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Aircraft Cargo Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Cargo Handler

Seattle, WA

$23.17/hr

Break down express freight from aircraft cargo containers and rebuild it into organized stacks on pallets. * Unload Unit Load Devices (ULDs) by releasing straps, opening doors, and removing assorted ...

Everts Air

Cargo Agent

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$21/hr

Able to correctly load or assist in loading cargo onto various company aircraft, with competency applied to tie down and restraint of loaded cargo. * Will meet arriving flights supporting aircraft ...

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - PT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI

$20/hr

... aircraft and equipment, engaging and disengaging of air-start and ground power units, cargo ... load and even distribution of weight. • Itemizes charges, prepares freight bills, accepts ...

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - FT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI

$20/hr

... aircraft and equipment, engaging and disengaging of air-start and ground power units, cargo ... load and even distribution of weight. • Itemizes charges, prepares freight bills, accepts ...

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - PT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI

$20/hr

... aircraft and equipment, engaging and disengaging of air-start and ground power units, cargo ... load and even distribution of weight. • Itemizes charges, prepares freight bills, accepts ...

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - FT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI · On-site

$20/hr

... aircraft and equipment, engaging and disengaging of air-start and ground power units, cargo ... load and even distribution of weight. • Itemizes charges, prepares freight bills, accepts ...

Yulista

NSA - Aircraft Mechanic II

Farmington, NM · On-site

$27.75 - $36.50/hr

Weighs, loads, and restrains cargo. Ensures compliance with aircraft baggage and cargo limitations. Supervises refueling and checking fuel and lubricant levels. Receives and stows catering materials.

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - FT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI · On-site

$20/hr

... aircraft and equipment, engaging and disengaging of air-start and ground power units, cargo ... load and even distribution of weight. • Itemizes charges, prepares freight bills, accepts ...

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - PT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI · On-site

$20/hr

... aircraft and equipment, engaging and disengaging of air-start and ground power units, cargo ... load and even distribution of weight. • Itemizes charges, prepares freight bills, accepts ...

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Aircraft Cargo Loader information

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How much do aircraft cargo loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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.

How much do plane loaders make?

Aircraft cargo loaders typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the employer, and the job often requires physical strength and familiarity with loading equipment.

What is the highest paying aircraft job?

The highest paying aircraft cargo loader jobs are typically found in roles with additional responsibilities, such as supervisory or management positions, or specialized roles like aircraft load planners. Salaries can also be higher for those with extensive experience, certifications, or working for major airlines or cargo carriers. However, overall, aircraft cargo loaders tend to have moderate pay compared to other aviation roles like pilots or aircraft maintenance managers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aircraft Cargo Loader position, and why are they important?

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 skills do you need to be a cargo loader?

Aircraft cargo loaders need physical strength, good coordination, and attention to safety procedures. They should be able to operate loading equipment such as conveyor belts and forklifts, and often require certification in safety standards. Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a team are also important for efficient operations.

What is an Aircraft Cargo Loader job?

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.

How much does cargo pay?

Aircraft cargo loaders typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Overtime, shift differentials, and certifications can increase overall pay. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced loaders or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages.

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.

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Aircraft Cargo Loader jobs near you
Cargo Handler

Cargo Handler

Aerotek

Seattle, WA

$23.17/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Hiring Warehouse Cargo Handlers in SeaTac, WA

Pay: $23.17/hour

Schedule: 11:30pm - 8am (must be flexible to work on weekends)

Job Description

This role supports an air cargo warehouse operation by unloading aircraft containers, organizing packages, and preparing freight for outbound transport. You will work an overnight shift, handling mostly light consumer packages, using hand scanners and material handling equipment to move freight safely and efficiently across the warehouse.

Responsibilities

  • Break down express freight from aircraft cargo containers and rebuild it into organized stacks on pallets.
  • Unload Unit Load Devices (ULDs) by releasing straps, opening doors, and removing assorted cardboard boxes safely and efficiently
  • Climb into large metal ULDs when needed to reach and remove packages safely.
  • Stack boxes within larger boxes
  • Use hand scanners to scan, sort, and track packages
  • Move palletized freight across the warehouse, approximately 60 yards, from the receiving area to the loading dock using pallet jacks or by assisting a forklift operator.
  • Load organized pallets and large cardboard containers onto trucks at the loading dock area.
  • Follow all warehouse and airport procedures
  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves and steel-toe footwear, to handle straps, boxes, and equipment safely.

Essential Skills

  • 1+ years of warehouse experience highly preferred, including use of hand scanners, skids, and packaging materials such as tape and cardboard.
  • Experience with warehouse sorting, packaging, and general material handling.
  • Ability to use hand scanners to track and manage packages.
  • Experience using pallet jacks and working around forklifts in a warehouse environment.
  • Familiarity with air cargo or palletizing operations is preferred.
  • Ability to read and write English to complete required training and quizzes on warehouse and airport procedures
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of SeaTac, WA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $23.17 - $23.17/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in SeaTac,WA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 11, 2026.

About Aerotek

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meets their goals, skills and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role solving for companies’ construction, manufacturing and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.

Aerotek offers weekly pay, employee benefits including medical, dental & vision, life insurance, health advocacy and employee assistance programs, a 401(k) plan, and employee discounts.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):
We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Company Description

We know that finding work is hard, and finding meaningful work is harder. Aerotek connects 180,000+ light industrial and skilled trades workers with 14,000+ employers each year, helping our workers navigate an evolving labor market and find jobs that meet their goals, skills, and interests. Since 1983, we have provided a variety of career opportunities across North American industry – from short-term assignments at Fortune 500 companies where you can build your skills, to long-term opportunities where you can play a vital role in solving companies’ construction, manufacturing, and maintenance challenges. Our 1,500+ experienced recruiters across 250+ offices work relentlessly to put our workforce in a position to thrive. Let us rise to meet your challenges and put our people-are-everything spirit to the test as your career continues to grow.