Manager, Safety & SMS
About The Position
We are seeking an experienced and strategic Manager, Safety & SMS to lead safety excellence across our airport operations. This role is essential to maintaining our Airport Operating Certificate, strengthening our Safety Management System (SMS), and fostering a proactive, collaborative safety culture across the organization. It is a high‑impact position within one of Canada’s fastest‑growing cargo and passenger airports. The Manager, Safety & SMS oversees the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of YHM’s Safety Management System and workplace health and safety programs. Working closely with the Accountable Executive, Transport Canada, airlines, tenants, contractors, and the Vantage Airport Group network, this role ensures that airport operations remain safe, efficient, and fully compliant with regulatory requirements. You will play a key role in shaping safety strategy, driving performance, and supporting operational excellence. This position is ideal for a safety‑driven aviation professional with strong regulatory knowledge, analytical capability, and a commitment to building and sustaining a strong safety culture. If you thrive in an environment focused on continuous improvement, operational leadership, and regulatory compliance, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the future of Hamilton International Airport.
Requirements
- Minimum 7+ years of aviation or airport operations experience, including regulatory compliance
- Proven experience leading safety or security programs in a complex operational environment
- Ability to obtain and maintain: Aeronautical Radio License, Airside Vehicle Operator Permit (AVOP), Required Airport Security Clearance
- Strong understanding of CARs, CASRs, and Transport Canada regulatory frameworks
- Skilled in root cause analysis, hazard identification, and risk assessment
- Ability to evaluate technical data, identify trends, and recommend improvements
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, databases, and data analysis tools
- Ability to interpret legislative and technical information
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and collaborate effectively
- High attention to detail and commitment to accurate documentation
- Strong decision‑making and problem‑solving abilities
- Exceptional organizational and time‑management skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to change
Nice To Haves
- Certificate or Diploma in Aviation Safety
Responsibilities
- Manage the Airport SMS Manual and ensure policies and procedures remain current and compliant
- Support the Accountable Executive in the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of SMS processes
- Review daily incident reports and determine SMS reporting requirements
- Lead the development and monitoring of annual airport safety goals
- Attend SMS training and remain current with industry best practices
- Ensure compliance with CARs, CASRs, Transport Canada audits, and contractual obligations
- Manage the quality assurance audit program and conduct internal audits
- Provide timely reporting to Executives on safety performance, risks, and recommended actions
- Interpret Transport Canada Advisory Circulars and other regulatory documents
- Lead investigations of aviation safety occurrences, including hazard identification, risk assessments, and root cause analysis
- Develop corrective action plans and ensure timely completion
- Support the Executive Managing Director with YHM’s Enterprise Risk Management program
- Deliver SMS‑related training and support operational teams
- Chair safety committees, working groups, and stakeholder meetings
- Build and maintain strong relationships with Transport Canada, airlines, tenants, and contractors
- Prepare technical and non‑technical documents, reports, and presentations
- Provide SMS and safety support across the Vantage network, including documentation reviews, audits, and emergency exercise support
- Participate in network initiatives and contribute to shared safety standards
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Career progression
- Access to a global team of talented professionals
- Boundless opportunities to make your mark within our organization
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
