ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Air Freight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southwest Air

Freight Agent - PHL

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$21.01/hr

Works in air freight facilities * May be exposed to a wide variety of weather conditions and jet ... Handles any aspect of processing a cargo shipment by operating a computerized point-of-sale system ...

New

Röhlig-Grindrod

Air Import Operations

Cranford, NJ

$60K - $70K/yr

... Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate is highly organized, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and has a strong understanding of international freight forwarding and air import operations.

Worldwide Flight Services

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

... operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and ... Operate air freight handling equipment such as pallet jacks and gaylords (push carts). * Weighing ...

Worldwide Flight Services

$17 - $20.25/hr

... operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and ... Operate air freight handling equipment such as pallet jacks and gaylords (push carts). * Weighing ...

Worldwide Flight Services

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

... operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and ... Operate air freight handling equipment such as pallet jacks and gaylords (push carts). * Weighing ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsTravel JobsAviation JobsAir Traffic Controller JobsAir Freight Operator Jobs

Air Freight Operator information

See salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do air freight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 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 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.

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 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 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.
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 are popular job titles related to Air Freight Operator jobs?

For Air Freight Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Air Freight Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Air Freight Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,900 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Air Export Agent

Houston, TX • On-site

Air Express International USA, Inc.
See more jobs at Air Express International USA, Inc.external

$23.36 - $31.14/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate all parties involved in air export shipments to ensure timely bookings and shipment movement.

  • Prepare export documentation such as Cargo Wise entries, Certificate of Origin, Cargo Manifest, NAFTA Certificate, and Airway Bill in accordance with country requirements.

  • Communicate regularly with customers and overseas partners regarding shipment status, departure, and arrival updates.

Job description

Job Title:  Air Export Agent
Job Location: Houston, Texas

DHL Global Forwarding (DGF) is the world leader in air freight services and one of the leading providers of ocean freight services. Around 30,000 employees work to ensure we transport our customers of shipments by air or sea. DGF's logistics solutions span the entire supply chain, from the factory to the shop floor. This also includes special transport-related services.  Visit our career site on the web at https://www.logistics.dhl/us-en/home/careers.html

As an Air Export Agent you will be responsible for the movement of our customer's air export shipments.  You will be the main point of contact for coordination between customer's shipment exports, customs brokers, and shipping carriers.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Completes coordination between all applicable parties for all air export shipments for our customers; ensures timely bookings with airline on customer behalf 
  • Prepares export documentation, including entry into Cargo Wise, in accordance to country requirements as well as the preparation of Certificate of Origin, Cargo Manifest, NAFTA Certificate, Airway Bill and any other documents required by the customer 
  • Compliant filing of AES (automated electronic system) export customs  
  • Communicates regularly with customer in regards to customer's shipment status as well as continuous communication with overseas to meet delivery commitments; follow-up with airline to monitor and track departure and arrival information and updates 
  • Ensures invoicing of rendered services is completed accurately and in a timeframe consistent with company policy. 
  • Ensure customer profiles are accurate and updated 
  • Meet all KPI's assigned and audited by the Control Tower 

Skills / Requirements:

  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • Detail oriented and strong follow-up skills
  • Proficient with Microsoft office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
  • Air freight industry experience preferred
  • Cargo Wise systems knowledge is a plus
  • ITAR experience or Foreign Military Sales (FMS) experience is a plus

Pay Range: $23.36 - 31.14/hr. (Based on Experience)



Benefits (All Non-Union Employees)

  • Compensation: Competitive base salary plus role dependent performance-based incentives.
  • 401(k) Match: $1-for-$1 match up to 4% quarterly + 2% annual base contribution.
  • Stock Purchase Plan: Ability to purchase Deutsche Post AG shares at a discounted rate.
  • Medical: Comprehensive plans covering preventive care, inpatient/outpatient services, and prescriptions.
  • Vision: Optional coverage for exams, frames, and contacts.
  • Dental: Optional coverage for preventive, basic, and major services.
  • Paid Time Off: 7 major holidays, 8 floating holidays, and accrued vacation/sick days.
 

Why Join DHL Global Forwarding?

At DHL Global Forwarding, we invest in our employees' growth, providing training, guidance, and career advancement opportunities. We believe in building careers, not just jobs, and empowering our team to develop skills and achieve long-term success.

Be part of DHL Group, the world's leading logistics provider, operating in 220+ countries. DHL Global Forwarding (DGF) is a global leader in air and ocean freight, with 30,000+ employees ensuring seamless transport and supply chain solutions. Explore careers with us: DHL Careers.

 

Equal Opportunity Employer

DHL Global Forwarding is committed to equal employment opportunities, evaluating all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

#LI-RL2


Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply