Safety Program Manager

Job Title: Safety Program Manager 
Job Location: Des Plaines-USA-60016 
Work Location Type: On-Site 



 

About us

Since 1942, SkyChefs has taken culinary excellence to new heights. As a trusted partner to the nation’s leading airlines and retailers, we proudly deliver millions of meals and exceptional service experiences every year across 43 sites throughout the United States. Built on a legacy of operational excellence, culinary expertise, and continuous innovation, we are committed to setting the industry standard in aviation culinary, airline services, last-mile logistics, and retail commerce. From the kitchen to the runway, our teams work together to deliver quality, reliability, and service at every altitude. Our people are the heart of everything we do. At SkyChefs, a career is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to grow, lead, and make an impact in a fast-paced, team-driven environment. Join America’s first, foremost, and finest and take your career to new heights.

Role Purpose Statement

As the Safety Manager for our Des Plaines location, you will lead the development, implementation, and management of all ramp and employee safety programs. Your primary mission is to foster and sustain a Safety First culture that is embedded in every aspect of our operation. Working closely with airline partners, operational leaders, and frontline teams, you will create and maintain a world-class ramp environment where safety drives decision-making, operational excellence, and employee engagement.

At Sky Chefs, safety is more than a priority, it is the foundation of our success. In this critical leadership role, you will champion regulatory compliance, identify and mitigate operational risks, and implement proactive safety initiatives that protect our employees and support safe, efficient operations at one of the world's busiest airports. Success in this position requires a strong partnership mindset, a passion for continuous improvement, and the ability to influence a culture where safety, customer service, and operational performance thrive together.

If you are passionate about protecting people, strengthening compliance, and building impactful safety programs, this is an opportunity to lead meaningful change and make a lasting difference.

Perks

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits
• Employer-paid Life Insurance & AD&D
• Tuition Reimbursement for your continued growth
• Generous Vacation, Sick, and Holiday Pay
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Free Meals & Parking
• Opportunities for Advancement within a global industry leader

Main Accountabilities

• Foster a “safety first” culture where strict adherence to ramp and employee safety processes are perceived as non-negotiable and the only way to perform our work.
• Develop and implement training programs that instil a “safety first” culture and provide our team with the knowledge required to follow our SOP’s.
• Design and implement safety programs that promote employee ownership of Safety, create awareness of the how and why of safety, and recognize safe behaviour.
• Partners with CSC Leadership regarding employee safety issues involving but not limited to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Federal Aviation Agency (FAA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Transportation (DOT); and applicable state agencies.
• Conduct monthly safety meetings
• Coordinate and ensure that all accidents are investigated and corrective/preventive action is implemented and sustained.
• Partners with CSC leadership to ensure audit readiness
• Oversee Workers Compensation processes at the CSC to effectively manage claims
• Ensure compliance of CSC security procedures and airport authority badging requirements 
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Leadership

• Ensure that the area of responsibility is properly organized, staffed and directed.
• Guide, motivate and develop the subordinate employees within the Human Resources Policy.
• Participates in coaching the expanded Global Performance System (GPS) process, as well as additional career development activities to enhance the effectiveness and potential of the team.
• Make the company’s values and management principles live in the department(s).
• Participate and support Company sponsored initiatives such as GQS, HACCP, Lean Manufacturing, Employee Safety and CBase.
  
  
  
   

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Bachelors Degree in Safety Engineering or in related field preferred.
• In addition, 5-7+ years of experience in aviation safety, employee safety management, or ground handling safety.
• Strong understanding of OSHA, FAA, DOT, and airline safety regulations.
• Experience working with airport security, airline partners, and federal regulatory agencies.
• Ability to conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and collaborate with legal teams.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and training skills—able to influence teams at all levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data-driven safety reporting tools.
• Aviation security experience and knowledge of the Circle of Safety are a plus. 

SkyChefs is an EEO and Affirmative Action Employer of Women/Minorities/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities.