Senior Aviation Security Specialist

Placements24; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Career development

Leadership role

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Aviation Security Specialist to lead the development and execution of comprehensive airport security strategies at a major Johannesburg hub. The role demands extensive experience with aviation security regulations, threat assessment, and risk management, and involves directing a security team across access control, screening, surveillance, and incident response.

The candidate will liaise with government agencies, airlines, and stakeholders, oversee equipment

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Criminology, Aviation Management, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in aviation security with a senior track record.
• In-depth knowledge of aviation security principles, regulations, and best practices.
• Experience in threat assessment, risk management, and incident investigation.
• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in security management systems and technologies.
• Excellent analytical, reporting, and presentation abilities.
• Ability to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances and relocate to Johannesburg.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage airport security policies, procedures, and contingency plans per ICAO Annex 17 and IATA guidelines.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and threat analyses to identify vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies.
• Oversee and manage security operations, including access control, screening, surveillance, and response protocols.
• Lead and train a team of security personnel to high performance and compliance.
• Liaise with government agencies, law enforcement, airlines, and stakeholders to coordinate security efforts.
• Manage security equipment and technology, including CCTV, X-ray scanners, and access control systems.
• Investigate security incidents, breaches, and suspicious activities; prepare reports and corrective actions.
• Develop and deliver security awareness training for airport staff and personnel.
• Ensure compliance with aviation security legislation and audit requirements.

Skills

Threat assessment

Risk management

Incident investigation

Leadership

Communication

Policy development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Criminology, Aviation Management, or related

Tools

Security management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading international airport services provider, is seeking a highly experienced and vigilant Senior Aviation Security Specialist to join their prestigious operations in Johannesburg, Gauteng . This critical role involves developing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive security strategies and protocols to ensure the safety and security of passengers, staff, aircraft, and airport infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of aviation security regulations, threat assessment, and risk management. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute significantly to the security landscape of one of Africa's busiest airports in Johannesburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage airport security policies, procedures, and contingency plans in accordance with national and international aviation security regulations (e.g., ICAO Annex 17, IATA guidelines).


• Conduct regular security risk assessments and threat analyses to identify potential vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies.


• Oversee and manage security operations, including access control, screening processes, surveillance, and response protocols.


• Lead and train a team of security personnel, ensuring high standards of performance, professionalism, and compliance.


• Liaise with government agencies, law enforcement, airlines, and other stakeholders to coordinate security efforts and intelligence sharing.


• Manage and maintain security equipment and technology, including CCTV systems, X-ray scanners, and access control systems.


• Investigate security incidents, breaches, and suspicious activities, preparing detailed reports and recommending corrective actions.


• Develop and deliver security awareness training programs for airport staff and relevant personnel.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation security legislation and audit requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Criminology, Aviation Management, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in aviation security, with a proven track record in a senior role.


• In-depth knowledge of aviation security principles, regulations, and best practices.


• Experience in threat assessment, risk management, and incident investigation.


• Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills.


• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.


• Proficiency in security management systems and technologies.


• Exceptional communication, reporting, and presentation skills.


• Must be able to obtain and maintain necessary security clearances and background checks.


• Resident in or willing to relocate to Johannesburg, Gauteng .

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary package of R , commensurate with extensive experience and expertise.


• Comprehensive health insurance, retirement fund, and other employee benefits.


• The opportunity to work in a high-stakes, critical infrastructure environment.


• Leadership role in ensuring the security of a major international aviation hub.


• Continuous professional development and training opportunities in aviation security.


• A challenging and rewarding career in a vital industry.