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Aircraft Cargo Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Handler, Cargo

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Load and offload cargo and baggage from carts, vehicles, and aircraft * Verify airway bills, manifests, and cargo documentation for accuracy * Marshal aircraft in and out of position and support ramp ...

Handler, Cargo

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Load and offload cargo and baggage from carts, vehicles, and aircraft * Verify airway bills, manifests, and cargo documentation for accuracy * Marshal aircraft in and out of position and support ramp ...

Load and offload cargo and baggage from carts, vehicles, and aircraft * Verify airway bills, manifests, and cargo documentation for accuracy * Marshal aircraft in and out of position and support ramp ...

Handler, Cargo

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Load and offload cargo and baggage from carts, vehicles, and aircraft * Verify airway bills, manifests, and cargo documentation for accuracy * Marshal aircraft in and out of position and support ramp ...

Cargo Agent

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20/hr

Job Summary: Cargo Agents are responsible for following all Everts Air Cargo (EAC) policies and ... aircraft, including use of forklifts, belt loaders, bob-tail trucks, chain carts and dollies, and ...

Loadmaster

$15.75 - $19.50/hr

Loads freight on to the organizations 747 aircraft in accordance with Cargo Operations and Weight and Balance, Manuals, with placement ensuring proper weight and balance for the aircraft type.

Ramp Agent

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

OverviewTo supervise all necessary and required under-wing and ground support services as contracted by the customer to include, but not be limited to, loading and unloading aircraft, cargo, Load ...

Cargo Agent

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20/hr

Cargo Agents are responsible for following all Everts Air Cargo (EAC) policies and procedures while ... aircraft, including use of forklifts, belt loaders, bob-tail trucks, chain carts and dollies, and ...

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Aircraft Cargo Loader information

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How much do aircraft cargo loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft cargo loader in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft cargo loader?

An Aircraft Cargo Loader is responsible for loading and unloading cargo, baggage, and other materials onto aircraft. They operate specialized equipment such as conveyor belts, forklifts, and cargo loaders to ensure items are transported safely and efficiently. This role requires physical strength, attention to detail, and adherence to safety regulations. Cargo loaders work in all weather conditions and often follow strict schedules to meet flight departure times.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the aircraft cargo loader position?

To thrive as an Aircraft Cargo Loader, you need physical strength, attention to detail, and basic math skills, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cargo handling equipment, load planning software, and safety certification such as OSHA training is valuable. Strong teamwork, communication skills, and reliability help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure cargo is loaded safely and efficiently, maintaining tight schedules and industry compliance.

What are the typical work conditions and schedule like for an aircraft cargo loader?

Aircraft Cargo Loaders often work in dynamic airport environments, handling cargo in all weather conditions on the tarmac and inside aircraft. Shifts may include nights, weekends, and holidays, as air freight operates around the clock. The work is physically demanding, involving lifting, moving, and securing cargo of varying sizes and weights, sometimes under tight time constraints. Teamwork is crucial, as loaders coordinate closely with ramp agents, supervisors, and flight crews to ensure efficient and safe operations.

How to become an aircraft cargo loader?

To become an aircraft cargo loader, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. On-the-job training is common, and physical strength, attention to safety procedures, and the ability to operate loading equipment are important skills for the role.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Cargo Loader jobs?

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What states have the most Aircraft Cargo Loader jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Aircraft Cargo Loader jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Aircraft Cargo Loader jobs are:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Cargo Loader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,188 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Handler, Cargo

Modern Aviation

Wilmington, NC • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


Modern Aviation rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

58th of 67 rated aviation services


Job description

Handler, Cargo

Wilmington, NC 28405

Overview

Salary Range $20.00 - $22.00 Hourly Position Type Part Time

Description

The part time Cargo Handler plays a key role in supporting aircraft cargo operations while delivering exceptional customer service to aircraft owners, passengers, and flight crews. This role works both inside the FBO terminal and outside on the aircraft parking ramp, coordinating closely with Line Service, Operations, and leadership teams to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant cargo handling and ancillary services.

Cargo Handling & Ramp Operations
  • Build, load, secure, and break down LD7 and other Unit Load Devices (ULDs) in accordance with airline or customer load plans
  • Stage, sort, and label cargo for build up and break down activities
  • Load and offload cargo and baggage from carts, vehicles, and aircraft
  • Verify airway bills, manifests, and cargo documentation for accuracy
  • Marshal aircraft in and out of position and support ramp operations
  • Operate ground support equipment including belt loaders, K loaders, de ice trucks, and other applicable equipment
  • Escort customer vehicles on and off the airfield when required
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership.
Safety, Compliance & Security
  • Ensure cargo security at all times and conduct dangerous goods and hazardous material checks (Class 6 & 10)
  • Follow all TSA, FAA, IS BAH, DOT, and OSHA regulations and safety protocols
  • Remain alert and responsive to hazards associated with moving aircraft, equipment, and ramp environments
  • Apply safety procedures consistently and escalate concerns to leadership when necessary
Customer Service & Experience
  • Meet, greet, and welcome passengers and flight crews upon aircraft arrival
  • Support flight crews with baggage handling, ground transportation, and operational needs
  • Direct flight crews to the terminal to place fuel and service orders
  • Follow up to ensure all fuel and service requests are completed to support on time departures
  • Thank customers for their business and encourage future visits
  • Champion best practices to continuously improve service delivery and customer experience
Communication & Teamwork
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with customers, teammates, and leadership
  • Use written, verbal, and radio communication effectively, including phonetic alphabet and aviation acronyms
  • Coordinate with Managers, Line Service, and other team members to respond to requests and resolve issues
  • Partner with fellow teammates when not actively supporting customer aircraft
  • Assume additional responsibilities as needed to support Modern Aviation's evolving business objectives
Physical Requirements & Schedule
  • Ability to perform frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, grasping, stretching, walking, sitting, and crawling
  • Ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to work in outdoor environments, including extreme heat, cold, wet, and humid conditions
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on flight schedules
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent; Associate degree in aviation or business related field preferred
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Prior aviation, warehouse, cargo, or ramp experience preferred
  • Familiarity with Unit Load Devices (ULDs) a plus
  • Knowledge of IATA and ICAO regulations preferred
  • Ability to read, write, and understand the English language
  • Comfortable learning and using computer software and Point of Sale systems
  • Ability to thrive in fast paced and high pressure environments

Working conditions and physical demands for this role

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to loud noise levels; high, precarious places; vibration; moving mechanical parts; and chemicals including aviation fuels, oils, and lavatory fluid. The employee will regularly work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, wet, and humid environments.

Note: The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

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Modern Aviation's Pay Range

$20.00 - $22.00/hr. *Part-time, Seasonal, and Variable positions are not eligible for health benefits.

The Modern Aviation pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, or other laws.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Modern Aviation is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer. Modern Aviation is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.

If you require accommodations during the interview process or have questions, please contact careers@modern-aviation.com.


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