Flight Inspection Trainee Opportunity at SACAA

Are you interested in making South African skies safer for all? The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has opened a career pathway as a Flight Inspection Trainee. Based in Midrand, this unique position offers you hands-on training, technical exposure, and a path to becoming a crucial part of the aviation safety framework. As a Flight Inspection Trainee, you’ll be part of a professional team tasked with maintaining and calibrating air navigation systems to ICAO standards, ensuring safe aviation operations.

Inspection Trainee Job Overview

• Job Title: Flight Inspection Trainee
• Location: Midrand, South Africa
• Reference Number: SA-276
• Contract Duration: 1 – 2 years
• Work Level: Junior
• Salary: Market Related
• Closing Date: 31 October 2024
• Employment Type: Contract
• Employment Equity Position: Yes

Inspection Trainee Job Description

The Flight Inspection Trainee is essential in training to conduct flight inspections and ensuring the calibration of air navigation systems per the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. This role provides in-depth experience in aviation safety protocols and equipment management, paving the way for an impactful career in aviation. From mission planning to technical support, trainees learn it all to become valuable aviation experts.

Key Responsibilities

The training program as a Flight Inspection Trainee is extensive, covering several responsibilities that ensure aviation safety and smooth operations. Here are the main duties and functions of this role:

1. Flight Inspection Mission Planning

• Preparation and Execution: Assist in planning and preparing flight inspection missions to meet safety requirements.
• Database Maintenance: Maintain up-to-date records of all air navigation systems and their inspection data.

2. Executing Flight Inspection Missions

• Data Collection: Gather essential data during missions, analyze it for safety concerns, and use it for technical reporting.
• System Adjustment: Adjust navigation systems to align with ICAO recommendations, ensuring all parameters promote safe flight operations.
• Collaborate with Maintenance Teams: Coordinate with engineering and maintenance personnel to correct any issues found during inspections, rechecking navigation aids, and ensuring all safety hazards are addressed.

3. Reporting and Documentation

• Data Compilation: Collect and organize data for generating reports on air navigation systems.
• Accurate Reporting: Ensure that all flight inspection reports are accurate and comprehensive, then archive them in the SACAA database for reference.
• NOTAMs Issuance: Prescribe the issuance of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) and non-compliance reports as a result of inspections, documenting any mission findings or required corrections.

4. Flight Inspection System Management

• Calibrations: Conduct calibration of receivers and keep the Flight Inspection System (FIS) software and hardware up-to-date in line with ISO standards.
• Maintenance: Modify and maintain FIS to meet manufacturer standards, the SACAA’s Manual of Procedures, and overall aviation safety regulations.

5. Safety and Quality Assurance

• Compliance with ICAO Standards: All flight inspection activities must adhere to ICAO, ISO, and airworthiness regulations, as well as the approved SACAA procedures.
• Hazard Reporting: Document and report any hazards encountered during inspections, with recommendations for safety standards to enhance the safety and reliability of navigational aids.

6. Technical Support and Client Communication

• Client System Support: Offer technical support and recommendations for client aviation systems, ensuring that they remain safe and fully operational.
• Respond to Requests: Address any specific client requests regarding the upkeep and development of their systems, maintaining consistent and helpful communication.

7. Promoting Safety Awareness

• Stakeholder Engagement: Actively promote a positive and safety-conscious image of the Flight Inspection Unit (FIU) to all stakeholders through safety awareness programs and outreach.

Read more: How to Research a Company Before an Interview: A Step-by-Step Guide

Qualifications and Requirements

To be considered for the Flight Inspection Trainee position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Minimum Requirements:

• Educational Requirement: National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Light Current) – NQF level 6.

Ideal Additional Qualifications:

• Preferred Qualification: B Tech in Electrical Engineering (Light Current).

Experience:

• Relevant Experience: A minimum of one year in Air Communication and Navigational Systems or CNS (Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance) experience.
• Medical Fitness: Successful candidates will need to pass a medical fitness test to ensure they can meet the demands of flying requirements.

Why Choose a Career with SACAA?

The SACAA offers an excellent platform to develop skills in the field of aviation safety. This opportunity is ideal for individuals with a passion for engineering and a strong interest in aviation safety standards. This role not only provides a unique technical experience but also an extensive training program designed to set you up for a meaningful career in the aviation sector.

Additional Benefits Include:

• Comprehensive on-the-job training with industry experts.
• Exposure to ICAO standards and international aviation regulations.
• Hands-on experience in air navigation systems calibration and flight inspections.
• Working within a reputable government entity that values safety, quality, and professional growth.

Recommended for you: How to Write a Cover Letter to Accompany Your CV

How to Apply

To apply for this position:

1. Visit the SACAA Careers Portal and search for Reference Number SA-276.
2. Complete the online application form and submit all required documents, including your educational credentials and any relevant experience certifications.
3. Ensure that your application is submitted by 31 October 2024.

After applying, please note that if you have not been contacted by SACAA within 90 days of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.

If you’re passionate about aviation safety and have the technical background to match, the Flight Inspection Trainee opportunity at SACAA could be the ideal start for you. This position offers valuable training, a chance to work with aviation experts, and the opportunity to contribute to making South Africa’s skies safer.