System Safety Manager

Position: System Safety Manager (Permanent)
System Safety Manager

Bristol - Hybrid Working

We are currently seeking an experienced System Safety Manager to join a highly technical engineering environment within the defence and aerospace domain. This is a key role for a recognised subject-matter expert who can lead system safety, environmental engineering, and airworthiness activities across complex programmes.

The Opportunity

You will play a pivotal role in shaping and assuring system safety and environmental governance across multiple projects, working closely with engineering teams, project leaders, and customers. This position offers real influence across the full design and development lifecycle, from early requirements through to qualification, certification, and in-service support.

Key Responsibilities

Own and implement system safety and environmental engineering processes, ensuring compliance with statutory, contractual, and governance requirements
Lead and conduct safety and environmental audits in line with Def Stan
Oversee the development of safety artefacts including SEMPs, Hazard Logs, and Safety & Environmental Case Reports
Support and challenge project teams to ensure safety and environmental requirements are embedded ahead of design reviews
Present safety and environmental evidence at design reviews, audits, and customer engagements
Drive continuous improvement across engineering and business processes
Support and develop the capability of safety and environmental engineers, promoting a strong safety culture
Provide airworthiness expertise, including responsibilities aligned to MAA Regulatory Articles 1014 and 5850

About You

You are a confident, credible safety professional with extensive experience in defence and/or aerospace programmes, comfortable operating at both strategic and hands-on levels.

You will bring:

Expert knowledge of system safety and environmental management within regulated defence environments
Strong experience across the full engineering lifecycle, including independent compliance and design assurance
Previous formal safety and/or airworthiness delegation
Detailed working knowledge of defence and aerospace standards
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex safety arguments clearly and persuasively
A proactive, resilient mindset with a passion for continuous improvement and high standards

Security Requirements

SC clearance (or eligibility to obtain)
British nationality
No dual nationality (due to regulatory constraints)

Why Apply?

High-impact, technically challenging role
Opportunity to shape safety strategy and influence major programmes
Collaborative engineering culture with a strong emphasis on quality and compliance
Long-term career development in a regulated, safety-critical environment

If you're looking to take the lead in system safety and airworthiness within complex defence programmes, we'd love to hear from you. Apply directly or message for a confidential discussion