Manager, Flight Operations SMS

Overview

The Manager, Flight Operations SMS plays a key operational role in managing the Flight Operations Safety Management System (SMS) and administering systems related to Flight Operations Safety. The role is hands-on and detail-focused, requiring strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of flight operations. It drives safety by managing audits, both internal and external to the company. This position prepares and issues reports on flight operations audit activities keeping flight operations management apprised of process measurements and SMS performance.

The manager works closely with internal departments and regulatory partners to ensure FAA compliance and the proactive management of operational risk.

• Manages the development of Flight Operations leadership yearly SMS training to included: curriculum development, scheduling and tracking required departmental training.
• Organizes and conducts pre-audits for outside IOSA and DoD audits. Acts as liaison with auditors, to conduct, follow-up, and successfully complete outside Inspections.
• Manages the auditor training program for the Flight Operations Standards department to provide a systematic approach for preparing and evaluating SRC Qualified Auditors with qualifications needed to conduct their duties.
• Evaluate auditor’s qualifications and training records on an annual basis and if acceptable, grant the Auditor authorization to conduct audits. Track requirement to perform at least one audit annually to maintain currency.
• Plans, coordinates, organizes, and marshals resources in preparation for audits.
• Conducts internal audits of Flight Operations in accordance with QAP schedule.
• Manages Flight Operations Review system for document issuances and changes for compliance/conformance with CFR, SMS, IOSA, DoD and established policies, procedures, instructions, information, standards, and regulations.
• Prepares and issues reports on flight operations audit activities to include process measurements and analyses.
• Manages FQAP annual plan ensuring deadlines are met and audit activities are communicated to Flt Operations leadership.
• Reviews and analyzes Safety Risk Assessment control implementations as part of our enhanced safety attribute “Process Measurement”.
• Responsible for the creation of the Safety Risk Assessment Standard Operating Procedures Manual content.
• Administrates the Flight Operations Safety Risk Assessment (SRA) database.
• Assists with special projects or initiatives as assigned by the Sr. Manager, Flight Operations Safety Assurance contributing expertise in safety, regulatory compliance, and operational risk management to improve Flight Operations programs and processes.
• Performs other duties assigned simultaneously by Sr. Director, Certificate Management.

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Aeronautics, Safety, Engineering, or a related field or equivalent years of experience
• Minimum 5 years of experience in the aviation industry, preferably within Flight Operation or Safety
• Extensive knowledge of FAA regulations, 14 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) for Part 121 operations
• Demonstrated experience supporting or administering a Safety Management System (SMS) in an operational environment is a plus
• Familiarity with audit processes and quality assurance principles in a regulated aviation environment
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or equivalent)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for data analysis, technical documentation, reporting, and cross-functional communication in support of safety and regulatory compliance.
• Proficiency in Veoci or other operational platforms to facilitate real-time communication and decision-making.
• Ability to champion cross-departmental operational solutions

Special demands:

• Minimum 10% travel required
• Must be available to work weekends and holidays as needed to support a 24-hour operational environment.

Skills:

• Exceptional communication skills (e.g., verbal, written, and listening), with the ability to communicate complex processes to internal and external stakeholders.
• Flexibility to adapt to a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work under…