We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
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’llmonitor 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.
We’re committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
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
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.