This position is an Airway Transportation System Specialist in the Air Traffic Safety Operations Oversight Division (AOV-200) of the Air Traffic Safety Oversight Service (AOV). Duties
The Airway Transportation System Specialist interacts with Air Traffic Organization (ATO) personnel and AOV specialists in developing and evaluating approaches to data, systems, and activities in order to achieve AOV strategic and business goals. Applies expert technical knowledge and experience of National Airspace System (NAS) technical equipment, services, operations, and procedures used for air traffic control (i.e., power, surveillance and navigational aids equipment among others). Conducts AOVs surveillance activities involving NAS services and equipment operations. Develops new concepts, systems, and innovative approaches to identify and resolve complex issues that often cross organizational boundaries.
Uses knowledge of the NAS equipment, Technical Operations procedures and programs, and safety management system principles and programs to perform operational audits of the ATO and to ensure compliance with air traffic services safety standards and the ATO Safety Management System (SMS). Performs data research and develops criteria within approved guidelines to identify local and system trends, anomalies, and hazards by evaluating data and collaborating with counterparts in AOV, other Aviation Safety organizations, the ATO, and external entities. Analyzes and compiles data from events and incidents from the National Airspace System (NAS) technical equipment, services, operations, and procedures used for air traffic control. Addresses emerging safety risks with the ATOs workforce, and systems equipment in air traffic facilities, utilizing experience gained supporting an ATO terminal and/or enroute operational facility in a wide variety of positions such as airway transportation systems specialist, electronics technician, flight check specialist, program or technical support specialist, among others to prevent safety hazards.
Serves as a technical expert to develop new or innovative concepts and approaches to systems, programs, and policies or serves as a senior project manager or team leader for large, challenging work activities. Leads and/or supports activities designed to determine compliance with ATO operations, regulations, and requirements including conducting safety risk audits and/or assessments. Collaborates with key ATO personnel from Safety and Technical Training, Air Traffic Services, Technical Operations Service Units, NextGen Office, and Airports line of business, among others to ensure the safety of the NAS. Maintains awareness of current AOV/ATO functional responsibilities to ensure compliance on regulatory/technical programs, activities relating to ATO technical, safety, operational and SMS requirements. Plans, leads, conducts and/or participates in surveillance activities to measure and determine compliance with established FAA orders, rules, procedures, and policies while promoting continued operational safety. Has broad discretion to ensure alignment with organizational objectives and policies.
Provides expert guidance and instruction to address diverse, complex issues that often cross multiple projects, programs, or functional areas. Develops plans, techniques, and policies to address current or anticipated problems and issues. Supports management with activities surrounding applicable standards for ATO and NAS data management and proposing/ initiating continual improvements. Determines need and implements work programs for, surveillance and monitoring efforts, inspections, and compliance verification for validation of identified or suspected safety concerns in the technical operations arena. Interprets and applies internal policies and procedures pertaining to AOVs Quality Management System when predicting potential issues, proposing solutions and/or preventive actions. Monitors safety data of assigned areas and recommends changes that will improve technical and operational safety.