Senior Aviation Safety Manager — SMS & Compliance Leader

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Life insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Relocation assistance

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Aviation Safety Manager to oversee safety initiatives in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA. You will lead the design and maintenance of the Safety Management System (SMS), drive risk assessments, and manage investigations to ensure regulatory compliance and open safety communication across operations.

The role requires at least 8 years of aviation safety experience, strong leadership, and a proven track record in incident analysis.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in aviation-related field.
• Minimum of 8 years in aviation safety management with SMS focus.
• Professional safety certifications such as ISAGO or IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation regulations and risk assessment methods.
• Proven experience in incident investigation and root cause analysis.
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a demanding environment in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA.
• Proficiency with safety management software.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the SMS in line with regulatory requirements.
• Conduct comprehensive safety risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Lead and manage incident investigations with root cause analysis.
• Develop and deliver safety training across all personnel levels.
• Promote a positive safety culture through proactive communication.
• Monitor KPIs and safety audits to drive improvements.
• Ensure compliance with national and international aviation regulations.
• Liaise with SACAA and other authorities on safety matters.
• Manage the safety reporting system and analyze data for trends.
• Provide expert safety advice to senior management and operations.

Skills

Aviation safety management

Regulatory compliance

Incident investigation

Risk assessment

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's in Aviation Management

Tools

Safety management software

Job description

Placements24 invites a Senior Aviation Safety Manager to oversee safety initiatives in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA. You will lead the design and maintenance of the Safety Management System (SMS), drive risk assessments, and manage investigations to ensure regulatory compliance and open safety communication across operations.

The role requires at least 8 years of aviation safety experience, strong leadership, and a proven track record in incident analysis.