CHIEF AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL & SEARCH AND RESCUE OFFICER

Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA) invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the position of Chief Air Traffic Control & Search and Rescue Officer within the Air Navigation Services Department.

POSITION DETAILS

Location: King Mswati III International Airport, Sikhuphe
Department: Air Navigation Services
Reports to: Manager Air Navigation Services

JOB PURPOSE

The Chief Air Traffic Control & Search and Rescue Officer is responsible for planning, managing, monitoring and continuously improving Air Traffic Services (ATS) and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations within Eswatini airspace.

The role provides operational leadership, ensures regulatory compliance, manages personnel and resources, and supports the strategic development of ATS and SAR services in accordance with applicable regulations and ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Air Traffic Services

• Supervise safe, efficient and cost-effective air traffic management services.
• Manage ATS operations during contingencies, emergencies and crises.
• Implement ATM transformation initiatives and operational improvements.
• Manage departmental budgets, personnel and resources.
• Lead, mentor and develop operational personnel.
• Participate in strategic planning for future CNS/ATM systems and technologies.
• Coordinate with national and international aviation stakeholders.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual operational reports.
• Develop and monitor the departmental budget.

Search & Rescue

• Develop and implement a Search and Rescue Plan.
• Coordinate and monitor SAR activities in line with national regulations and ICAO Annex 12.
• Establish and maintain a Search and Rescue Coordination Sub-Centre (RSC).
• Maintain bilateral agreements with neighbouring States to support SAR cooperation and interoperability.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & LICENCES

• Bachelor’s Degree in Air Traffic Management, Aviation Management or related field.
• Approach Radar Control Rating/Certification.
• Approach Procedural Control Rating/Certification.
• Aerodrome Control Rating/Certification.
• On-the-Job Training Instructor (OJTI) Certification.
• SAR Mission Coordinator (SMC) Certification.
• Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) Certification for Air Traffic Controllers.
• ICAO English Language Proficiency Level 4 or higher.
• Valid Air Traffic Control Licence with required ratings.
• Valid Class 3 Medical Certificate.

EXPERIENCE

• At least 5 years’ experience as a licensed Approach Procedural and/or Radar Controller with an OJTI rating.
• At least 3 years’ supervisory or management experience within Air Traffic Services.
• Demonstrated experience in Search and Rescue operations and coordination.

ADDED ADVANTAGES

• Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
• Safety Management Systems (SMS) qualification/experience.
• Quality Management Systems (QMS) qualification/experience.
• Leadership and Management Training Certificate.
• Mass Rescue Operations (MRO) Certificate.
• ATC Examiner Certificate.
• Search and Rescue Administrators Certificate.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Leadership and people management.
• Strategic planning and execution.
• Decision-making and problem-solving.
• Change management.
• Air Traffic Management and Operations.
• Search and Rescue Operations and Coordination.
• Safety and Quality Management Systems.
• Stakeholder relationship management.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Analytical thinking and sound judgement.
• High integrity and professionalism.

HOW TO APPLY

Submit the following:

• Complete and up-to-date CV
• Certified copies of academic certificates and professional accreditations

📧 Email: recruitment@eswacaa.co.sz

📅 Closing Date: Friday, 21 August 2026

Email subject: Chief Air Traffic Control & Search and Rescue Officer

⚠️ Only emailed applications will be accepted. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.