Vacancy Announcement – Chief Air Traffic Control & Search and Rescue Officer
Published: 12 August 2026
The Eswatini Civil Aviation Authority (ESWACAA), a Category A Public Enterprise responsible for the regulation of Civil Aviation in the Kingdom of Eswatini and the operation of King Mswati III International Airport, invites suitably qualified and experienced candidates to apply for the position below.
Position
Chief Air Traffic Control & Search and Rescue Officer
Department: Air Navigation Services
Reports to: Manager Air Navigation Services
Duty Station: King Mswati III International Airport (Sikhuphe), Eswatini
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 Civil Aviation Regulations and ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
Key Responsibilities
Air Traffic Services Operations
- Supervise safe, efficient, and cost-effective air traffic management services.
- Manage ATS operations during contingency, emergency, and crisis situations.
- Implement ATM transformation initiatives and operational improvements.
- Manage departmental budgets, personnel, and other operational resources.
- Lead, mentor, and develop operational staff while maintaining competency and licensing standards.
- Participate in the planning and implementation of future CNS/ATM systems and technologies.
- Coordinate with national and international aviation stakeholders.
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual operational reports.
Search and Rescue Operations
- Develop and implement a national Search and Rescue Plan.
- Coordinate and monitor SAR activities in line with ICAO Annex 12 requirements.
- Establish and maintain a Search and Rescue Coordination Sub-Centre (RSC).
- Maintain bilateral agreements with neighbouring States for SAR cooperation and interoperability.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Air Traffic Management, Aviation Management, or a 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.
- ICAO English Language Proficiency Level 4 or higher.
- Valid Air Traffic Control Licence with Aerodrome, Approach Procedural, and Approach Radar ratings.
- Valid Class 3 Medical Certificate.
Work Experience
- At least 5 years’ experience as a licensed Approach Procedural and/or Radar Controller with an OJTI rating.
- At least 3 years’ experience in a supervisory or management role within Air Traffic Services, preferably at Principal Air Traffic Control Officer level or equivalent.
- Demonstrated experience in Search and Rescue operations and coordination.
Added Advantages
- Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
- Qualification or experience in Safety Management Systems (SMS).
- Qualification or experience in Quality Management Systems (QMS).
- Leadership and Management Training Certificate.
- Mass Rescue Operations (MRO) Certificate.
- ATC Examiner Certificate.
- Search and Rescue Administrators Certificate.
Other Requirement
- Full Aviation Security Clearance.
Skills and Competencies
- Leadership and people management.
- Strategic planning and execution.
- Decision-making and problem-solving.
- Change management.
- Time management and organization.
- Air Traffic Management and Operations.
- Search and Rescue coordination.
- Safety and Quality Management Systems.
- Stakeholder relationship management.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Analytical thinking, sound judgement, integrity, and professionalism.
Knowledge Requirements
- Civil Aviation Regulations and ICAO SARPs.
- Air Traffic Management concepts, CNS/ATM systems, and ASBU initiatives.
- Performance-Based Navigation (PBN).
- Safety Management Systems and risk management principles.
- Aeronautical Search and Rescue standards, regulations, and procedures.
- Aviation security management and ATM security programmes.
- Fatigue Risk Management Systems.
- Aviation meteorology and AWOS systems.
- Aviation accident and incident investigation.
- Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
- Human Capital policies and information systems.
How to Apply
Submit the following documents:
- Complete and up-to-date Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of academic certificates and professional accreditations
Email applications to: recruitment@eswacaa.co.sz
Deadline: Friday, 21 August 2026
Please quote “Chief Air Traffic Control & Search and Rescue Officer” in the subject line of your email.
Note: Only emailed applications will be admissible. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
