Aviation Assurance Panel - Operational & Technical Expert in Swindon

Role Overview

Hours: Six days (48 hours) annually made up of three meetings (two days allocated per meeting, one for pre-reading, one attendance). Additional ad-hoc support as and when required with prior agreement. NERC's Aviation Assurance Panel (AAP) is UKRI's highest-level assurance body for aviation assets within our National Capability provision. These assets include the BAS De Havilland Canada Twin Otters (DHC-6) and the BAS De Havilland Canada Dash-7 (DHC-7). The AAP is chaired by NERC's Chief Operating Officer and brings together expertise from across UKRI's aviation domain, including BAS, the National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS) and NERC Head Office. Its purpose is to provide independent, expert oversight to ensure the safe, effective and compliant operation of UKRI's aviation capability.

We are seeking an Aviation Operational & Technical Independent Subject Matter Expert to join the Aviation Assurance Panel. As a Panel Member, you will provide impartial, high-level advice and constructive challenges to strengthen governance, risk management and assurance across UKRI's aviation operations. Your expertise will help ensure that our aviation assets remain safe, compliant, and capable of supporting world-leading environmental research.

Responsibilities

• Provide independent oversight, expert advice and constructive challenge to support the AAP Chair's decision-making.
• Act as a critical friend, offering impartial perspectives on aviation assurance, safety and governance matters.
• Scrutinise assurance information, risk assessments and operational reports to ensure frameworks are robust, fit for purpose and able to withstand external scrutiny.
• Promote transparency, accountability and continuous improvement across UKRI's aviation activities.

Qualifications and Experience

• In-depth operational expertise within an aviation domain such as operational control, irregular operations, airport and ground operations, safety management systems (SMS), operational risk.
• Proven ability to provide high-level advice and challenge on aviation assurance, policy or operational matters.
• Strong understanding of assurance, risk and governance frameworks within aviation or related sectors.
• Ability to interpret complex technical data and assurance documentation to inform strategic decisions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience influencing senior stakeholders.
• Knowledge of aviation regulations and compliance (e.g. CAA, ASSI, ICAO).
• Familiarity with emerging aviation technologies (e.g., RPAS/UAVs, sustainable aviation fuels, digital airspace management).
• Experience serving on advisory boards, technical panels, or governance committees.
• Ability to operate impartially, providing objective advice with appropriate ethical oversight.
• Desirable: Chartered or professionally accredited status (e.g. CEng, FRAeS, PMP).
• Desirable: Experience working with government departments, regulators or industry partners.

Security Clearance

Your appointment is conditional upon obtaining and maintaining Security Check (SC) clearance for the duration of your employment. Candidates must be eligible to undergo and successfully obtain SC clearance prior to appointment.