Salary: Up to £60,000 dependent upon experience
Contract Type: Permanent – Full Time
Security Level: BPSS
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
* To inform, initiate, support and contribute to Flight Operations policy work by providing specialist knowledge and expertise on relevant FO policy and regulation such as Flight Time Limitations (FTL).
* Contribute to and manage elements of Flight Operations rule-making projects in collaboration with subject matter experts from FO and across the CAA.
* To develop policy and regulatory output for all aspects of aviation policy within the Flight Operations remit for the UK in accordance with our Values and Behaviours (Do the right thing, never stop learning, build collaborative relationships, respect everyone).
* To ensure policies are proportionate, in accordance with the Better Regulation Principles, relevant and in line with national and international regulations.
* To support stakeholders (internal and external) by providing clarity on the application of relevant regulations.
Core Accountabilities
* Lead on the Flight Operations work on Flight Time Limitations regulation and guidance.
* With colleagues on the Flight Operations (FO) Policy team, develop policy that is consistent with safety and business needs, including CAA Business and individual Action Plans, and external drivers.
* Dependent on experience and training, provide technical knowledge and expertise in all relevant Flight Operations subjects.
* Ensure all FO standards, Legislation and Recommendations are developed using SMART principles and are practicable and effective.
* Assist Policy Team colleagues in responding to accepted AAIB Safety Recommendations.
* Ensure FO Policy work adheres to CAA Regulatory and Management systems.
* Achievement of policy objectives and service standards.
* Effective and recognised contributions are made to national and international aviation policy development, including international agreements.
* Contribute to the SARG objective to be recognised as world leaders in safety regulation.
* Meet expected CAA competencies.
* Contribute as the Chair/ a member of working or study groups as applicable.
* Meet personal objectives agreed with Line Manager.
* Satisfactory completion of applicable training courses/modules/professional qualification.
* Continued Professional Development.
* High quality of written and verbal communications within timescales.
About You
* The post holder should have relevant subject matter expertise, experience and knowledge of the Flight Operations sector, and/or of regulatory policy development and rulemaking. A particular emphasis on FTL will be greatly valued.
* This will include a wide knowledge of aviation matters with relevant experience and qualifications appropriate to individual post and level.
* Typically, this will be an appropriate combination of specialised or practical experience and/or knowledge in Flight Operations and/or policy and rulemaking, underpinned by relevant professional qualifications or industry equivalent.
* Knowledge of relevant UK, European and global legislation (e.g. ICAO, FAA, EASA EU Regulations) and standards setting bodies (e.g. BSi, CEN & SAE).
* An appropriate level of knowledge of PBO, SMS, RIA, HF Better Regulation, risk assessment and project management is required.
* Personal attributes of the post holder will include team worker with flexible and adaptable work ethos, analytical and lateral thinker with an eye for detail; strong research capability, ability to participate successfully in cross-domain teams within the CAA and multi-national teams in the international arena.
* A proven ability to communicate effectively at all levels and to produce concise, unambiguous discussion papers for presentation at various bodies within the CAA and Industry.
* IT literacy is essential.
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.
If you do not meet these requirements, we may not be able to accept your application.
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
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 – For more information please Click Here
Closing Date: Friday 7th November 2025
Interview Date: W/C Monday 17th and 24th 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.