SMS Analyst - Entry Level

Position Overview

The SMS Analyst reports to the Manager of SMS and is responsible for root cause analysis and the subsequent process control/mapping and supporting procedural changes that would be implemented through the Mesa Airlines SMS program as determined by the Director of Quality Assurance and Chief Inspector.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluates potential problems, determines the root causes of issues, proposes and develops solutions, and initiates appropriate procedural improvements.
• Ensures that changes are communicated to all stakeholders across the airline as required for seamless implementation in accordance with part 5 (Safety Management Systems) of the Code of Federal Regulations.
• Works with the CASS department to obtain supporting data for any proposed changes (e.g., delay, cancel, air turn-back, aborted take-off, return to gate, etc.).
• Monitors and confirms the effectiveness of changes to the manuals by ensuring the appropriate follow-up audit is in place.
• Provides stakeholders with a training module and testing via the Mesa Airlines LMS system to ensure prompt notification and complete understanding of any changes to existing or new procedures.
• Ensures the proposed changes contain the following fundamental safety management system components:
  • a) Safety plan
    • i) A safety plan that is a strategic action plan that compliments the Mesa Airlines business plan, analyzes current and prospective risks, and outlines how those risks will be eradicated and controlled over a given period along with the financial impact.
    • ii) Designed to ensure a governance structure within Mesa Airlines that communicates safety impact and obligations to all stakeholders, confirming accountability.
  • b) Policies, procedures, and processes
    • Procedures: Step-by-step description of how processes are to be performed.
    • Controls:
      • Checks and restraints designed into a system to ensure a desired result.
  • c) Process Performance Measures – Assessment of a process that identifies and corrects problems or potential problems.
  • d) Interfaces – Occur when responsibility for accomplishing work is transferred from one person, group, or organization to another.
  • e) Training and induction
  • f) Monitoring – After implementation, ensures the appropriate follow-up audit confirms the change was effective.
  • g) Reporting
    • i) Establishes safety reporting at all levels, not just at board level.
    • ii) Provides safety feedback to workers regarding hazards identified, risk levels, and control measures implemented.

Required Qualifications

• Mechanic's Certificate with an Airframe and Power-Plant rating is desired, but not required. Other technical experience, such as an AAS Degree or a BS Degree in a technical field, will be considered.
• General knowledge of aircraft technical and inspection programs.
• Familiarity with the Code of Federal Regulations, specifically Title 14 Section 121.
• Two years of experience in a technical process improvement role is desired, but not required.
• Previous Audit, Root Cause Analysis, and Performance Measurement Data Collection and Analysis experience is required.
  • Previous leadership experience, either as a Manager or as an individual contributor demonstrating leadership skills, is desired but not mandatory.
• An understanding of MSG3 logic.
• Understanding and application of company policies and procedures.
• Must be familiar with data collection techniques, analysis, and presentation of data that communicates the operational, technical, and financial impact to the CASS Board.
• Solid communication skills both verbally and in writing; comfortable presenting to all levels of the company and interfacing with the Federal Aviation Administration.
• Equivalent education and experience will be considered.