Inspecting Officer (Aerodromes) (3633)

Salary: £40,215 + Car Allowance

Contract Type: Permanent – Full Time

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is the UK's aviation regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.

The Role

The role of Inspecting Officer (IO) is critical to our 'field force' and sits within the Airspace, Air traffic Management, and Aerodromes (AAA) team, which in turn is a part of the CAA's Safety and Airspace Regulation Group (SARG).

Reporting using a range of IT based tools; you will have specific accountabilities and responsibilities that will include:

• Conducting quality assurance reviews of aerodrome oversight planning cycles, and providing reports to Principal Inspectors
• Collecting and sharing data regarding oversight outcomes.
• Acting as a first point of contact regarding Aerodromes related queries.
• Planning and carrying out audits and inspections of small non-complex aerodromes against relevant requirements, either individually or as part of an audit team.
• Contribute to the Performance Based Oversight (PBO) process by recording intelligence internally and participating in Internal Review Meetings (IRM).
• Collaborating with other CAA teams to share intelligence gathered whilst active in the field.
• Using intelligence and knowledge gained from interactions with aerodrome operators to develop a risk profile.
• Evaluation of safety management systems (SMS) at small non-complex aerodromes.
• Contributing to the development of CAA policy in line with areas of expertise.
• Carrying out or contributing to investigations into aviation safety related issues such as whistle-blower disclosures or mandatory occurrence reports (MORs).

About You

First and foremost, you must be able to demonstrate strong teamworking skills. You should be motivated by the opportunity to make a valuable contribution to the safety of UK aerodromes. You should be keen to engage proactively and transparently with internal and external stakeholders and, understanding risk, you will demonstrate the ability to make sound and proportionate regulatory decisions.

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with experience of aerodrome safety management, aerodrome design and operational services at smaller non-complex aerodromes.

This role will require a degree of travel and time away from home. Following successful completion of induction training, the successful candidate will provide oversight of small non-complex aerodromes throughout the UK. 

Essential Requirements:

• Proven ability to organise and lead meetings and able to work collaboratively across various teams and departments.
• Organised, supportive and demonstrates attention to detail and time management.
• Understanding of the principles of quality assurance
• Confident at communicating at all levels across a broad set of internal and external stakeholders.
• Operator level of IT literacy (including Microsoft office suite of tools)
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable Requirements:

• Knowledge of the regulatory framework for aerodrome operations
• Experience in the field of aerodrome infrastructure design
• Knowledge of the CAA's General Aviation Policy Framework
• Proven understanding of SMS at aerodromes and the principles of their application
• Sound understanding of human factors principles.
• Ability to challenge on safety matters.

Additional Information

For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.

To be vetted we will usually expect a reasonable period of residency in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken. For this role this will need to be 3 years.

If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.

For more information on CTC and SC clearance please visit - Vetting explained - GOV.UK (

The CAA values high ethical standards and personal integrity among employees. If invited for interview you will be asked to complete a declaration of interest.

Working With Us
 

We offer a range of excellent benefits such as flexible working arrangements, free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, additional 5 days leave purchase scheme, a generous pension scheme and much more!
 

We are on a journey towards being increasingly adaptable, where our colleagues collaborate as part of cross-functional teams. This approach ensures we never stop learning together. It also means that you may become involved in activities that take you out of your day-to-day role, providing you with opportunities to develop and grow your career with us.
 

We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible working patterns, being open to having a conversation about what works for you. We know where and when we work is important in achieving a work-life balance.
 

We are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We use fair and inclusive selection approaches to hire the best person for the job based on merit alone.
 

As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview. If you require an adjustment for any reason, please let us know.
 

Our Values
 

Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone – For more information please Click Here
 

Closing Date: 22 Sept 2023

Interview Date: Anticipated early November, Date to be agreed. in person Gatwick/Crawley

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

No recruitment agencies please.