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$10

$17

$22

How much do air freight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for air freight operator in the United States is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an air freight operator?

To excel as an Air Freight Operator, you need a solid understanding of logistics, cargo handling, and international shipping regulations, often supported by relevant experience or vocational training in freight operations. Familiarity with cargo management software, air waybill systems, and customs documentation processes is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure timely, accurate, and compliant movement of goods, which is vital for maintaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

How does an air freight operator typically coordinate with other logistics professionals to ensure timely shipments?

Air Freight Operators work closely with a variety of logistics professionals, such as customs brokers, warehouse staff, and ground transportation teams, to ensure cargo is processed efficiently and shipped on schedule. They are responsible for tracking shipments, resolving delays, and communicating updates to clients and partners. This role often requires quick problem-solving and effective collaboration, especially when dealing with time-sensitive or high-value goods. Regular meetings and clear communication channels help Air Freight Operators manage these complex workflows and maintain smooth operations.

What is an air freight operator?

An air freight operator is a professional responsible for managing the transportation of goods via aircraft. They handle tasks such as cargo loading, documentation, and coordination with airlines and customs, often requiring knowledge of safety procedures and logistics software. The role typically involves working in a fast-paced environment and may require certifications like dangerous goods handling or forklift operation.

What is the difference between Air Freight Operator vs Cargo Handler?

AspectAir Freight OperatorCargo Handler
CredentialsCertifications in logistics, safety, and sometimes forklift operationBasic safety training, forklift certification often required
Work EnvironmentAirports, cargo warehouses, aircraft loading areasAirports, cargo terminals, loading docks
Employer & IndustryAirlines, freight forwarding companies, logistics providersAirlines, cargo companies, freight handlers
Job FocusManaging cargo movement, documentation, and loading proceduresLoading/unloading cargo, ensuring proper handling and safety

While both roles work within the air freight industry, the Air Freight Operator typically oversees cargo logistics, documentation, and coordination at airports, whereas the Cargo Handler focuses on physically loading, unloading, and handling cargo. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in responsibilities and scope of work.

What does an air freight operator do?

An Air Freight Operator is responsible for coordinating and managing the shipment of goods via air transport. Their duties include booking cargo space, preparing shipping documentation, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, tracking shipments, and communicating with clients and airlines. They play a crucial role in ensuring that goods are transported efficiently, safely, and on schedule. Air Freight Operators often work with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics companies to streamline the shipping process.
More about Air Freight Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Air Freight Operator jobs? Cities with the most Air Freight Operator job openings:
What job categories do people searching Air Freight Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Air Freight Operator jobs are:
Air Freight Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Freight Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,900 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Air Freight Specialist

Ashley Global Retail, LLC

Arcadia, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Ashley Furniture rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 290 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 51 rated furniture manufacturers

Job description

Air Freight Specialist
Ashley Furniture Industries |International Logistics & Customer Support
Keep the World Moving. Coordinate Global Air Freight for the #1 Furniture Company.
Ashley Furniture is seeking an Air Freight Specialist to join our International Logistics & Customer Support team in Arcadia, Wisconsin. If you're detail-oriented, enjoy problem-solving, and want to play a critical role in our global supply chain, this is your opportunity to join the most innovative and competitive furniture company on the planet.
In this role, you'll coordinate and monitor international air freight shipments from origin to final destination, ensuring timely delivery, customs compliance, and cost-effective transportation solutions that support Ashley's mission to deliver quality products to customers worldwide.
About Ashley Furniture
We're driven by a Massively Transformative Purpose: to inspire the love of home and enrich the lives of those around us by being the most innovative and competitive furniture company on the planet.
Our mission: Improve Quality. Reduce Costs. Do More Business. Be Profitable. Stay in Business.
We live our core values every day:
  • Honesty & Integrity - Be forthright in all we do
  • Passion, Drive & Discipline - Give everything to your role
  • Dirty Fingernail - You get what you inspect, not what you expect
  • Continuous Improvement - Know the business and make it better
  • Customer Centric - Deliver on what is promised to the customer
  • Boundaryless - Work for the greater good of the organization

The Opportunity
As our Air Freight Specialist, you'll be the vital link in our international supply chain, coordinating air shipments across all Ashley locations globally. You'll work boundarylessly with internal teams, international vendors, customs brokers, and freight carriers to ensure seamless movement of products from origin to destination.
This role is perfect for someone with strong attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to Continuous Improvement in logistics processes.
What You'll Do
Coordinate & Track International Air Shipments
  • Track shipments from origin to final destination across global routes
  • Coordinate with Classification Team to provide accurate customs clearance information to air carriers
  • Research and resolve issues preventing shipments from being delivered or dispatched
  • Update inventory and shipping information manually as needed to ensure data accuracy
  • Monitor and prioritize shipments imperative for production needs or market deadlines

Ensure Customs Compliance & Documentation
  • Provide accurate customs clearance information to ensure timely and effective clearance
  • Maintain and retain international correspondence in accordance with U.S. Customs requirements
  • Update internal systems with necessary customs clearance information
  • Stay current with importing/exporting rules, regulations, and international shipping industry changes
  • Communicate relevant findings to management to maintain compliance

Manage Purchase Orders & Delivery Coordination
  • Monitor and maintain purchase order (PO) due dates in Ashley's internal computer systems
  • Research and resolve POs that fall outside acceptable variance ranges
  • Communicate delivery information to internal contacts as needed
  • Coordinate less than container load (LCL) shipments from quote to delivery

Process Payments & Audit Billing
  • Process and approve wire payments for sample shipments and service providers
  • Coordinate with Accounts Payable to submit payments accurately and on time
  • Validate statements for accuracy and ensure records are stored properly
  • Audit air carrier/broker billing to ensure accurate clearance information and competitive freight charges
  • Resolve billing issues as needed to protect Ashley's interests

Drive Cost Optimization
  • Continually monitor costs and current air freight market conditions
  • Ensure Ashley secures most competitive rates in the industry
  • Prepare and provide costing analysis upon request
  • Analyze and recommend carrier assignments based on cost and service analysis
  • Embody our mission to Reduce Costs while maintaining service excellence

Support Export Operations
  • Coordinate export shipments including documentation compilation
  • Communicate with vendors/offices at origin for seamless coordination
  • Notify service providers of pick-up information and requirements
  • Determine payment information as needed for international transactions

Lead Training & Process Improvement
  • Provide training and support to international vendors and overseas offices on air freight procedures
  • Assist with maintaining standard operating procedures for the Freight Team
  • Determine areas in need of improvement and make recommendations
  • Assist with creating, implementing, and monitoring process improvement changes
  • Collect and update information in accordance with team key process measures
  • Champion Continuous Improvement in all logistics operations

What You'll Bring
Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 1+ year of office support, clerical, or administrative work experience
  • Some college coursework or equivalent work experience preferred

Skills & Abilities
Core Competencies:
  • Strong attention to detail - Critical for customs compliance and accurate documentation
  • Excellent communication skills - Verbal and written communication with international partners
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills - Troubleshoot shipping issues and resolve delays
  • Time management and organizational skills - Handle multiple shipments and priorities simultaneously
  • Customer orientation - Deliver on commitments to internal and external customers
  • Adaptability - Thrive in fast-paced, dynamic international logistics environment

Technical Skills:
  • Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite
  • Proficient keyboarding and 10-key skills
  • Document management systems experience
  • Ability to learn import logistics, international transportation, and customs regulations
  • Working knowledge of Continuous Improvement methodologies

Personal Attributes:
  • Work independently as well as in a team environment
  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive shipping and financial information
  • Display empathy, understanding, and patience with employees and external customers
  • Respond professionally in difficult situations with vendors or internal partners
  • Perform under strong demands in a fast-paced environment
  • Initiating Action - Take ownership and proactively address issues

Work Environment & Schedule
  • Location: Chippewa Falls, WI (onsite position)
  • Environment: Office-based with standard office equipment
  • Schedule: Full-time with flexibility to work extended hours when necessary
  • Travel: Opportunity for domestic travel as needed
  • Physical Requirements: Predominantly seated work with ability to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally

Why Join Ashley's International Logistics Team?
  • Global Impact: Coordinate shipments supporting Ashley locations worldwide
  • Continuous Learning: Develop expertise in international logistics, customs regulations, and freight operations
  • Career Growth: Build skills and advance within a growth-focused organization
  • Team Environment: Work with supportive colleagues committed to excellence
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match
  • Stability: Join an industry leader committed to staying in business for generations

Ready to Launch Your Logistics Career?
If you're detail-oriented, customer-focused, and ready to play a critical role in global supply chain operations, we want to hear from you.
Join Ashley and help us deliver on our promise to inspire the love of home around the world.
Apply Now
Ashley Furniture Industries is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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