Obstacle and Aerodrome Safeguarding Policy Specialist

Salary: £50,477 up to £60,000 dependent upon experience

Contract Type: Permanent – Full Time

Security Level: SC

Base Location: Gatwick or Manchester

Visa Restrictions: This position does not offer visa sponsorship.

We are the UK's aviation and aerospace regulator and recognised as a world leader in its field. Our activities are diverse, enabling the aviation industry to meet the highest safety standards, and we pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the constantly evolving aviation environment.

The Role

The Policy Specialist is responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of policies relating to aerodrome safeguarding and obstacle management. This includes oversight of CAP738, CAP1096, CAP764, and amendments to CAP168, as well as UK Regulation (EU) 139/2014 in relation to obstacle management and aerodrome safeguarding disciplines.

The role involves contributing to drone operations from both an aerodrome operations and safeguarding perspective, as well as supporting the development of policies and regulations associated with obstacle management and Aerodromes Safeguarding. It requires active engagement with ICAO, Eurocontrol and industry working groups, within various aerodrome-related disciplines, while also promoting innovation in future aerodrome operations.

Additionally, the Policy Specialist acts as a liaison between aerodromes and Airspace Regulation, particularly in areas where disciplines overlap, such as Instrument Flight Procedure (IFP) Policy and Air Traffic Management (ATM) Policy.

Core Accountabilities

• Develop and maintain aerodrome and related policies, including CAP738, CAP1096, CAP764, and CAP168.
• The development of innovative solutions for aerodrome safeguarding.
• Contribute to the development and amendment of UK Regulation (EU) 139/2014.
• Engage with ICAO and industry working groups to influence and shape international aerodrome policies.
• Support the integration of drone operations within aerodrome environments.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to promote innovation in aerodrome operations.
• Provide expert advice and guidance on aerodrome policy matters.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of aerodrome policies and recommend improvements.
• Act as a liaison between aerodromes and Airspace Regulation Policy for regulatory elements involving dual disciplines.

Decision Making

• Make informed decisions on policy development and amendments based on thorough analysis and stakeholder consultation.
• Assess the impact of proposed policies on aerodrome operations and safety.
• Determine the best approaches to integrate drone operations within aerodrome environments.
• Participate in the evaluation and development of policies and regulation.

Influencing Others

• Engage with industry stakeholders, including aerodrome operators, airlines, and regulatory bodies, to gather input and build consensus on policy matters.
• Represent the UK CAA in ICAO and industry working groups, advocating for UK interests.
• Communicate complex policy issues clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Foster collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders to drive policy development and implementation.

About You

To be considered for the role you must have the following skills, experience and qualifications:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply regulatory requirements.
• Proficiency in stakeholder engagement and management.
• Knowledge of aerodrome operations and safety standards.
• Experience in policy development and implementation within the aviation sector.
• Proven track record of working with regulatory frameworks and standards.
• Experience in engaging with aviation and government organisations such as CAA, local planning authorities.
• Background in aerodrome operations or related fields.
• Aerodrome Safeguarding training.
• Aerodrome or Planning design qualifications.
• Professional certification in aviation safety or regulatory compliance.
• CAD qualifications.

The following skills, experience and qualifications are desirable but not essential:

• Familiarity with drone operations and integration within aerodrome environments.
• Project management skills.
• Ability to drive innovation and change within a regulatory context.
• Knowledge working within an Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP).
• Experience in developing policies for drone operations.
• Participation in industry working groups or committees.
• Experience in leading cross-functional teams.
• Degree in aviation policy, law, or a related field.
• Additional certifications in project management or innovation management.

Additional Information

For many appointments within the CAA, these roles require access to operationally sensitive infrastructure and/or Nationally Protected information. For these roles the post holders must undergo National Security Vetting and achieve the appropriate level of clearance.

To be vetted we will usually expect a reasonable period of residency in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken. For this role this will need to be 5 years.

If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.

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

Relocation & Property

The CAA will be relocating from Aviation House (Our Gatwick Office) to new premises in a few years’ time. Our move is driven by strategic, operational and environmental considerations.

We will be moving to a new local home, up to a 15-mile radius of Aviation House, to minimise disruption for our valued colleagues and customers. We are now working with colleagues and visitors to understand what we need in our new office, before we start our property search. We will sell Aviation House and land, vacate the site and move to new premises, but we do not expect to move before 2028.

Inclusive Recruitment

We are passionate about diversity and ensuring all are included at the CAA. We are an equal opportunity employer and actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

As a member of the Disability Confident scheme, applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a role with us will be guaranteed an interview. We use fair and inclusive selection approaches to hire the best person for the job based on merit alone. If you require an adjustment for any reason, please let us know.

Working With Us

We are on a journey towards being increasingly adaptable, where our colleagues collaborate as part of cross-functional teams. This approach ensures we never stop learning together. It also means that you may become involved in activities that take you out of your day-to-day role, providing you with opportunities to develop and grow your career with us.

We have embraced hybrid working and offer flexible working patterns, being open to having a conversation about what works for you. We know where and when we work is important in achieving a work-life balance.

We offer a range of excellent benefits such as flexible working arrangements, free onsite gym at Gatwick, discounted gym membership for London, 28 days annual leave, additional 5 days leave purchase scheme, a generous pension scheme and much more!

Our Values

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

Closing Date: Sunday 13th July 2025

Interview Date: W/C Monday 21st July 2025

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

No recruitment agencies please.