Director of Safety - Aviation

Position Overview

Tenax Aerospace seeks a seasoned and driven Director of Safety to oversee, enhance, and lead the company’s Safety Management System (SMS) while cultivating a robust safety culture. This role requires a professional with deep aviation safety expertise in regulatory adherence, risk mitigation, safety assurance, incident investigations, and promoting organizational safety.

Reporting directly to the Director of Flight Operations and with direct interface to executive management, the Director of Safety serves as the primary expert on aviation safety matters. The role ensures compliance with FAA rules including 14 CFR Part 5 for SMS, supports operational excellence across departments, and collaborates to proactively manage hazards and risks.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and continuously enhance the FAA-compliant Safety Management System (SMS) of the company
• Create, evaluate, and update SMS policies, procedures, and documentation
• Track SMS performance through key safety indicators, data analysis, and continuous improvement projects
• Organize internal audits, management reviews, and regulatory evaluations of the SMS
• Maintain adherence to FAA regulations, corporate policies, and best industry practices
• Stay aware of regulatory changes and adjust safety programs accordingly
• Oversee company-wide safety programs and third-party safety vendor relationships
• Review and sustain the Emergency Response Plan (ERP), including planning and assessing drills
• Lead hazard identification and perform risk assessments along with mitigation activities
• Conduct safety investigations using recognized root-cause methods and drive corrective/preventive actions
• Manage safety performance tracking and develop executive safety reports and dashboards
• Strengthen a safety culture based on accountability, openness, and learning
• Lead safety committees and forums to support ongoing safety engagement
• Encourage and support workforce participation in safety reporting and improvements via a just culture
• Work closely with leaders to embed safety into operational and business practices
• Coach management on safety leadership, risk management, and SMS concepts
• Implement or supervise safety education and awareness initiatives

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Aviation Safety, Safety Management, Engineering, or related area
• At least 5 years of advancing experience in aviation safety, including leadership roles
• Proven experience managing safety management or similar systems
• Comprehensive knowledge of 14 CFR Part 5, FAA guidance, Advisory Circulars, and SMS fundamentals
• Strong expertise in aviation risk management and safety investigation methods
• Experience performing safety audits, inspections, and ensuring regulatory compliance
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities
• Superior written and verbal communication skills
• Track record of enhancing safety culture throughout an organization
• Proficient with safety reporting tools and Microsoft Office suite

Preferred Credentials

• Certifications such as Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Aviation Manager (CAM), Associate Safety Professional (ASP), or equivalent
• Experience with FAA Part 135, Part 145, or Part 91 operational regulations