Mgr Operational Safety & Assurance

Sun Country Airlines 2021•Minneapolis, MN

14d•$60,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

Sun Country Airlines is seeking a Manager, Operational Safety & Assurance to support the ongoing development and management of Sun Country Airlines’ Safety Management System (SMS) by leading safety investigations, data analysis, and internal evaluations across all operational departments. This position serves as a key liaison between Safety, operational leadership, and regulatory agencies, ensuring compliance with FAA and IATA requirements and promoting a proactive safety culture. The Manager, Operational Safety & Assurance also oversees specialized safety programs such as Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP), the Fatigue Risk Management Program (FRMP), SMS, and the Internal Evaluation Program (IEP), driving continuous improvement and alignment with company safety objectives.

Requirements

Three to five years of experience in a fast-paced, safety-critical operational environment, preferably within an airline or maintenance organization.
Extensive knowledge of aviation safety programs and Safety Management System (SMS) principles, including risk management, safety assurance, reporting, and promotion.
Operational experience across multiple airline functions such as Dispatch, Flight Operations, Ground Operations, Inflight, and Technical Operations.
Strong understanding of aircraft systems, minimum equipment lists (MELs), dispatch procedures, and Federal Aviation Regulations.
Comprehensive knowledge of Crew Resource Management (CRM) and aviation human factors.
Excellent written communication skills with demonstrated experience in report preparation, manual development, and correspondence with regulatory agencies.
Advanced analytical and technical capabilities, including proficiency in statistical analysis and audit evaluation.
Working knowledge of FAA Part 121 and Part 5 regulatory requirements and operational standards.
Proven expertise in audit principles, risk assessment, and root cause analysis.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and safety tracking or data management systems.
Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and perform effectively under pressure.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Safety, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
Experience in a high-volume operational environment, preferably within an airline or maintenance organization.
FAA certification as an Aircraft Dispatcher, Pilot, or Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic.
Safety professional certifications, ICAO or IATA SMS certifications, root cause or investigation certifications.
OSHA 10 or 30 hour certifications, or data analytics certifications

Responsibilities

Oversight of safety management processes within operational departments.
Act as a subject matter expert for SMS throughout the organization.
Support in the execution, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the Company’s Safety Management System (SMS).
Develop and propose enhancements to safety policies, procedures, and manuals in alignment with regulations and industry best practices.
Mentor Safety Analysts by providing guidance, sharing expertise, and supporting the development of analytical and investigative skills.
Lead investigations of operational events and serve as an auditor within the Internal Evaluation Program (IEP).
Collect, analyze and interpret safety data to identify hazards, emerging risks, and systemic trends.
Manage the administration of safety databases, develop analytical models, and generate performance reports for senior leadership.
Oversee the Safety Assurance function through risk assessments, corrective action tracking, and performance monitoring.
Serve as a liaison for external audits, including IATA and DOD, and support voluntary regulatory programs such as VDRP.
Coordinate responses to Letters of Investigation (LOIs) and conduct follow-up audits to verify corrective actions.
Develop safety alerts/newsletters, studies, and promotional materials to communicate safety trends and lessons learned.
Lead Safety Promotion campaigns.
Promote Just Culture principles and safety engagement across all departments.
Serve as a technical expert on ProSafeT software platform.
Participate in airline industry meetings and collaborate with regulatory and industry partners to identify and share best practices.
Represent Safety in cross-functional working groups.
Maintain readiness to support safety matters on a 24/7 on-call basis.
Administer and manage ASAP for applicable employee groups; facilitate Event Review Committees (ERC), track corrective actions, and ensure compliance with the MOU.
Administer and manage the Fatigue Risk Management Program (FRMP); oversee fatigue reporting, data analysis, and awareness training.
Develop, implement, and maintain SMS processes and training programs for company personnel; lead SMS awareness and promotion efforts.
Oversee audit planning, checklist management, and completion tracking to ensure program compliance and quality assurance

Benefits

Comprehensive benefit package including dental and vision PPO and high-deductible health plans
Health savings accounts (HSA and FSA)
Dependent Care
Starting day one free standby and discounted travel privileges for employees, family, & friends
401(k) match
Paid Time Off
Paid holidays
Life and AD&D Insurance
Employee Assistance Program including counseling for employees and their family
Fitness incentive and Stop Smoking Support