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Aircraft Freight Loader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Physical handling of freight and company material * Marshalling aircraft and equipment * Operate ground equipment, including tugs and belt loaders * Clean and service cabin interiors, including ...

Airline Ramp Agent

Flint, MI · On-site

$14/hr

Physical handling of freight and company material * Marshalling aircraft and equipment * Operate ground equipment, including tugs and belt loaders * Clean and service cabin interiors, including ...

Ground Handler

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Physical handling of freight and company material * Marshalling aircraft and equipment * Operate ground equipment, including tugs and belt loaders * Clean and service cabin interiors, including ...

Physical handling of freight and company material * Marshalling aircraft and equipment * Operate ground equipment, including tugs and belt loaders * Clean and service cabin interiors, including ...

Consolidate loads with a common destination to reduce costs to individual shippers. * Monitor or ... aircraft, trains, or trucks. * Negotiate shipping rates with freight carriers. * Arrange delivery ...

Showing results 21-33

Aircraft Freight Loader information

See Michigan salary details

$14

$20

$31

How much do aircraft freight loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft freight loader in Michigan is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft freight loader?

Aircraft Freight Loaders are professionals responsible for loading and unloading cargo, baggage, and mail onto and off airplanes. They ensure that all items are securely placed and balanced according to safety regulations and flight plans. Their duties also include verifying cargo manifests, operating loading equipment, and collaborating with ground crew to maintain efficient turnaround times. This role is vital in keeping flights on schedule and ensuring the safe transportation of goods and luggage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft freight loader?

To thrive as an Aircraft Freight Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cargo loading systems, pallet jacks, forklifts, and safety protocols is typically required, along with certifications like OSHA training. Strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills help ensure safe and efficient operations under tight deadlines. These skills are crucial to maintain safety, prevent cargo damage, and support timely aircraft departures.

What are some common challenges faced by aircraft freight loaders, and how can they be managed?

Aircraft Freight Loaders often face challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing time-sensitive loading schedules, and ensuring cargo is properly secured for flight safety. To manage these challenges, loaders must be attentive to safety protocols, maintain clear communication with team members and supervisors, and stay organized to meet tight deadlines. Proper training and teamwork are essential for handling heavy loads efficiently and minimizing the risk of injury or error.

What is the difference between Aircraft Freight Loader vs Aircraft Cargo Handler?

AspectAircraft Freight LoaderAircraft Cargo Handler
CredentialsTypically requires safety certifications and training in cargo handlingSimilar certifications, often including safety and equipment operation
Work EnvironmentAirports, cargo warehouses, aircraft tarmacsAirports, cargo terminals, aircraft loading areas
Job ResponsibilitiesLoading/unloading cargo, securing freight, ensuring safetyHandling cargo, verifying shipments, assisting with loading

Both roles involve cargo handling at airports, requiring safety training and working in similar environments. The main difference lies in specific job duties: Aircraft Freight Loaders focus on loading and securing freight onto aircraft, while Aircraft Cargo Handlers may have broader responsibilities including verifying shipments and assisting with cargo documentation.

What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Freight Loader jobs in Michigan?

For Aircraft Freight Loader jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Freight Loader job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 27% Full Time, and 73% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,197 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Ground Handler (1766)

AVFUEL/AVFLIGHT

Traverse City, MI

$17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Job description

General Purpose of Job:

This position is responsible for providing customer service to all people desiring to use customer or charter service by being attentive to their needs, politely handling their inquiries promptly, and completing the required transactions as noted below. Additional responsibilities include cargo handling, ramp, aircraft cleaning, and other assigned duties.

Duties:

  • Provide efficient, friendly service to all of our customers
  • Complete all necessary arrangements for accommodating passengers such as prepare itineraries, compute fares, issue refunds, prepare and issue tickets, check baggage, as well as collect excess baggage charges
  • Complete all necessary arrangements for accommodating passengers with reservations, standby's, luggage, cabin availability and in-flight supplies
  • Guide passengers from the terminal to and from aircraft ensuring a safe path at all times
  • Perform the loading and unloading of cargo on and off aircraft
  • Transport cargo between terminals and aircraft
  • Physical handling of freight and company material
  • Marshalling aircraft and equipment
  • Operate ground equipment, including tugs and belt loaders
  • Clean and service cabin interiors, including cockpit, lavatories and draining lavatories
  • Use safety related equipment and provide de-icing service to the aircraft when needed
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to push/pull/lift 50 lbs. for extended periods of time
  • Ability to read and write English; bilingual skills a plus
  • Ability to work efficiently under time constraints
  • Must be available to work varied hours including swing and graveyard shifts plus weekends and holidays
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Must pass background check, pre-employment drug test and obtain security clearance Must have authorization to work in the U.S.
  • Must have valid Driver's license
  • Must be willing to work outside in all types of weather and elevated noise levels within the airport environment

Competency/Behavioral Requirements:

  • Be pleasant with others on the job and display a good-natured, cooperative attitude
  • Be reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfill obligations
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Maintain composure, keep emotions in check, control anger, and avoid aggressive behavior even in difficult situations
  • Accept criticism and deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations be open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace
  • Willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges
  • Be sensitive to others' needs and feelings and be understanding and helpful on the job

Physical Demands :

Must be able to carry 50 pound suitcase from the floor to 18 inches and carry 50 pound suitcase in front of you with both hands for a distance of up to 25 feet; must have physical dexterity sufficient to perform repetitive tasks and motions, including bending at the waist and knees, squatting, kneeling, crawling, twisting and sustaining those positions for extended amounts of time. Must have sufficient vision and ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position.

Work Environment:

Airport environment: Indoors and Outdoors. Extreme outdoor conditions where extreme temperature ranges may be encountered.

EEO/AA