Senior Airworthiness Inspector

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Leave allowances

Training & conferences

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a South African regulatory body to appoint a Senior Airworthiness Inspector based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role ensures aircraft meet airworthiness and safety standards through inspections, audits, and investigations of aircraft, maintenance organizations, and facilities.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, brings at least 10 years of experience in maintenance or airworthiness, and may hold an AME license.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in aircraft maintenance, design, or airworthiness engineering.
• Current AME license desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, airworthiness directives, and certification processes.
• Proven experience in audits and inspections.
• Strong understanding of aircraft systems, structures, and powerplants.
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and reporting skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound judgments under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Conduct airworthiness inspections of aircraft, including structural integrity and systems.
• Audit maintenance organizations for regulatory compliance.
• Investigate airworthiness incidents and accidents.
• Review and approve maintenance program documentation.
• Participate in certification activities for new aircraft and components.
• Maintain detailed records of inspections and activities.
• Provide guidance on airworthiness requirements to stakeholders.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Investigative skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Decision making under pressure

Education

Bachelors in Aerospace/Mechanical Eng

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a regulatory body within the South African aviation industry, is seeking a highly experienced and diligent Senior Airworthiness Inspector to be based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This critical role involves ensuring that aircraft operating within or from South Africa meet the highest standards of airworthiness and safety. You will be responsible for conducting inspections, audits, and investigations of aircraft, maintenance organizations, and aviation facilities. The ideal candidate possesses extensive knowledge of aviation regulations, aircraft systems, and maintenance practices. This position demands integrity, impartiality, and exceptional technical expertise. You will play a vital role in upholding the safety and compliance of the national aviation fleet. We are looking for an individual with strong decision-making capabilities and excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with operators, manufacturers, and other stakeholders. Your commitment to safety will be paramount in this influential role. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to maintaining the country's strong aviation safety record.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive airworthiness inspections of aircraft, including structural integrity, systems functionality, and documentation review.
• Audit maintenance organizations to ensure compliance with approved procedures and regulatory standards.
• Investigate aircraft incidents and accidents related to airworthiness issues.
• Assess and approve modifications and repairs to aircraft structures and systems.
• Monitor the overall airworthiness of registered aircraft.
• Ensure compliance with South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulations and international standards.
• Provide technical guidance and interpretation of airworthiness requirements to industry stakeholders.
• Review and approve maintenance program documentation.
• Participate in certification activities for new aircraft and components.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of all inspections and activities performed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in aircraft maintenance, design, or airworthiness engineering.
• Possession of a current and valid Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) license is highly desirable.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations, airworthiness directives, and certification processes.
• Proven experience in conducting technical audits and inspections.
• Strong understanding of aircraft systems, structures, and powerplants.
• Excellent analytical, investigative, and problem-solving skills.
• Superior communication, interpersonal, and reporting skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound judgments under pressure.
• Must be a South African citizen and able to obtain the necessary security clearances.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, including comprehensive medical aid, a pension fund, and generous leave allowances. This role provides significant career stability and the opportunity to be at the forefront of aviation safety regulation. While the role requires on-site presence in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , our client supports professional development through ongoing training and opportunities to attend industry conferences. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to public safety and shape the future of aviation in South Africa. Long-term career prospects within the regulatory framework are substantial.