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Air Freight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Worldwide Flight Services

... 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 ...

Northern Air Cargo

NAC Cargo Service Agent

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20.25/hr

Saltchuk Aviation employs over 900 employees in the air cargo, ground handling, aircraft maintenance, aviation logistics, and air freight on-demand charter sectors across five operating companies ...

Worldwide Flight Services

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

Transport, load and unload air freight containers from aircraft within confined areas * Push, pull ... Operating ramp equipment with gross weights of 3,000 to 80,000 lbs. in areas congested with ...

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Air Freight Operator information

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$10

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How much do air freight operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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 air cargo pays the most?

In the air freight industry, cargo handlers and freight coordinators often earn higher salaries, especially those with specialized skills or certifications such as dangerous goods handling or customs clearance. Additionally, roles involving aircraft load planning or managing high-value shipments tend to pay more due to increased responsibility. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and company size.

Is air freight delivery services a good career path?

A career as an air freight operator involves managing the transportation of goods via air cargo, requiring knowledge of logistics, safety procedures, and often certification. It can offer stable employment with opportunities for advancement in the logistics and transportation industry, especially for those with strong organizational and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Air Freight Operator, and why are they important?

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.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Air Freight Operators typically require relevant training and sometimes certifications, but working on a cargo ship usually requires maritime experience or specific maritime training. Entry-level positions on cargo ships often prefer candidates with prior seafaring or logistics experience, and safety certifications like STCW may be necessary. Without experience, it is unlikely to qualify for a cargo ship role directly, but starting in related logistics or entry-level maritime positions can be a pathway.
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Air Freight Operator jobs near you

Senior Business Development Manager - Air Freight

Air Express International USA, Inc.

Houston, TX • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Business Development Manager - Air Freight

Job Location: Houston, Texas

We are the world's leading logistics provider with operations in over 220 countries. In this position, you will support the Global Forwarding division of DHL that manages the flow of goods and information across a customer's global supply chain.

As a Senior Business Development Manager, you will act as a bridge between our customers and our business units using a consultative selling strategy to understand the customers' business, including their current situation and their future direction, and propose a series of solutions and capabilities that exceed their needs and enhance their ability to drive improved business results.

You will be responsible for gaining new business as well as keeping and growing existing customers in line with DHL's strategies to ensure growth of DHL Global Forwarding within an assigned territory.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Win, retain and develop medium-sized Business Customers through sales "hunting" activity, correctly assessing the prospective account as Profitable, Significant or Strategic in order to secure winning bids.
  • Maximize sales growth from existing customers through the development of new sales, product marketing, and customer support strategies; and achieving specific volume growth targets in the assigned area(s) of the business.
  • Build rapport and trust with customers by being informed about customer's business and the market and support customer retention through collaboration with all resources including our Product teams, Trade Lane Managers, other sales channels, and local Station Management.
  • Recommend solutions based on customer needs by using industry knowledge
  • Engage in organizing and supporting customer workshops intended to share information across diverse subjects such as Import brokerage compliance regulations, new product offerings, and other training intended to benefit the client
  • Use networks within the various Sales channels within Deutsche Post DHL to collaborate on customers, marketing strategies and offers a full supply chain of services to service customer needs
  • Collect relevant customer information for the RFI/RFP/RFQ and prepare documents for customer implementation in order to ensure proper operational handover and implementation to meet customer expectations
  • Perform all aspects of the sales process and input & update all relevant activities utilizing CRM daily

Your skills and experience:

  • Requires a minimum of 3-5 years field sales in freight forwarding or two years of operational experience.
  • 5+ year of Sales Experience (international logistics/Air Freight sales preferred)
  • Experience with logistics processes, systems and solutions.
  • Solid PC operational knowledge along with Microsoft Office applications experience
  • Knowledge of international commercial transportation (air and ocean freight required)
  • Bachelor degree desired
  • Outgoing, upbeat and resourceful personality!
  • Ability to maneuver through a global network to ensure best customer service


Base Pay Range: $79,777.50 - $106,370.00+ (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.

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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