Inspector ATS (Engineering) in Manchester

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-time

Location: Manchester or Stirling

Department: Air Traffic Management

Security Level: CTC

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

We are looking for an ATM Engineering Inspector who brings solid experience with current, operational ATM systems and a willingness to engage with how the industry is evolving. This role offers the chance to build on your existing knowledge while gradually becoming involved in new and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of airspace.

You will provide independent engineering assurance, technical inspection, and regulatory oversight of ATM systems used across the aviation sector. This includes established surveillance, communications, and navigation systems, as well as newer developments such as digitalisation initiatives, automation, and Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM).

This is a great opportunity to use your existing expertise while helping ensure that new technology is introduced safely and effectively—without losing sight of the importance of robust, well-understood legacy systems.

• Inspect and assess CNS/ATM infrastructure including Primary & Secondary Radar, ADS‑B & MLAT, VHF/UHF communications, navigation aids, and ATC systems.
• Review engineering change proposals, safety assessments, and system documentation for compliance with regulatory standards.
• Conduct audits, technical investigations, and inspections across ANSPs, airports, and engineering service providers.
• Provide advice on system performance, resilience, interoperability, and safety assurance.
• Contribute to the oversight of new and emerging technologies at a pace that matches organisational and industry readiness.
• Assess the safety, integrity, and suitability of innovative solutions as they mature and begin entering operational use.
• Support the development of regulatory guidance for new technologies and future airspace concepts.

About You

We’re looking for someone who brings a strong foundation in ATM or CNS engineering and an interest in supporting the safe evolution of the sector. You don’t need to be an expert in every emerging technology - we value curiosity, sound engineering judgement, and a willingness to learn.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A solid background in CNS/ATM engineering or systems engineering, preferably with management experience.
• Experience working with or inspecting operational ATM systems.
• Knowledge of relevant regulatory frameworks.
• An understanding of SMS principles, risk assessment, and safety assurance documentation.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A commitment to supporting safe and effective innovation in aviation.
• Qualified Auditor.
• An understanding/experience of modern ATM concepts or an interest in developing your knowledge in digitalisation and emerging aerospace technologies.

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 you must have the right to work in the UK so that meaningful checks can be undertaken. 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 3 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 please visit - Vetting explained - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

For more information on BPSS clearance please visit - BPSS clearance

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. There is no planned change currently to our Manchester and Stirling Office arrangements.

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.

Use of Artificial Intelligence by candidates in the CAA recruitment process

We recognise that many of our candidates find Artificial Intelligence to be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be rejected on that basis.

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: Friday 13th February 2026

Interview Date: Thursday 5th March 2026 – in person – the CAA’s Manchester office

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.