ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aircraft Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atlantic Aviation

Cargo Handler - Full Time

Wheeling, IL · On-site

$19.50 - $20/hr

Deliver and receive fuel to and from company tanks, vendor trucks, and aircraft. * Operate all ... Required Skills Cargo Handler Qualifications * High school diploma or GED certificate * 18 years of ...

Atlantic Aviation

Cargo Handler - Seasonal

Ketchikan, AK · On-site

$21.50/hr

Deliver and receive fuel to and from company tanks, vendor trucks, and aircraft. * Operate all ... Required Skills Cargo Handler Qualifications * High school diploma or GED certificate * 18 years of ...

Atlantic Aviation

HI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Deliver and receive fuel to and from company tanks, vendor trucks, and aircraft. * Operate all ... Required Skills Cargo Handler Qualifications * High school diploma or GED certificate * 18 years of ...

Maytag Aircraft

... FDSO), Aircraft Refuler The Fuel Distribution System Operator (FDSO) will operate Maytag ... handler per applicable Federal, State, and local requirements Able to obtain and maintain a ...

Aerotek

Material Handler Aviation

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Material Handler This role involves performing general labor in a fast-paced warehouse environment ... You will handle high-value aircraft parts, manage inventory, and process inbound and outbound ...

Jet Midwest

Material Handler

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

... as aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services to the aviation industry. Position ... Title: Material Handler Status: Full Time Department: Material Operations Summary: The Material ...

Jet Midwest

Material Handler

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$15 - $18.25/hr

... as aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services to the aviation industry. Position ... Title: Material Handler Status: Full Time Department: Material Operations Summary: The Material ...

AGI

Material Handler

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operate basic cargo handling equipment such as forklift, aircraft pallets and pallet jacks * Break ... Material Handlers must be able to communicate information and instructions verbally and/or via ...

Alliance Ground International, LLC.

Material Handler

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Operate basic cargo handling equipment such as forklift, aircraft pallets and pallet jacks * Break ... Material Handlers must be able to communicate information and instructions verbally and/or via ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAircraft Handler Jobs

Aircraft Handler information

See salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do aircraft handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does ABH do in the navy?

In the navy, ABH stands for Aircraft Handling Specialist, a role responsible for the safe movement, storage, and maintenance of aircraft on the ship or base. They operate equipment such as aircraft elevators and tugs, and ensure aircraft are properly secured and ready for flight operations.

What is the difference between Aircraft Handler vs Cargo Loader?

AspectAircraft HandlerCargo Loader
CertificationsTypically requires safety and handling certificationsRequires safety and cargo handling certifications
Work EnvironmentAirports, aircraft tarmac, hangarsAirports, cargo terminals, aircraft cargo holds
Employer & IndustryAirlines, ground service providersFreight companies, airlines, ground handling services
Job FocusHandling aircraft, ensuring safety during aircraft movementLoading/unloading cargo, securing freight

Both Aircraft Handlers and Cargo Loaders work in airport environments and require safety certifications. While Aircraft Handlers focus on managing aircraft movement and safety, Cargo Loaders specialize in handling freight. These roles often overlap in airport ground operations but have distinct responsibilities related to aircraft safety versus cargo management.

What is the highest paying aircraft job?

The highest paying aircraft jobs are typically senior roles such as aircraft maintenance managers, airline captains, or specialized aerospace engineers, with airline captains often earning the most due to their experience and responsibility. These positions usually require extensive experience, certifications, and sometimes advanced degrees, and they often involve working in commercial or private aviation environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Aircraft Handlers during daily operations?

Aircraft Handlers often face challenges such as working in all weather conditions, managing tight schedules, and coordinating safely with multiple teams on the tarmac. Attention to detail is crucial, as small errors can have significant safety implications. Handlers must also adapt quickly to changing flight plans or unexpected maintenance needs while ensuring compliance with strict safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aircraft Handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Handler, you need knowledge of aircraft operations, ground handling procedures, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant training or certifications like an Airside Safety or Ramp Agent certificate. Familiarity with ground support equipment, radio communication systems, and safety management systems (SMS) is typically required. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring safe, efficient aircraft movements and maintaining operational safety on the airfield.

What does an Aircraft Handler do?

An Aircraft Handler is responsible for guiding, parking, and moving aircraft on the ground, often using specialized equipment like tugs and chocks. They perform safety checks, assist with aircraft servicing, and ensure proper positioning for loading, unloading, and maintenance. The role requires knowledge of safety procedures, communication skills, and sometimes certifications such as ground handling or safety training.

How much do aircraft handlers make?

Aircraft handlers typically earn an average salary ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work in airport or airline environments, requiring safety training and sometimes certifications.

What are Aircraft Handlers?

Aircraft Handlers are professionals responsible for the safe movement, positioning, and securing of aircraft on the ground at airports or military bases. Their duties include guiding aircraft during taxiing, marshalling planes to and from gates or hangars, and ensuring that all ground handling procedures are followed to prevent accidents or damage. They often work closely with pilots, ground crew, and air traffic control to ensure efficient and safe operations. This role is crucial for maintaining the flow of air traffic and upholding strict safety standards in aviation environments.
More about Aircraft Handler jobs
What cities are hiring for Aircraft Handler jobs? Cities with the most Aircraft Handler job openings:
What states have the most Aircraft Handler jobs? States with the most job openings for Aircraft Handler jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aircraft Handler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aircraft Handler jobs are:
Aircraft Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Handler job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.
Aircraft Security / Baggage Handler - SFO Airport

Aircraft Security / Baggage Handler - SFO Airport

PrimeFlight Aviation Services

San Francisco, CA

$22.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Schedule: Full-time, open availability needed
Wage: The current wage of $22.04/hr will increase starting July 1st. An additional raise will follow after 90 days

100% employer paid benefits (employee + family)

INTRODUCTION

Interested in working in aviation? Are you looking for a job with stability and growth opportunities? If you are looking for a career with growth potential and work well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, we want to speak to you!

Perks of the job:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Growth potential

*Part-time benefits could vary

WHY WORK FOR PRIMEFLIGHT?

  • We are committed to being a leading provider of commercial services within the aviation industry
  • Our teams focus on maintaining a positive working environment and treating all team members with respect
  • With more than 200 locations across the world, we offer opportunities for career progression
  • Enjoy a competitive pay scale

ABOUT US

  • We perform a wide range of airport support services globally on behalf of commercial airlines. Join us for a rewarding career in the aviation industry!

Job Description

This role handles varying responsibilities as Aircraft Security Agent and Baggage Handler.  In the role of Aircraft Security, you will guard secured areas of the airport, which includes entrances to aircraft. Inquiry to suspicious individuals and detailed observation is required.  As our Baggage Handler, your primary responsibility will be to ensure the timely, efficient, and safe handling of passenger luggage from check-in to aircraft loading and vice versa. You will be involved in loading and unloading baggage from conveyor belts and aircraft, ensuring that luggage is handled with care and sorted accurately according to flight destinations.

 

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK AS A AIRCRAFT SECURITY AGENT AND BAGGAGE HANDLER

  •  Guard the jet bridge to the aircraft ensuring no unauthorized entrance
  •  Abide by all airport and security rules and regulations in challenging suspicious individuals and those not wearing an unescorted SIDA identification badge
  • Load and unload passenger luggage
  • Operate baggage handling equipment such as conveyor belts and trolleys 
  • Sort and route baggage to the correct flight and carousel 
  • Ensure timely delivery of baggage to and from aircraft 
  • Complete any incident reports with accuracy
  • You have a great attention to detail
  • You enjoy working with a team or individually to accomplish your tasks
  • Physical activity may include:
    • Stand and walk for extended periods of time
    • Ability to lift at least 70 pounds
    • Must bend, twist, stoop and reach 
    • Must stand and walk for long periods of time 
    • Be able to hear and respond to the spoken voice and to audible alarms generated by terminal environment
    • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but may become high at various times. Employee must be willing to wear/utilize company-supplied personal protective equipment (hearing protection) to mitigate their noise exposure

Qualifications

  • Minimum age of 18 years old
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Ability to lift 70 pounds or more 
  • Ability to work in an a physically demanding outdoor environment
  • Ability to read, write and communicate in the English language, this includes documents
  • Commitment to providing excellent customer service
  • Comfortable working with computers, mobile devices, and tablets
  • Ability to pass a drug screen
  • Eligibility to acquire needed credentials and clearances (FAA, TSA, Port Authority, U.S. Customs and U.S. Postal- as applicable)

Airlines are 24/7, so we need our team members to be flexible to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays. The successful PrimeFlight Aviation Services team member brings their “A” game every day with energy and enthusiasm, respect for their team, and the highest regard for safety!

PrimeFlight Aviation Services, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees are considered and evaluated for positions at PrimeFlight Aviation Services, Inc. without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, uniform service member and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state/province, and local laws.

PrimeFlight Aviation Services logo

About PrimeFlight Aviation Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PrimeFlight Aviation Services, based in Sugar Land, TX, US, is a leading name in the aviation support industry. The company is particularly recognized for offering high-quality ground handling services, aircraft cleaning, de-icing, and wheelchair services. With a history rooted back in 1964, PrimeFlight has a strong reputation built upon consistently delivering unmatched aviation services. The company operates with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, integrity, and service excellence as its defining core values. Its mission is to provide solutions that drive customer value and operational efficiency, delivering to clients, an impressive service level that redefines the industry standards. Some of its notable achievements include being a preferred partner of some of the world's largest airlines and an exemplary safety record.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sugar Land, TX, US

Year founded

2001

Social media

Facebook

View All PrimeFlight Aviation Services Jobs

Apply