Manager, SMS (Onsite)

About the Role

The SMS Manager contributes to the continuous improvement of safety at AAR Components by supporting the management of its Safety Management System (SMS). This role is responsible for performing functions related to the SMS, such as investigations and audits, and works closely with the Quality team. The SMS Manager reports to the Director of Quality and has no direct reports. This is an office-based position, Monday through Friday.

Responsibilities

• Deploy and maintain the four core SMS pillars: Safety Policy, Safety Risk Management, Safety Assurance, and Safety Promotion.
• Design, update, and manage the organization-wide SMS framework in accordance with guidelines such as FAA 14 CFR Part 5, ICAO Doc 9859, and EASA standards.
• Facilitate hazard identification, conduct risk assessments, and coordinate mitigation strategies with operational departments and Safety Review Boards (SRB).
• Lead or support the investigation of accidents, incidents, and near-misses to identify root causes and implement corrective and preventive action plans (CAP).
• Serve as the primary point of contact for regulatory bodies and governing authorities like the FAA, NTSB, ICAO, or EASA.
• Drive a just culture and safety awareness through employee training, safety newsletters, and cross-functional communication.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aviation management, aerospace engineering, occupational health and safety, or a related field (or equivalent practical or military experience).
• Minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in aviation operations, maintenance, air traffic control, or quality/safety assurance.
• Deep understanding of ICAO, FAA, or EASA SMS frameworks, safety policy, and auditing principles.
• Specialized SMS training courses, FAA safety certificates, or industry designations (such as an NBAA Safety Manager Certificate) are preferred.
• Strong analytical and root-cause analysis skills.
• Project management and organizational capabilities.
• Ability to make independent decisions and flag or halt unsafe operations.

Year One Critical Success Factors

• Establish a realistic, phased SMS Implementation Plan aligned with local civil aviation authority requirements (e.g., FAA, EASA, ICAO) and secure formal acceptance.
• Complete a baseline assessment of the organization’s existing safety structures against regulatory requirements, focusing on identifying effective practices to avoid reinvention.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus package.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Generous paid time off program.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The role requires the ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and move about the facility. The work environment is a traditional office setting. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Location: Grand Prairie, Texas, United States. Schedule: Full-time, Exempt.