingness to travel within the North West province and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage the SMS in line with national and international standards.
• Conduct safety audits and inspections of operations, facilities, and maintenance.
• Investigate safety incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed safety performance reports and risk assessments.
• Deliver safety training programs for employees.
• Monitor regulatory changes and advise on policy updates.
• Lead and mentor a team of aviation safety officers.
• Maintain comprehensive safety records and documentation.

Skills

Aviation safety management

Regulatory compliance

Auditing

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Aviation-related degree

Tools

SMS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity within the South African aviation industry, is seeking an experienced and authoritative Lead Aviation Safety Inspector to enhance their safety oversight program based in Rustenburg, North West . This leadership position is responsible for ensuring adherence to aviation safety standards and regulations across various operational domains. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance, and auditing. This role involves a mix of field inspections and office-based analysis, offering a Hybrid work arrangement. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of proactive safety and operational integrity. This role is crucial for maintaining the high safety benchmarks that our client is known for in the Rustenburg region and beyond. The position demands a strategic approach to safety management and a keen eye for detail in identifying potential risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage the organization's aviation safety management system (SMS) in accordance with national and international standards.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections of aviation operations, facilities, and maintenance practices.
• Investigate aviation safety incidents and accidents, identifying causal factors and recommending corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Prepare detailed reports on safety performance, audit findings, and risk assessments for senior management.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for employees to promote a strong safety culture.
• Monitor changes in aviation regulations and advise the organization on necessary adjustments to policies and procedures.
• Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory authorities regarding safety matters.
• Lead and mentor a team of aviation safety officers, ensuring effective execution of safety programs.
• Maintain comprehensive safety records and documentation.

Requirements

• A tertiary qualification in Aviation Management, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance, or a related operational role.
• Proven experience in conducting safety audits and investigations.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) and international aviation safety standards (e.g., ICAO Annexes).
• Experience with Safety Management Systems (SMS) implementation and maintenance.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Leadership experience and the ability to effectively manage a team.
• Proficiency in safety management software and standard office applications.
• Must be willing to travel within the North West province and potentially other regions as required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and benefits package, including performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life cover, and retirement annuity.
• Generous allowance for professional development and continuous education.
• Flexible working hours and a Hybrid work model.
• Opportunity to shape safety strategies for a prominent aviation company in Rustenburg .