Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin Career Overview

As an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor, your primary responsibility is to ensure that aviation operations adhere to established safety protocols and regulations. You play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the aviation industry, focusing on minimizing risks and enhancing safety for both passengers and crew.

In this position, you will:

  • Conduct thorough audits of aircraft maintenance practices, operational procedures, and safety management systems.
  • Review compliance with federal, state, and local aviation regulations, including those set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
  • Identify potential safety hazards and recommend corrective actions to mitigate risks.
  • Collaborate with aviation personnel, including engineers, pilots, and maintenance staff, to foster a culture of safety and compliance.
  • Prepare detailed reports documenting audit findings, compliance issues, and recommendations for improvement.

Your work contributes significantly to the operational safety of airlines and other aviation entities, helping to prevent accidents and ensuring that the highest standards of safety are upheld throughout the industry. In essence, you serve as a critical guardian of aviation safety, supporting the broader mission of protecting lives and promoting trust in air travel.

Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor Salary in Wisconsin

Annual Median: $104,580
Hourly Median: $50.28

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin

To become an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor, you typically need the following educational qualifications and training:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: A four-year degree is often required. Relevant programs include:

    • Aeronautics and Aerospace Science and Technology: This program focuses on the principles of flight, aviation systems, and technical aspects of aircraft operations and safety compliance.
    • Air Transportation: This degree covers the economics, logistics, and operational aspects of air transportation, emphasizing safety regulations and compliance.
    • Aviation and Airway Management and Operations: This program trains you in air traffic control, aviation management, and safety standards, preparing you to assess compliance with regulatory requirements.
    • Aerospace Engineering: With a focus on the design and manufacturing of aircraft and spacecraft, this degree provides a solid foundation in engineering principles and safety standards.
  • Certifications and Licenses: While not always mandatory, obtaining certifications related to aviation safety can enhance your qualifications. Consider:

    • FAA Safety Inspector: This certification allows you to conduct safety audits and assessments in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations.
    • ISO 9001 Auditor Certification: This certification demonstrates your understanding of quality management systems, which can be beneficial in ensuring compliance with industry standards.
  • Internships or Co-op Experience: Practical experience garnered through internships or cooperative education programs with aviation organizations can provide valuable insights into safety compliance processes and regulations.

Pursuing these educational pathways and additional training can significantly prepare you for a career as an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin.

Best Schools to become a Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin 2024

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide

Daytona Beach, FL

In-State Tuition:$11,160
Out-of-State Tuition:$11,160
Admission Rate:58%
Graduation Rate:17%
Total Enrollment:11,574

Purdue University-Main Campus

West Lafayette, IN

In-State Tuition:$9,718
Out-of-State Tuition:$28,520
Admission Rate:53%
Graduation Rate:83%
Total Enrollment:51,528

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

Daytona Beach, FL

In-State Tuition:$38,976
Out-of-State Tuition:$38,976
Admission Rate:65%
Graduation Rate:63%
Total Enrollment:10,301

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

In-State Tuition:$10,258
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,370
Admission Rate:17%
Graduation Rate:93%
Total Enrollment:45,296

University of Colorado Boulder

Boulder, CO

In-State Tuition:$11,004
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,376
Admission Rate:81%
Graduation Rate:75%
Total Enrollment:39,585
Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor Job Description:
  • Inspect aircraft, maintenance procedures, air navigational aids, air traffic controls, and communications equipment to ensure conformance with Federal safety regulations.

Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor Required Skills and Competencies in Wisconsin

  • Attention to Detail: You need to possess a keen eye for detail to ensure that every aspect of aircraft operations adheres to safety regulations and standards.

  • Analytical Thinking: Utilize strong analytical skills to assess compliance documentation and identify discrepancies or potential areas of risk.

  • Knowledge of Aviation Regulations: Familiarize yourself with federal and state aviation regulations, including those set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other governing bodies.

  • Communication Skills: Clearly convey findings and recommendations to various stakeholders, including management and regulatory agencies, both in writing and verbally.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Develop solutions to compliance issues that may arise during audits, balancing safety with operational efficiency.

  • Technical Proficiency: Have a strong understanding of aviation technologies and systems, enabling you to assess compliance effectively.

  • Organizational Skills: Manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently, ensuring thorough preparation and execution of audits.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Cultivate a collaborative approach when working with different teams within the organization to foster a culture of safety and accountability.

  • Regulatory Awareness: Stay updated on changes in aviation regulations and best practices, ensuring ongoing compliance within the organization.

  • Risk Assessment: Evaluate potential safety risks and create strategies to mitigate them, contributing to the overall safety culture of the organization.

Job Duties for Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors

  • Examine maintenance records and flight logs to determine if service and maintenance checks and overhauls were performed at prescribed intervals.

  • Inspect new, repaired, or modified aircraft to identify damage or defects and to assess airworthiness and conformance to standards, using checklists, hand tools, and test instruments.

  • Inspect work of aircraft mechanics performing maintenance, modification, or repair and overhaul of aircraft and aircraft mechanical systems to ensure adherence to standards and procedures.

Technologies and Skills Used by Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors

Data base user interface and query software

  • Aircraft regulation databases
  • Microsoft Access

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

People and Technology Systems

  • Figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin

The job market for Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors in Wisconsin reflects a dynamic landscape driven by the aviation industry's strong presence in the region. Here are some key insights into the current opportunities and demand:

  • Growing Demand: As the aviation industry increasingly prioritizes safety and regulatory compliance, there is a rising demand for professionals who can conduct thorough audits and ensure adherence to safety standards.

  • Industry Expansion: Companies involved in manufacturing, maintenance, and operation of aircraft are growing in Wisconsin. This includes regional and national aerospace firms, thereby creating more positions for compliance auditors.

  • Regulatory Environment: Federal and state regulatory frameworks continue to evolve, necessitating skilled auditors to interpret and implement these regulations effectively. This ongoing change contributes to increased job openings.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Milwaukee: Home to major airlines and aerospace manufacturers, this area frequently has openings for compliance auditors.
    • Madison: With a growing presence of engineering firms and aviation maintenance operations, opportunities in compliance auditing are also on the rise here.
    • Green Bay: The presence of smaller aviation-related companies and ongoing airport operations contributes to potential job opportunities in this region.
  • Networking Opportunities: Engaging with industry associations and attending aviation-focused conferences in Wisconsin can enhance visibility and access to job openings in this field.

  • Contract and Consulting Opportunities: Besides full-time positions, there is also a growing trend of hiring compliance auditors on a contract or consulting basis. This flexibility allows professionals to engage with multiple companies and projects, further widening job prospects.

  • Impact of Technology: Advances in aviation technology are leading to new safety standards, which necessitates ongoing auditing and compliance efforts, thereby increasing the need for qualified auditors in both existing and emerging sectors within aviation.

Your awareness of these dynamics in the job market will empower you to navigate your career path effectively as you explore opportunities as an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin

  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

    • The primary source for regulations and guidance in aviation safety. Their website includes information on compliance standards and resources for auditors.
    • FAA Website
  • National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

    • Offers insights into safety investigations and reports that can enhance your understanding of compliance issues.
    • NTSB Website
  • Society of Aviation Safety Investigators (SASI)

    • A professional organization offering resources, training, and a network for safety professionals, including safety auditors.
    • SASI Website
  • Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)

    • Provides various resources, including safety articles and regulatory updates beneficial for those involved in aircraft compliance.
    • AOPA Website
  • Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS)

    • A program that collects voluntary reports from aviation professionals to improve safety, it can be a valuable resource for understanding compliance issues.
    • ASRS Website
  • National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)

    • Offers advocacy, education, and safety resources tailored to business aviation, which is relevant for auditors in the sector.
    • NBAA Website
  • International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

    • An authoritative body that provides international standards and recommendations for the safety of aviation operations.
    • ICAO Website
  • Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics

  • Safety Management International Collaboration Group (SM ICG)

    • A group aiming to share best practices and insights into aviation safety management systems.
    • SM ICG Website
  • Books and Publications

    • "Aviation Safety Management Systems: A Practical Guide" - A useful text covering the principles and practice of safety management systems in aviation.
    • "The Safety Management System: A Vital Tool for Organizations" - This book discusses the role of safety management systems in compliance auditing.
  • Webinars and Online Courses

    • Organizations like the FAA and NBAA often offer webinars and e-learning courses tailored for safety professionals.
    • Check their respective websites for upcoming events and educational offerings.

Utilizing these resources will help you stay informed and grow in your role as an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor in Wisconsin

  • What is an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor?
    An Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor is responsible for ensuring that aviation operations adhere to safety regulations and standards. This role involves reviewing documentation, conducting inspections, and assessing compliance with federal and international aviation guidelines.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor?
    Typically, you need at least a bachelor's degree in aviation, aerospace engineering, or a related field. Having relevant certifications, such as from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), can also enhance your qualifications.

  • What certifications are beneficial for this career?
    Certifications such as the Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Associate Safety Professional (ASP), or specialized aviation safety certifications from organizations like the FAA can be valuable. These credentials demonstrate your expertise and commitment to safety compliance.

  • What skills are important for an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor?
    Key skills include strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a thorough understanding of aviation regulations. Familiarity with risk management practices and the ability to work independently are also essential.

  • What does a typical workday look like for an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor?
    Your day may involve conducting safety inspections, reviewing audit reports, meeting with aviation personnel, and preparing compliance documentation. You might also spend time analyzing data and developing recommendations for safety improvements.

  • Where do Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors typically work?
    Many auditors are employed by government agencies such as the FAA, aviation organizations, or private companies in the aerospace sector. Some may also work as independent contractors.

  • What are the career prospects for Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors in Wisconsin?
    The demand for qualified safety professionals in the aviation industry remains strong, making this a promising field. Opportunities may increase as aviation regulations evolve and as organizations place greater emphasis on safety compliance.

  • How much can I expect to earn as an Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditor?
    Salaries for Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors can vary based on experience, education, and location. In Wisconsin, the average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $90,000 annually, with higher salaries possible in more senior positions or specialized roles.

  • What are the advancement opportunities in this career?
    With experience, you may advance to senior auditor roles, safety management positions, or managerial positions within aviation organizations. Continuing education and obtaining additional certifications can facilitate career advancement.

  • Is travel a requirement for Aircraft Safety Compliance Auditors?
    Yes, some travel may be necessary, especially if you conduct inspections at different facilities or attend industry conferences. The extent of travel can vary based on your specific position and employer.

  • How can I stay current with industry regulations and safety practices?
    Engaging in continuous learning through professional development courses, attending relevant workshops, and participating in industry conferences are excellent ways to stay informed about changes in aviation regulations and safety practices. Networking with other professionals in the field is also beneficial.