Senior Aviation Safety Leader – SMS & Investigations

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Industry conferences

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks an Aviation Safety Manager to lead our SMS and safety initiatives across operations. This senior role requires deep regulatory knowledge (ICAO Annex 19, SACAA, EASA/FAA), risk management, and incident investigation expertise, with a focus on building a robust safety culture.

You will develop and implement safety policies, monitor SPIs/KRIs, conduct audits, mentor staff, liaise with authorities, and manage the safety budget.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in aviation safety management, regulatory compliance, or related operational role.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with safety management software and data analysis tools.
• Proven experience in conducting accident/incident investigations and root cause analysis.
• Ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Relevant professional safety certifications are a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Safety Management System (SMS) in line with national and international aviation regulations.
• Establish and monitor safety performance indicators (SPIs) and key risk indicators (KRIs).
• Oversee hazard identification, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies.
• Lead accident and incident investigations including root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Conduct regular safety audits and inspections across all operations.
• Develop and deliver safety training programs for all staff levels.
• Promote a proactive safety culture through effective communication and engagement.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities (e.g., SA-CAA) on safety matters and ensure compliance.
• Manage the safety department budget and resources.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Safety software

Data analysis tools

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management / Aerospace Engineering

Master's degree or post-graduate qualification

Professional safety certifications

Tools

Safety management software

Data analysis tools

Job description

Placements24 in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, seeks an Aviation Safety Manager to lead our SMS and safety initiatives across operations. This senior role requires deep regulatory knowledge (ICAO Annex 19, SACAA, EASA/FAA), risk management, and incident investigation expertise, with a focus on building a robust safety culture.

You will develop and implement safety policies, monitor SPIs/KRIs, conduct audits, mentor staff, liaise with authorities, and manage the safety budget.