Safety Management System Manager

Safety Management System (SMS) Manager

AAR Corp. is a global aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions company that employs more than 6,000 people across over 60 sites in over 20 countries. Headquartered in the Chicago, Illinois area, AAR supports commercial and government customers in more than 100 countries through four operating segments: Parts Supply, Integrated Solutions, Repair and Engineering and Expeditionary Services.

AAR's purpose is to empower people to build innovative aerospace solutions today so you can safely reach your destination tomorrow. The company's mission is to go above and beyond to provide value-driven aerospace aftermarket solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers worldwide. AAR constantly searches for the right thing to do for its customers, employees, partners and for society.

The SMS Manager is responsible for leading the implementation, maintenance, analysis, and communication of safety data, as well as the continuous improvement of the Safety Management System (SMS) at the facility. This role ensures compliance with ICAO Annex 19, FAA Part 5, and EASA regulations with a particular emphasis on effective safety communication and promotion throughout the organization.

This role reports to the Accountable Executive and the VP of Corporate Safety, and requires close coordination with the local GM, VP of Quality and Safety, Chief Inspector, EHS Director, and QA Manager.

What You Will Be Responsible For

• SMS Program Management
• Maintain and oversee the electronic safety data system (APRISe) for hazard, incident, and accident reporting, ensuring data integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure data integrity, accessibility, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Collect, process, and analyze safety data to identify trends, emerging risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare dashboards, statistical reports, and presentations for senior management and regulatory authorities.
• Support management and quality teams with actionable safety insights and recommendations.
• Safety Communication & Promotion
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve safety communication strategies to ensure all employees are informed and engaged in the SMS.
• Develop data-driven safety communication materials.
• Create and disseminate safety-related documentation, including SMS bulletins, maintenance alerts, monthly safety reports, and committee meeting minutes.
• Lead safety promotion initiatives, including campaigns, workshops, and training sessions, to foster a proactive safety culture.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for safety-related communications with internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory authorities and customers.
• Analyze and communicate safety data to identify trends, emerging risks, and performance.
• Hazard Identification & Risk Management
• Facilitate hazard identification, risk assessment, and mitigation activities in collaboration with operational teams.
• Conduct investigations of safety-related incidents, accidents, and hazards, and audit the effectiveness of corrective actions.
• Administer company safety surveys and analyze results to inform safety strategies.
• Regulatory Compliance
• Ensure SMS processes and documentation meet FAA Part 5 and EASA 145 requirements, as well as ICAO Annex 19 standards.
• Support internal and external audits, providing accurate and timely data reporting.
• Monitor corrective actions and ensure timely closure of safety events.
• Training & Culture Building
• Develop and deliver SMS-related training to staff, promoting a data-literate and safety-conscious workforce.
• Actively participate in management reviews of the SMS and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support SMS data training to staff and promote a data-literate safety culture.
• Interpret SMS data and communicate actionable insights.
• Confidentiality & Integrity
• Maintain the confidentiality of organizational safety reporting systems and sensitive safety data.
• Other Duties
• Support the Continuous Improvement and Health & Safety teams as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by senior leadership.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum college diploma in a related field (e.g., safety, communications, aviation management) and/or equivalent work experience.
• Demonstrated experience in safety communication, safety management systems, or regulatory compliance within an aviation or MRO environment.
• Strong analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with FAA Part 5, EASA 145, and ICAO Annex 19 SMS requirements.

The rewards of your career at AAR go far beyond just your salary:

• Competitive salary and quarterly bonus package
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Generous paid time off program
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities

AAR provides accommodation in accordance with applicable laws through all stages of the hiring process. If you require accommodation for any part of the application and/or hiring process, please advise Human Resources.