Southwest Airlines

Senior Safety Programs Specialist

Southwest Airlines • $81K — $90K *
Dallas, TX 75217In-Person
Transportation
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5-7 years of experience in occupational safety and health programs
  • OSHA 30-Hour Safety Certification or equivalent
  • Experience with Safety Management Systems
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Intermediate knowledge of safety regulations and compliance

Responsibilities

  • Serve as subject matter expert on OSHA issues
  • Develop and maintain Company Safety Programs
  • Evaluate and update Safety policies and compliance programs
  • Respond to safety issues and provide regulatory guidance
  • Review communications for regulatory compliance
  • Stay current with safety regulations and update programs
  • Assist with OSHA inspections and citations
  • Mentor Safety Programs Specialist team members
  • Collaborate with departments to develop Safety training

Benefits

  • Free flights on Southwest Airlines for you and eligible dependents
  • 401(k) match contribution of up to 9.3%
  • Profit-sharing opportunities based on company performance
  • Comprehensive health insurance options available from day one
  • 30-day window to enroll in health plans with retroactive coverage
Full Job Description
Department:
Safety & Security

Job Description:

The Senior Safety Programs Specialist supports Southwest's Safety organization by leading the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of occupational safety programs across the Company. They'll serve as a subject matter expert for safety initiatives, partnering with Stakeholders across the business to drive compliance, evaluate program effectiveness, and implement meaningful enhancements that support a safe work environment. They'll monitor performance, identify emerging risks and opportunities, and proactively develop solutions that strengthen safety outcomes and operational readiness. The Senior Safety Programs Specialist leverages strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills to influence change, foster a culture of Safety, and drive continuous improvement across the organization.

Additional Details:

  • The culture of Southwest Airlines means we value the camaraderie, collaboration, and innovation that occurs when we come together and interact face-to-face at our vibrant Corporate Campus. Due to the nature of this role, you would be required to work from our Dallas, TX Headquarters facility during business hours.
  • U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.


Responsibilities
  • Serve as subject matter expert on Southwest Airlines and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) safety issues and programs
  • Develop, review and maintain Company Safety Programs, including administration and/or oversight of Occupational Programs owned by Safety & Security
  • Evaluate and update Safety policies, procedures and compliance programs as part of our Safety Management System
  • Respond to issues from the Field and Corporate departments, and provide guidance based on Federal/state regulation, Company policy and industry best practices
  • Review internal and external communications to ensure regulatory compliance
  • Stay up to date with regulatory requirements and develop SWA Safety programs as needed
  • Assist Field Support Team with responses to OSHA complaint letters, site inspections and citations
  • Mentor Safety Programs Specialist Team members
  • Work with Southwest Airlines University (SWAU) and Operating Departments to develop effective Safety training
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Intermediate knowledge of Occupational Safety regulations and resources
  • Skilled in verbal and written communications
  • Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite tools
  • Ability to identify complex problems and review related information in order to develop and evaluate options and implement effective solutions
  • Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems


Education
  • Required: High School Diploma or GED


Experience
  • Intermediate level experience, fully functioning broad knowledge in:
    • Writing and overseeing Occupational Safety Programs
    • Safety Management Systems

  • Preferred: Experience leading cross-functional initiatives, across multiple business units, from initiation through implementation and sustainment.
  • Preferred: Experience supporting workplace occupational safety programs.


Licensing/Certification

  • Required: OSHA 30-Hour Safety Certification, or equivalent Safety training
  • Preferred: Professional Safety Certifications: ASP, CSP


Physical Abilities
  • Ability to perform work duties from limited space work station/desk/office area for extended periods of time
  • Ability to communicate and interact with others in the English language to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to use a computer and other office productivity tools with sufficient speed and accuracy to meet the demands of the job
  • Ability to perform assigned duties with potential exposure to excessive noise, vibrations and/or sensory conditions
  • Ability to work at elevated heights


Other Qualifications
  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Ability to travel and work extended hours based on operational needs


Pay & Benefits:
  • Competitive market salary from $81,200.00 per year to $90,200.00 per year* depending on qualifications and experience. For eligible Leadership and individual contributor roles, additional bonus opportunities are available and awarded at the discretion of the Company.


Benefits you'll love:
  • Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
  • Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar-for-dollar 401(k) Company match contribution of up to 9.3% of your eligible earnings**
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan-when Southwest profits, you profit***
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents
  • Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the very first day of employment. You'll have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan, and coverage will be retroactively available to your first day of employment.
  • Explore more benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits


*Pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period.

**401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match contributions may vary based on the position.

*** Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.

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About Southwest Airlines

AirTran Airways, a Fortune 1000 company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), has been ranked the number one low cost carrier in the Airline Quality Rating study for the past three years. AirTran Airways is the only major airline with Gogo Inflight Internet on every flight and offers coast-to-coast service on North America’s newest all-Boeing fleet.

Southwest Airlines Careers

Join the vibrant team at Southwest Airlines, a leading entity in the aviation industry known for its exceptional culture and commitment to innovation and diversity. As we continue to expand, there has never been a better time to explore job opportunities with us. Work You’ll Do At Southwest Airlines, we offer a variety of career paths ranging from aviation mechanics to customer service professionals, all united by a common goal of providing excellent service and maintaining the highest standards of safety. Our team members are the heart of our operations, and we empower them to succeed in their roles and beyond. Transform Your Career Step into a role at Southwest Airlines and join a team that values leadership, professional growth, and diversity training. Our employees are encouraged to lead from their first day, supported by our robust leadership development programs. Innovate with Us Southwest Airlines is at the forefront of innovation in the aviation industry. Join us and contribute to projects that redefine the future of air travel. Our collaborative environment fosters innovation, allowing every team member to make an impact. Be Part of a Great Team Our culture is built on connectivity and teamwork. At Southwest Airlines, you will work alongside dedicated professionals who share your passion for excellence. We celebrate diversity and believe it drives innovation, making us stronger and more responsive to our customers' needs. Future-Proof Your Career Southwest Airlines is committed to the professional development of our employees. With a wide range of benefits, from comprehensive health coverage to employee travel perks, we ensure that your career with us is rewarding. Continuous learning is part of our DNA, and we provide extensive training and development opportunities to help you grow your skills and advance your career. Internship Opportunities Kickstart your career with a Southwest Airlines internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, build your network, and learn from leaders who are eager to mentor the next generation of aviation professionals. Our internships offer a deep dive into the aviation world, preparing you for a full-time position in your chosen field. Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to take their career to new heights. Explore our job opportunities and find out how you can contribute to the Southwest Airlines family. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights—all from the people who make Southwest Airlines a great place to work. Explore Discover how innovation at Southwest Airlines is shaping the future of air travel and how you can be a part of it. Read more about our projects, team achievements, and the impact we’re making in the industry. Southwest Airlines Careers Our commitment to professional growth, a dynamic culture, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace makes Southwest Airlines not just a great place to work, but a community where you can build a fulfilling career. Join us and see where your skills and passions can take you.
Learn more about Southwest Airlines
Size
58,865 employees
Market Cap
$19.8 billion
Industry
Aerospace & Defense
Net Income
-$3 billion
Founded
1971
5 Year Trend
-4.9%
Revenue
$9 billion
NASDAQ
LUV
* Ladders Estimates

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