Lead Aviation Safety Inspector

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid and life cover

Retirement annuity

Professional development support

Flexible working hours

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, seeks a Lead Aviation Safety Inspector to enhance the safety oversight program. This hybrid role requires strategic safety management, audits, and regulatory liaison to uphold high aviation safety standards across operations.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance and auditing, with leadership experience and a willingness to travel within the North West and beyond.

Qualifications

• A tertiary qualification in Aviation Management, Engineering or related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance, or related operational role.
• Proven experience in conducting safety audits and investigations.
• In-depth knowledge of CARs and ICAO safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement and manage the organization’s aviation safety management system (SMS) per national/international standards.
• Conduct regular safety audits/inspections of operations, facilities and maintenance.
• Investigate safety incidents and accidents, identify causes and recommend corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed safety performance, audit findings and risk assessment reports for senior management.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs to promote a strong safety culture.
• Monitor regulatory changes and advise on policy/procedure updates.
• Act as primary contact for regulators regarding safety matters.
• Lead and mentor a team of aviation safety officers.
• Maintain comprehensive safety records and documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Aviation safety auditing

Regulatory compliance

Analytical thinking

Communication

Team management

Travel willingness

Education

Bachelors in Aviation Management / Engineering

10+ years experience in aviation safety

Tools

Safety management 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.