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Air Freight Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Northern Air Cargo

NAC Station Agent

Bethel, AK · On-site

Every year, our incredible portfolio proudly moves over 380 million pounds of essential freight across the skies. Our premier operating companies and industry-leading brands include: * Northern Air ...

TKO StaffPros LLC

Forklift Operator

Dallas, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Stage, organize, and transport goods in support of export and air freight operations. * Perform ... Prior forklift operating experience required; sit-down forklift (electric or propane) experience ...

Southwest Airlines

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 ...

TKO StaffPros LLC

Forklift Operator

Irving, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Stage, organize, and transport goods in support of export and air freight operations. * Perform ... Prior forklift operating experience required; sit-down forklift (electric or propane) experience ...

TKO StaffPros LLC

Forklift Operator

Irving, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Stage, organize, and transport goods in support of export and air freight operations. * Perform ... Prior forklift operating experience required; sit-down forklift (electric or propane) experience ...

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 ...

Röhlig-Grindrod

Air Import Operations

Cranford, NJ · On-site

$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

$15.50 - $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 ...

Coda Staffing

Air Import Coordinator

Itasca, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

In this vital role, you will oversee the coordination and management of air freight imports ... Hands-on experience operating forklift trucks, reach trucks, pallet jacks, and RF scanners.

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Air Freight Operator information

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$10

$17

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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.
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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.

Director, Global Freight Services

San Rafael, CA • On-site

thepashagroup
See more jobs at thepashagroupexternal

$185K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Lead global freight operations across air, ocean, and inland networks to ensure reliable, customer-focused service.

  • Oversee planning, execution, and monitoring of complex freight movements such as project cargo, air freight, and over-high/wide shipments.

  • Develop and implement service delivery standards, operating procedures, and quality controls to improve accuracy, predictability, and milestone adherence.

Job description

Description
Position at The Pasha Group
Information for California residents about our collection and use of job applicant personal information can be found here: Privacy Practices
Director, Global Freight Services - Lead Global Freight Strategy, Multi-Modal Operations & Customer-Focused Service Excellence at The Pasha Group
Are you a seasoned freight operations leader with deep experience in project cargo, air freight, over-high and wide shipments, and complex global logistics? Join The Pasha Group as Director, Global Freight Services, where you will lead the development and execution of freight strategies that deliver safe, compliant, high-performing, and customer-focused service across global freight operations.
This leadership role is responsible for driving a unified operating model for Global Freight Services, strengthening service delivery standards, improving milestone reliability, advancing digital execution, and building scalable multi-modal logistics capabilities. You will lead teams across air, ocean, and inland freight networks while partnering with Operations, Customer Experience, Sales, Finance, Shared Services, vendors, carriers, and service providers to support reliable freight execution and long-term operational success.
Lead Global Freight Operations & Service Excellence
Drive safe, compliant, and consistent end-to-end freight execution across complex transportation networks.
  • Lead Multi-Modal Freight Operations: Oversee global freight activities across air, ocean, and inland transport networks to deliver reliable, customer-focused service.
  • Direct Complex Freight Movements: Lead teams responsible for planning, executing, monitoring, and closing out project cargo, air freight, over-high and wide shipments, and other complex moves.
  • Establish Operating Standards: Develop service delivery standards, operating procedures, and quality controls that improve accuracy, predictability, and milestone adherence.
  • Strengthen Case Management: Oversee issue resolution, escalation pathways, and critical-path decision-making to protect service commitments and customer outcomes.
  • Improve Service Reliability: Use operational data, visibility tools, and customer insights to reduce exceptions, improve cycle time, and strengthen execution across sites and trade lanes.

Drive Technology, Visibility & Data-Enabled Execution
Advance digital tools and analytics that improve freight visibility, decision quality, and operational performance.
  • Lead Technology Adoption: Drive adoption of TMS, shipment visibility platforms, EDI integrations, and digital tools across freight activities.
  • Improve Data Integrity: Strengthen tracking, workflow management, communication, and reporting processes to support accurate and timely freight execution.
  • Use Analytics for Improvement: Analyze operational performance, visibility data, and customer feedback to identify gaps, reduce delays, and improve service quality.
  • Enhance Decision Quality: Leverage data literacy and reporting tools to support better planning, risk management, and cross-functional decisions.
  • Standardize Digital Execution: Build scalable processes and governance controls that improve transparency and consistency across complex freight movements.

Strengthen Compliance, Risk Management & Operational Readiness
Ensure global freight operations meet safety, regulatory, trade, and customer requirements.
  • Lead Regulatory Compliance: Oversee practices related to international and domestic freight requirements, customs processes, hazardous materials handling, port and terminal rules, and applicable standards.
  • Support Complex Move Readiness: Strengthen planning for high-compliance or high-risk shipments through risk assessments, cargo surveys, equipment planning, and vendor capability evaluations.
  • Manage Safety Standards: Promote safe operating practices, sound judgment, and risk-aware decision-making across freight-related functions.
  • Protect Critical Shipments: Ensure operational teams are prepared to manage project cargo, heavy lift, OHW permitting, securement, and other specialized freight requirements.
  • Support Trade Documentation: Ensure teams understand key freight documentation needs, including customs processes, trade documentation, letters of credit, Incoterms, and hazardous materials fundamentals.

Manage Vendor Performance, Financial Discipline & Cross-Functional Alignment
Build strong partnerships and operating controls that support service quality, cost effectiveness, and enterprise goals.
  • Manage Carrier and Vendor Relationships: Oversee service provider performance, cost structures, operational scorecards, and service expectations.
  • Support Financial Performance: Lead budget planning, financial monitoring, and operational investment decisions that support cost effectiveness and organizational growth.
  • Apply Commercial Insight: Use knowledge of cost drivers, vendor rates, demurrage and detention, claims dynamics, and service requirements to support sound operational decisions.
  • Partner Across the Business: Collaborate with Operations, Customer Experience, Sales, Finance, and Shared Services to align freight execution with customer commitments and enterprise priorities.
  • Support Commercial Activities: Provide operational expertise for bids, proposals, feasibility reviews, and contracts without direct business development responsibility.

Build High-Performing Freight Teams & Continuous Improvement Culture
Develop leadership capability, frontline expertise, and accountability across multi-site freight operations.
  • Lead Management and Frontline Teams: Develop and support teams responsible for freight planning, execution, customer communication, documentation management, and continuous improvement.
  • Strengthen Leadership Capability: Coach leaders, build talent, support change adoption, and create accountability across matrixed and multi-site teams.
  • Promote Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture focused on safety, service quality, operational excellence, collaboration, and process improvement.
  • Resolve Cross-Functional Challenges: Lead escalations, influence decisions, and support practical solutions that improve service outcomes.
  • Build Scalable Practices: Create planning disciplines, governance controls, and standard operating procedures that support growth, reliability, and customer confidence.

What You Bring
You bring deep global freight experience, strong leadership capability, and the operational judgment needed to lead complex, high-compliance logistics environments.
  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations, or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Master's degree preferred
  • 8+ years of global freight operations experience with depth in project cargo, air freight, and over-high and wide planning and execution
  • 5+ years of senior management experience, including budgetary responsibilities
  • Expertise in multi-modal project logistics, heavy lift, OHW permitting, surveying, and securement practices
  • Strong knowledge of air and ocean freight operations
  • Working knowledge of customs processes, trade documentation, and letters of credit
  • Knowledge of Incoterms and hazardous materials handling fundamentals
  • Proficiency with TMS, shipment visibility tools, EDI integrations, Microsoft Office tools, and operational systems
  • Strong financial and commercial acumen related to freight cost drivers, vendor rate structures, demurrage and detention, and claims dynamics
  • Advanced communication, stakeholder management, escalation, and cross-functional problem-solving skills
  • Strong judgment in risk management, safety standards, and operational tradeoffs
  • Lean or Six Sigma certification preferred
  • Formal training in IATA Dangerous Goods and IMDG awareness preferred
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential preferred
  • Understanding of military/government contracts, agreements, terminology, documentation, and required performance metrics strongly preferred

Your Strengths
You are a strategic, customer-focused operations leader who brings structure, accountability, and continuous improvement to complex freight environments.
  • Strong ability to lead, motivate, coach, and develop high-performing management and frontline teams
  • Skilled at creating scalable processes, service standards, and operating disciplines across multiple sites and trade lanes
  • Analytical and data-driven, with the ability to turn operational insights into meaningful performance improvements
  • Confident decision-maker with strong judgment in safety, compliance, risk, and customer service situations
  • Collaborative partner who works effectively across Operations, Sales, Finance, Customer Experience, Shared Services, vendors, and carriers
  • Solutions-oriented leader who can resolve conflicts, influence decisions, and lead by example
  • Committed to modeling The Pasha Way: Excellence, Honesty & Integrity, Innovation, and Teamwork

Why You'll Love Working at The Pasha Group
This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of Global Freight Services within a respected transportation and logistics organization. You will help build a stronger, more scalable operating model that improves service quality, freight visibility, milestone reliability, and customer experience across complex global movements.
At The Pasha Group, you will work with experienced leaders and cross-functional partners to advance safe, compliant, technology-enabled freight operations that support customers, clients, and long-term business growth.
Work Environment
This role operates in a corporate office environment and requires regular use of computer systems, communication tools, operational platforms, reporting systems, and freight management technology.
Travel
Up to 15% travel is required. The successful candidate must be able to travel independently to U.S. locations, including Hawaii.
Screening Requirements
Background Checks
The information included in this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive or exhaustive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
The salary range listed is based on the geographic zone associated with this role: San Rafael, CA. If you are applying to work from a different location, the salary range may vary to align with the cost of labor and market conditions in that area. For applicants from other zones, we encourage you to reach out to us to confirm the relevant salary range for your specific location. Starting pay will be determined by job-related factors including experience, education, and business needs and may be modified at any time.
Zone 1: Starting rate $185,000; up to $225,000 for highly qualified candidates
This job is also eligible for participation in an Incentive Plan with a target payout based on eligible compensation and corporate/individual performance goal attainment.
Annual Incentive Opportunity: 20% of eligible compensation
The Pasha Group family of companies are EOE/AA Employers - Minority/Female/Veteran/Disabled/and other Protected Categories
Ready to Make an Impact?
Bring your global freight expertise, leadership experience, and passion for operational excellence to The Pasha Group. Help lead safe, scalable, digitally enabled freight operations that deliver stronger service, better visibility, and lasting customer value.
The Pasha Group family of companies are EOE/AA Employers - Minority/Female/Veteran/Disabled/and other Protected Categories

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