South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) Trainee Inspector: Airports and Airlines Security Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is offering a Trainee Inspector position focusing on Airports and Airlines Security. This opportunity is designed to train individuals to monitor and ensure the implementation of the National Aviation Security Program (NASP) and related Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs), in compliance with international standards set by ICAO SARPs.

As a Trainee Inspector, you will contribute to promoting aviation security and strengthening national aviation systems through oversight activities. This role provides an immersive learning experience within a critical sector of national infrastructure, helping to uphold safety and security standards in South African aviation.

Minimum Requirements

• National Diploma in Security or Administration, or a relevant equivalent qualification.
• Aviation Security Certificate.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in Aviation Security or experience obtained at an Airport, Air Carrier, or Air Traffic Services (ATS).
• Added Advantage: A Degree in Security or Risk Management or a relevant equivalent degree.
• All SACAA appointments are subject to S98 of the Civil Aviation Act, 13 of 2009.
• Successful candidates will be subjected to security vetting.
• Employment Equity candidates will be prioritised in line with the SACAA’s Employment Equity Plan.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor the implementation of the National Aviation Security Program (NASP) and Civil Aviation Regulations (CARs) in compliance with ICAO SARPs.
• Promote Aviation Security and strengthen national aviation systems oversight.
• Plan and execute inspections and audits following laid down ISO Procedures.
• Conduct oversight activities as assigned by the Manager, make appropriate recommendations, and submit comprehensive reports.
• Perform inspections/audits follow-ups to ensure that identified security gaps are closed.
• Evaluate, validate, and review security programs and manuals for Airport Operators, Air Carriers, Air Navigation Service Providers, and Catering Service Providers.
• Process applications for the designation of Officials for Aviation Security at airports and airlines.
• Perform job-related administrative tasks.
• Create and maintain a database of allocated clients and a database for non-compliances on the findings register.
• Handle internal and external correspondence through the Manager.
• Maintain the AVSEC Documents management system in line with the Records Management Procedure and personal information in compliance with POPIA.
• Follow up on and evaluate Corrective Action Plans.
• Initiate enforcement by alerting the Manager of non-conformances and taking action for cases meriting enforcement in line with the Enforcement Procedure.
• Recommend to the Manager a review of regulations to address identified gaps in the security system.
• Participate in the process of amending legal instruments related to aviation security.
• Monitor and observe Local Airport Security Committee meetings as assigned and provide feedback to SACAA through the Manager.
• Attend to all requests and queries in line with SACAA policies and procedures.
• Provide feedback on queries raised by operators.
• Participate in security awareness programs and SACAA initiatives.

What the Work Involves

This role involves hands-on participation in safeguarding aviation security within South Africa. Day-to-day activities will include learning how to conduct inspections and audits at airports and for airlines, ensuring their operations comply with national and international aviation security standards. You will review security programs and manuals, identify non-compliances, and contribute to ensuring corrective actions are taken.

The work also includes significant administrative duties such as creating and maintaining client and non-compliance databases, handling correspondence, and managing security documentation. You will contribute to the enforcement process, assist in developing and amending regulations, and participate in important liaison meetings, all under the guidance of a Manager. The position is based in Centurion but will involve oversight activities across various aviation sites.

How to Apply

• Applications must be submitted online through the SACAA direct hire portal.
• Visit the official application link: https://sacaa.mcidirecthire.com/External/Application?Ref=TEkBhDYErs0qhHgueWeCgt_yRI-cnPLR1MRk1RR6Cpou3ktpvROhSqni_BGkK6j00MybjSD5b-_GZfFGjXkNaM85zUVSvqOWR4MUfOJYPl_euZTl86Oiuij87_8vNuiQG9RtiCMMnZvub3X2xVxHg
• The closing date for applications is 28 September 2026.
• If you have not heard from the SACAA within 90 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.