Senior Aviation Project Manager

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Senior Aviation Project Manager to lead major projects from initiation to completion in Centurion, Gauteng, spanning aircraft development, infrastructure upgrades, and operational improvements.

You will define project scope, budgets, schedules, and risks while coordinating cross-functional teams of engineers, technicians, and operations staff, ensuring safe, compliant delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Civil) or related field.
• Master's degree or PMP certification desired.
• Minimum 8 years of project management experience, aviation-focused.
• Proven track record delivering complex aviation projects on time and within budget.
• Strong understanding of aviation operations, regulations, and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency with project management software (MS Project, Primavera).

Responsibilities

• Manage full lifecycle of aviation projects from planning to closure.
• Define scope, goals, deliverables, and success criteria with stakeholders.
• Develop and manage budgets, timelines, and resources.
• Lead cross-functional teams of engineers, technicians, and operations staff.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues.
• Ensure adherence to aviation standards and safety regulations.
• Communicate progress and key decisions to stakeholders at all levels.
• Manage vendor relationships and contract negotiations as required.
• Conduct post-project evaluations and capture lessons learned.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Project planning

Risk management

Budgeting

Communication

Aviation operations knowledge

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Master's degree or PMP certification

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic force in the aviation industry, is seeking an experienced and results-oriented Senior Aviation Project Manager to lead significant projects from initiation to completion in Centurion, Gauteng . This role requires a leader with a comprehensive understanding of aviation project lifecycles, including aircraft development, infrastructure upgrades, or operational improvements. You will be responsible for defining project scope, managing budgets, coordinating cross-functional teams, mitigating risks, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-value aviation initiatives. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with a proven ability to manage complex projects in a demanding environment. This is a key role to drive impactful aviation advancements in Centurion, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of aviation projects, from planning and execution to monitoring, control, and closure.
• Define project scope, goals, deliverables, and success criteria in collaboration with senior management and stakeholders.
• Develop and manage project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.
• Lead and motivate cross-functional project teams, including engineers, technicians, and operational staff.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks and issues.
• Ensure all projects adhere to aviation industry standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements.
• Communicate project progress, status, and key decisions to stakeholders at all levels.
• Manage vendor relationships and contract negotiations as required.
• Conduct post-project evaluations and identify lessons learned for future projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Civil), Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or PMP certification is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in project management, with a significant portion dedicated to the aviation sector.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex aviation projects on time and within budget.
• Strong understanding of aviation operations, regulations, and industry best practices.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and prioritize effectively.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive benefits plan encompassing medical aid, retirement fund, and other allowances. This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within the aviation industry. You will have the chance to work on high-profile projects and contribute to the strategic direction of aviation development in Centurion, Gauteng . Join a dynamic and forward-thinking organization committed to excellence and innovation in aviation.