At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert advice on aviation safety policy and regulatory requirements.
- Company: Join the UK's leading aviation and aerospace regulator.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 28 days leave, generous pension, and wellness support.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aviation safety and innovation.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of aviation regulation and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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
- Provide expert advice on safety policy and regulatory requirements associated with the full and safe integration of new and novel technology within the FS&I remit.
- Provide technical policy support to enable policy change across the FS&I remit.
- Coordination of external responses
- Provide expert interpretation of current UAS policy and regulations.
- Effective liaison with the public, industry and internal colleagues.
- Produce very high quality written regulatory guidance material for use by SARG and industry.
- Establish and build suitable working relationships in order to identify and recommend suitable courses of action to the Policy lead, and the FS&I Policy manager.
- Effectively identify and address emerging UAS regulatory issues.
- Manage relationships with other regulators on matters within the remit of FS&I, or organisations which fall outside the remit of the Basic Regulation, such as the Emergency services.
Safety Specific
- Assessment of safety impact of regulatory and policy changes
- Management of the regulatory safety management system for existing FS&I risks
- Policy developed consistent with safety and business needs, including CAA Business and programme and individual action plans, and external drivers.
- Write and maintain Policy and Guidance documents to a high standard.
- Standards, legislation and requirements are developed using SMART principles, and are practicable and effective.
- Adherence to CAA Regulatory and Management systems.
- Achievement of programme objectives and service standards.
- Effective and recognised contributions are made to national and international aviation policy development. Contribute to the FS&I objectives.
- Meeting expected CAA competences.
- Fully contribute as Chair/member of working or study groups as applicable.
- Meet personal objectives agreed with Line Manager.
- Satisfactory completion of training courses/modules/professional qualification(s).
- High Quality of written and verbal communications within timescales.
- Act in accordance with CAA values: Do the right thing, Respect everyone, Never stop learning, Build collaborative relationships
About You
Minimum essential requirements for the role:
- Demonstrated knowledge of aviation regulation, ideally within the domain of an FS&I community.
- Experience of Performance Based Regulation, Safety Management Systems, Human Factors.
- Risk Management training and practical experience.
- Knowledge of wider aviation matters, including knowledge of relevant international rulesets.
- Ability to write effective technical guidance material for use by a general audience.
- Ability to identify new work proactively and recognizing the subsequent impacts of that work on organizational objectives and other’s work.
- Ability to analyse complex subject matter and to produce simple and effective briefings and written explanations to general audience and decision makers.
- Ability to analyse regulatory work with a high attention to detail and then provide solutions and track work towards agreed objectives.
- Ability to work effectively within a team of experts. Must be able to cope with periods of higher workload, prioritise work and meet deadlines.
- Ability to communicate effectively via the written word and verbally at all levels.
- IT literacy in MS Office applications.
Desirable skills for the role:
- Proven expert and detailed knowledge of the functioning and application of aviation regulation.
- Proven ability to write effective technical guidance material for use by a general audience.
- Accident and incident investigation training and practical experience.
- Previous regulatory experience.
- Experience within an international regulatory organization, such as ICAO.
- Experience within, or working closely with, a government organisation.
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.
CTC - 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)
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
Inclusivity
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and celebrate our diversity ensuring all backgrounds are included here at the CAA. 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 offer a range of excellent benefits such as:
- Flexible & hybrid working arrangements available
- 28 days annual leave + public holidays (additional 5 days leave purchase scheme)
- Generous pension scheme (Up to 12% employer contribution)
- Wellbeing Room at Gatwick
- Mental Health and Suicide First Aiders
- Employee Assistance Programme, talking therapies and neurodiversity support via Occupational Health & access to Headspace for colleagues and 5 dependents
- Free onsite gym at Gatwick or discounted gym membership for London
- EV charging points
- Employee Development courses internally and via Skillsoft
Our Values
Do The Right Thing, Never Stop Learning, Build Collaborative Relationships, Respect Everyone – For more information please Click Here
Closing Date: Friday 24th October 2025
Interview Date: w/c 3rd/10th November 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.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Consulting, Engineering, and Quality Assurance
- Industries
- Airlines and Aviation
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Policy Specialist (Safety & Regulation) employer: Civil Aviation Authority
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Gatwick, where employees are empowered to contribute to the safety and regulation of the aviation industry. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a robust pension scheme and professional development opportunities, the CAA fosters a culture of collaboration and continuous learning. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values integrity, inclusivity, and the pursuit of excellence in aviation safety.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Policy Specialist (Safety & Regulation)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the aviation and aerospace industry, especially those who work at the CAA. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of aviation regulations and safety management systems. We want you to be able to discuss these topics confidently and show how your experience aligns with the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the CAA team and contributing to aviation safety.
We think you need these skills to ace Policy Specialist (Safety & Regulation)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand the aviation regulations and safety policies. We want to see your expertise shine through in your application, so don’t hold back on showcasing your knowledge!
Tailor Your Writing:When you’re crafting your application, tailor it to the role. Use the language from the job description and highlight how your experience aligns with what we’re looking for. It shows us you’ve done your homework!
Quality Over Quantity:Focus on producing high-quality written material. Whether it’s your CV or cover letter, make sure it’s clear, concise, and free of errors. We appreciate attention to detail, especially in a role that involves regulatory guidance.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications, so get yours in through our website as soon as you can. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Civil Aviation Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on aviation regulations, especially those related to safety and integration of new technologies. Familiarise yourself with the current UAS policies and be ready to discuss how they impact the industry.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
Since producing high-quality written guidance is key for this role, prepare examples of your technical writing. Bring along any relevant documents or reports you've created that demonstrate your ability to simplify complex information for a general audience.
✨Build Relationships
This role requires effective liaison with various stakeholders. Think about how you can demonstrate your experience in building collaborative relationships. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully worked with different teams or external organisations.
✨Stay Calm Under Pressure
The job may involve managing periods of high workload. Prepare to discuss how you prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. Share strategies you've used in the past to handle stress and maintain productivity during busy times.
