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Aircraft Freight Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$15 - $18.25/hr

Transport, load and unload air freight containers from aircraft within confined areas * Push, pull and position loaded air freight containers weighing up to 3,200 lbs * Removal of tie-downs and other ...

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

... mail, express, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

$15.50 - $19/hr

... mail, express, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

Air Cargo Ramp Agent- RENO

Reno, NV · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

... mail, express, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

$15.50 - $19/hr

... mail, express, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

... mail, express, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

Air Cargo Ramp Agent- RENO

Reno, NV · On-site

$15.50 - $19/hr

... mail, express, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

... of freight and company material, export designated locations of the functions described ... Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined ...

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Aircraft Freight Loader information

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$23

$35

How much do aircraft freight loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft freight loader in the United States is $23.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are Aircraft Freight Loaders?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Aircraft Freight Loader jobs
What states have the most Aircraft Freight Loader jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Freight Loader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aircraft Freight Loader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aircraft Freight Loader jobs are:
Air Logistics Ramp Associate - Seasonal

Air Logistics Ramp Associate - Seasonal

Worldwide Flight Services

Kenner, LA • On-site

$12.75 - $15.50/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Worldwide Flight Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 53 rated aviation services


Job description

About WFS

Join our Worldwide Flight Services family and contribute to the timely delivery of cargo shipment, luggage, business to customer delivery, and on-time flights while operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and strive to be an exceptional leader in our industry with our teams of cargo, passenger, ramp handling, and technical service experts in 227 airport locations in 27 countries on 5 continents. Are you ready to take off on your next career with us?

Job Summary

As an Air Logistics Ramp Associate you will contribute to the timely delivery of Express packages by loading and unloading of air freight containers, moving these containers from airplane to truck for on-time delivery to our customers at our airport location. This job is a cross-dock operation; your role is to move Express packages from aircraft to warehouse to trucks with no/minimal storage.  Our indoor facility is an open-air environment and not temperature controlled, and you may work in or around aircraft. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day and strive to be an exceptional leader in our industry with our teams of warehouse and air logistic experts across our Express locations. Are you ready to take off on your next career with us?

Curious to learn more about us and what we do, click on the link here.: 

https://youtu.be/GYpMNdHT1-E

Responsibilities
  • Transport, load and unload air freight containers from aircraft within confined areas
  • Push, pull and position loaded air freight containers weighing up to 3,200 lbs
  • Removal of tie-downs and other gear when loading and unloading
  • Read "off-load" sheets to determine destination of Express packages
  • Operating ramp equipment with gross weights of 3,000 to 80,000 lbs. in areas congested with aircraft, moving and stationary vehicles and equipment as well as positioning vehicle up to aircraft
  • Engage in push-out of aircraft driving 80,000 lb. vehicle or assist by providing guide function to driver using depth perception in congested areas or speaking to cockpit during push-back procedure
  • Ability to understand and react to verbal commands and safety warnings, with and without, assistance of sight or visual aids
Minimum Requirements
  • High School Diploma, GED or international equivalent required
  • One-year experience in similar role preferred not required
  • Valid Driver's license (depending on station)
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be able to work weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) and holidays.
  • Ability to read, write and understand the English language
  • Ability to understand and react to verbal commands and safety warnings, with and without, assistance of sight or visual aids
Preferred Skills
  • Ability to work rotating shifts including weekends (i.e., Friday, Saturday and Sunday), holidays, and days off.
  • Ability to judge distances.
  • Ability to successfully communicate with others.
  • 1 year forklift experience
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work non temperature controlled environment both indoors and outdoors in a variety of temperatures including but not limited to hot and cold weather (rain, wind, heat, cold, etc.)
  • Ability to stand for an entire shift and move long distances across our facilities
Perks & Benefits
  • Want your pay in advance?  Access your pay when you need it through DailyPay app!
  • Are you a top performer who thrives on recognition?  On the spot awards offered through the Awardco Platform including gift cards and more!
  • Need quality medical care?   Multiple options for both full and part-time employees!
  • Want WFS Employee Extras? Travel Discounts, Pet insurance, Discount Shopping & More!
  • Looking to stay healthy and improve your life?  Wellness Programs offered to all employees!
  • Want to invest in your future?  401k program offered!
  • Looking to grow and have a career with us?  Opportunity for Internal Mobility and transfers available!

WFS is an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity and inclusion. We accept applications from all qualified individuals.


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