Safety Management System Leader

Job Description Summary

The Safety Management System (SMS) Leader is responsible for ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards, driving continuous improvement, and supporting the implementation and maintenance of the Safety Management System for the Durham Engine Facility. This position plays a critical role in promoting a culture of safety, quality, and operational excellence, aligning with GE Aerospace's SQDC priorities and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Subject Matter Expert – Serve as the focal point for the site SMS, ensuring effective implementation across all areas. Maintain knowledge of external regulations.

• SMS Leadership – Create and maintain the site SMS Manual, ensuring alignment with GE Aerospace SMS standardization.

• Compliance and Auditing – Develop deep knowledge of company-wide SMS systems and site SMS interactions within AS9100 and National Aviation Authority Regulations (e.g., 14 CFR Part
  5). Coach others to promote compliance with regulations and policies. Conduct regular safety audits and inspections to ensure adherence to SMS requirements.

• Flight Deck – Support daily management and continuous improvement. Lead problem-solving efforts to deliver systemic changes that address root cause findings and ensure corrective actions are effective and sustainable.

• Safety Risk Management – Identify risks through change management and concern reporting. Escalate and mitigate risks as required.

• Incident Investigation and Reporting – Prepare and submit safety performance reports to the Accountable Manager, safety review board, and regulatory authorities as required.

• Performance Monitoring and Improvement – Track and analyze safety performance metrics to identify trends and areas for improvement. Facilitate the independent review of investigations and just culture. Support customer and regulatory audits.

• Training and Awareness – Collaborate with the local training team to provide SMS and Human Factors training to employees across all levels of the site. Promote safety awareness and a culture of continuous improvement.

• Collaboration and Communication – Lead safety improvement initiatives; serve as regulatory liaison, coordinate cross-site lessons learned to address systemic issues, and ensure enterprise alignment with SMS objectives.

• Bachelor’s Degree accredited college or university (or a high school diploma / GED with a minimum of 4 years of technical/manufacturing/EHS program experience)

• Minimum of 3 years of technical/manufacturing/EHS program experience

• Deep knowledge of Safety Management Systems (SMS) and ICAO standards; comprehensive understanding of aviation regulations with emphasis on FAA Part 21 Operations.

• Proven ability to influence and collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams in dynamic environments

• Experience with aircraft engine assembly methods and practices

• Background in aerospace/aviation quality systems and compliance

• Demonstrated role flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities

• Self-starter who operates independently while actively supporting team objectives

• Proficient with root cause analysis and structured problem-solving tools

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; experienced engaging senior leaders, regulators, and customer/operator representatives

GE Aerospace offers comprehensive benefits and programs to support your health and, along with programs like Health Ahead, your physical, emotional, financial and social wellbeing. Healthcare benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach from GE Aerospace; and the Employee Assistance Program, which provides 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Aerospace Retirement Savings Plan, a 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants.

Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life…