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Aircraft Handler Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lufthansa

Warehouse Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $18.25/hr

Tasks The Warehouse Handler role, involves the following activities, among others: * Physical ... passenger aircraft operated by the Lufthansa Group and an extensive road feeder service network.

Atlas Air

Station Representative

Chicago, IL · On-site

Supervise aircraft and loading crews. * Ensure that the station-marshalling plan is followed by vendors and ground handlers, as required. * Replace and/or revise aircraft manuals and Jeppesens, if ...

IGC Inc.

T5 Tower Staff

Chicago, IL · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Coordinators are responsible for managing aircraft movements within the non-movement area ... Collaborate with IGC team, FAA, airport duty managers, ground handlers, and airline OCCs to ensure ...

IGC Inc.

T5 Tower Staff

Chicago, IL

$24 - $30/hr

Coordinators are responsible for managing aircraft movements within the non-movement area ... Collaborate with IGC team, FAA, airport duty managers, ground handlers, and airline OCCs to ensure ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Forest Park, IL

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Cary, IL

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Carpentersville, IL

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Naperville, IL

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Chesterton, IN

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Glenview, IL

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Palos Hills, IL

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Lockport, IL

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Cicero, IL

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Hickory Hills, IL

$18 - $22.75/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Rockdale, IL

$17 - $21.50/hr

S. and overseas, aboard aircraft carriers and other ships, and with expeditionary security units ... Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader, Corrections Specialist ...

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Aircraft Handler information

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How much do aircraft handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft handler in Chicago, IL is $18.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft handler?

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.

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 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.

How much does an aircraft handler make?

Aircraft handlers typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They are responsible for moving and servicing aircraft on the ground, often working in airport or military environments, and may require safety certifications and physical stamina.

How to get a job as an aircraft handler?

To become an aircraft handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in aviation or logistics, and sometimes certification in safety procedures. Employers often require physical fitness, attention to detail, and knowledge of aircraft handling equipment; on-the-job training is common. Applying through airline or airport job portals and demonstrating safety awareness can improve chances of employment.

What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Handler jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Aircraft Handler jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aircraft Handler jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Aircraft Handler jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Aircraft Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Handler job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,531 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Warehouse Handler

Lufthansa

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17.25 - $18.25/hr

Other

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Are you detail oriented and committed to handling operations according to the highest standards? Be part of a role that keeps operations running smoothly while delivering safe, efficient, and compliant warehouse operations
This is your opportunity! apply now!
Tasks
The Warehouse Handler role, involves the following activities, among others:

  • Physical acceptance of airmail
  • Storage of cargo & other materials
  • Physical Breakdown
  • Reporting of irregularities (missing, damages, ...) and non-declared DGR
  • Works according to documented CHM and GOM procedures
  • Observes and applies the security requirements of LCAG and local authorities
  • General housekeeping in warehouse
* Perform all other duties assigned or delegated by supervisors
Requirements
Are you ready to Take-off with us? Know more about the requirements:
  • High school diploma/GED required
  • Prior professional experience is not required
  • Fluent English required, with strong reading, writing, and comprehension skills
  • Industry knowledge desirable
  • Basic knowledge in Word, Excel and Outlook
  • Manage constant time pressure
  • Manage high stress levels
  • Lift up to 70 lbs
  • Outdoor weather conditions
  • Noise pollution
  • Must possess a legal work permit in the U.S.
  • Must be willing to work shifts

* CV/Resume required
* Company will not provide relocation assistance
About Lufthansa Cargo AG Lufthansa Cargo Aktiengesellschaft, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, is a subsidiary of Deutsche Lufthansa Aktiengesellschaft. Lufthansa Cargo ranks among the world's leading air freight carriers and currently employs about 4,150 people worldwide. Lufthansa Cargo focuses on the airport-to-airport business. The cargo carrier serves around 300 destinations in more than 100 countries with its own fleet of freighters, the belly capacities of passenger aircraft operated by the Lufthansa Group and an extensive road feeder service network. The bulk of the cargo volume is routed through Frankfurt Airport.

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