Lead Aviation Safety Inspector - Regulatory Compliance

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund

Development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Aviation Safety Inspector for our Durban operations. The role blends on-site inspections with remote data analysis to drive safety protocols and regulatory compliance.

You will lead audits, investigations and risk assessments, develop safety programs, and mentor staff while collaborating with SACAA and other authorities. Senior leadership experience and aviation expertise are essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in aviation safety or related role.
• Degree in Aviation Management or related field.
• Knowledge of ICAO and SACAA regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct safety audits and inspections of aviation operations and facilities.
• Investigate incidents to determine root causes and propose CAPA.
• Develop and implement aviation safety programs and procedures.
• Analyze safety data and report trends to senior management.
• Provide guidance and training on safety regulations to staff.
• Collaborate with authorities (SACAA) to ensure ongoing compliance.

Skills

Audit leadership

Risk assessment

Data analysis

Regulatory knowledge

Communication

SMS software

Education

Aviation management degree

Aviation safety certifications

Tools

SMS software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the aviation industry headquartered in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , is seeking an experienced and dedicated Lead Aviation Safety Inspector. This senior position is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance across all operations. The Lead Inspector will conduct rigorous audits, investigations, and risk assessments to identify potential hazards and implement corrective actions. This hybrid role requires a blend of on-site inspections and audits at various aviation facilities within the region and remote analysis of data and development of safety protocols. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping and maintaining a robust safety culture, contributing significantly to the prevention of accidents and incidents within the aviation sector. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to make a significant impact from our Durban operational base.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and conducting comprehensive safety audits and inspections of aviation operations, facilities, and maintenance activities.
• Investigating incidents and accidents, determining root causes, and recommending corrective and preventive actions.
• Developing and implementing aviation safety programs, policies, and procedures in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Analyzing safety data, identifying trends, and reporting on the overall safety performance to senior management.
• Providing expert guidance and training to operational staff on safety regulations and best practices.
• Collaborating with regulatory authorities (e.g., SACAA) to ensure ongoing compliance and to stay abreast of regulatory changes.
• Managing the safety management system (SMS) and promoting a proactive safety culture throughout the organization.
• Preparing detailed reports on audit findings, incident investigations, and safety performance metrics.
• Assisting in the development and implementation of emergency response plans.

Requirements

• A strong background in aviation safety, with at least 7 years of experience in a similar role.
• Possession of relevant aviation safety certifications or a degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, standards, and best practices (e.g., ICAO, SACAA).
• Proven experience in conducting safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency in safety management systems (SMS) software and data analysis tools.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with all levels of the organization and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing on-site duties in and around Durban with remote analytical and reporting tasks.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, life insurance, and a retirement fund. Opportunities for continuous professional development, including advanced safety training and certifications, are readily available. You will be part of a forward-thinking organization that values safety above all else and provides a collaborative and supportive work environment. This role offers significant influence over safety policy and practice within the company, based out of our Durban office. Enjoy the satisfaction of contributing to a safer aviation industry in South Africa.