Inspector - Air Traffic Management; ATM

Overview

Inspector - Air Traffic Management (ATM) role at Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Salary: £52,143 up to £58,746 per annum dependent upon experience. Contract Type:
Permanent, Full-time. Security Level: SC.

Location:

Stirling, Manchester or Gatwick. Visa Restrictions:
This position does not offer visa sponsorship.

We are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator with a mission to enable the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards. We value adaptability and a commitment to safety in a dynamic aviation environment.

The post holder is accountable to the Principal Inspector Air Traffic Management (ATM) for the regulatory oversight of ATM arrangements at allocated ANSPs / designated sites and, under UK legislation (including the UK Air Navigation Order) and applicable international standards, is responsible for ensuring compliance and safety. Experience or knowledge of en-route centre operations and an associated safety or operations role is desirable.

The post holder is accountable to the Principal Inspector (ATM) for:

• Planning and conducting audits and inspections as part of regulatory oversight of ANSPs and ATM Providers, in accordance with UK legislation and the UK ANO.
• Contributing to the Performance-Based Oversight process, ensuring shared intelligence on industry performance supports safety outcomes and aligns with Better Regulation principles.
• Collaborating within the department to meet performance objectives within timescales.
• Providing expert input in discussions on regulatory policy and procedures related to ATM.
• Acting as deputy for the Principal Inspector when required.
• Supporting cost-effective safety regulation within the Travel and Related Expenses budget.
• Cooperating with other functional areas, external organisations, other regulators, and government bodies to ensure optimal safety regulation.
• Participating in incident investigations as a team member when required.
• Supporting CAA International (CAAi) contracts as directed.
• Contributing to the training and development of new Inspecting Officers and Inspectors, including supervising training activities and signing off elements of training syllabi where appropriate.

Essential requirements include:

• Detailed understanding of safety regulatory requirements related to planning, provision, and operation of ATM systems and services in the UK, including knowledge of the following documents: UK Regulation No. 2017/373; CAP 670; CAP 760; CAP 452; relevant sections of CAP 413; the UK Air Navigation Order (ANO); and a solid understanding of Safety and Quality Management principles.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to deliver technical briefings to diverse audiences; comfortable presenting in various formats and articulating complex issues clearly.

Desirable requirements include:

• Experience in providing or regulating ATM services or systems under a Safety Management System (SMS).
• Ability to critically assess SMS effectiveness; training in risk management techniques and auditing skills; experience in a safety or operations role (non-ATCO) at an en-route centre is highly desirable.

For appointments requiring access to operationally sensitive information, National Security Vetting is required. Residency in the UK for vetting is commonly 5 years.

If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application. For more information on CTC and SC clearance, see  Vetting explained. For BPSS clearance information, see BPSS clearance.

The CAA values high ethical standards and personal integrity. If invited for interview, you may be asked to complete a declaration of interest.

The CAA will relocate from Aviation House (Gatwick) to new premises in the coming years. We aim to minimise disruption and will relocate within a 15-mile radius when appropriate, with an expected move not before 2028.

We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from all backgrounds. We participate in the Disability Confident scheme and guarantee an interview to applicants who meet the minimum criteria. Please request adjustments if needed.

We support hybrid working and flexible patterns, with opportunities to develop and grow through cross-functional collaboration.

We offer benefits including flexible working, on-site gym, pension, annual leave and more.

Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone.

Closing Date: 4th November 2025

Interview Date:
Mid/End November 2025

No recruitment agencies please.