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Air Freight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Southwest Airlines

Freight Agent - AMA

Amarillo, TX · 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 ...

NAC/NAMS

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

$15.75 - $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 ...

RemX

Be Seen First

Air & Ocean Export Agent

Medley, FL · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Handle FCL, LCL, and air freight export operations. * Prepare, review, and process export ... Maintain accurate records and shipment data within company operating systems. * Ensure adherence to ...

New

Givens

Industrial Forklift Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $18.25/hr

Industrial Forklift Operator Givens is Driven to Deliver- both for our customers and our employees ... air freight services. We have been growing significantly over the last few years and continue to ...

Worldwide Flight Services

$15.25 - $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 ...

Worldwide Flight Services

$15.25 - $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

$17

$22

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.

San Juan, PR

$65K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Senior Business Development Manager - Air Freight

Job Location: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Objective:

As a Senior Business Development Manager, your focus will be to achieve results that align with the organization's strategic goals, including prospecting and finding new business opportunities.  To succeed in this role, you should possess initiative, a competitive drive, and the ability to stay focused on results despite changing conditions. Your proactive approach to prospecting and your ability to identify and pursue new business prospects will be the key in driving the growth and success of the organization.

Role Overview:

As a Senior Business Development Manager, you will collaborate with multiple stakeholders in the sales process to ensure consistent revenue growth from new customers. This position offers a flexible and dynamic work environment, providing opportunities for growth, recognition, and rewards based on business results.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Identify and contact prospective customers, assess customer needs and match with products / services
  • Seek opportunities for increased and profitable sales on new and existing accounts; make presentations to prospective or existing accounts to propose rate structures and service options
  • Actively pursue new business opportunities and drive KPIs
  • Manage an assigned territory with extensive knowledge of potential customers and competitors
  • Foster customer and station relationships while collaborating with regional resources
  • Facilitate the transition of new accounts through introductions, information transfer, and securing necessary customer paperwork; assist with accounts receivable collection when needed
  • Generate and analyze sales reports to track performance, identify trends, and measure progress towards sales targets


Qualifications:

  • Minimum 2+ years of successful sales experience within the forwarding industry, demonstrating a strong hunter sales mentality driven by goals and self-motivation, AFR experience preferred.
  • Proficient in using a CRM system and MS Office Products
  • Skilled in building rapport and fostering strong customer relationships, with the ability to regularly meet with customers off-site
  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills
  • Strong negotiation skills to effectively navigate complex sales deals and contract agreements
  • Demonstrate a sense of urgency in achieving goals; adaptable and self-motivated in fast-paced, dynamic environments
  • Empowered to make quick decisions in response to changing conditions
  • Skilled in effectively persuading and motivating others to take action


Pay Range: $65,272.50 - $87,030.00+ (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.

#LI-RL2

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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