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Aircraft Load Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Load Planner

Lihue, HI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This critical role plays a significant part in maintaining aircraft performance, weight limitations, and compliance with safety regulations. The Load Planner collaborates closely with flight crews ...

$65 - $90/hr

Load Planner - Miami International Airport (MIACG3) Job Category : Airport Operations Requisition ... Develop and implement effective load plans for aircraft, ensuring optimal balance and weight ...

Ensures that all cargo and baggage is safely loaded onto the aircraft in the most efficient manner ... Load Planner/Weight and Balance Certification * TSA - Cargo Security Awareness * TSA - Acceptance ...

Junior Mission Planner

Indian Springs, NV · On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

This exciting opportunity will develop, prepare and certify mission plans for routine test, peacetime and wartime operations, training (aircraft and simulator), exercise, and routine planning ...

Cargo Supervisor

Queens, NY · On-site

$27.50/hr

Monitor implementation of site-specific operational and security procedures. * Assist with aircraft load planning and weight and balance processes as required. * Communicate effectively with ...

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Aircraft Load Planner information

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$45.5K

$88.1K

$144.5K

How much do aircraft load planner jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft load planner in the United States is $88,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft load planner?

An Aircraft Load Planner is responsible for organizing and distributing cargo, baggage, and fuel on an aircraft to ensure safe and efficient weight balance. They calculate weight limits, coordinate with ground crews, and follow airline and aviation regulations to optimize aircraft performance. Their role is crucial in maintaining flight safety, fuel efficiency, and compliance with operational guidelines.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an aircraft load planner?

As an Aircraft Load Planner, your daily tasks include reviewing cargo and passenger manifests, calculating weight and balance distribution, and preparing precise load sheets. You’ll coordinate closely with ground handlers, flight crews, and cargo personnel to ensure proper loading procedures and adherence to safety regulations. This role often requires real-time problem-solving and quick decision-making when schedules or load requirements change. The work is fast-paced and detail-driven, making accuracy and communication essential to every shift.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the aircraft load planner position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Load Planner, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of weight and balance principles, often backed by training in aviation or logistics. Experience with load planning software, such as SABLE, CargoSpot, or airline-specific systems, and possibly IATA certification, is typically required. Strong communication, organizational skills, and the ability to work under pressure help set top candidates apart. These abilities ensure safe, efficient aircraft loading, regulatory compliance, and smooth coordination with ground crews and flight operations.

How to become an airline load planner?

To become an airline load planner, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles preferring post-secondary education in logistics, aviation, or related fields. Relevant skills include knowledge of weight and balance calculations, familiarity with airline management systems, and strong organizational abilities; certifications in aviation or logistics can enhance prospects. Gaining experience through entry-level positions in cargo or airline operations can also be beneficial.

What cities are hiring for Aircraft Load Planner jobs?

Cities with the most Aircraft Load Planner job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Aircraft Load Planner jobs?

The most popular types of Aircraft Load Planner jobs are:

What states have the most Aircraft Load Planner jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aircraft Load Planner jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Aircraft Load Planner jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Aircraft Load Planner jobs are:

Infographic showing various Aircraft Load Planner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,077 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Trego-Dugan Aviation rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 67 rated aviation services


Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

This is a critical safety role at the heart of our cargo operations. This dual-function position is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient movement of cargo through the network. The GSC/Load Planner serves as the station’s primary Ground Security Coordinator, maintaining compliance with TSA regulations, operator security programs, and applicable security directives. In addition, the role performs aircraft load planning functions to ensure proper weight distribution, balance, and cargo securement for all assigned flights.

The role requires an individual who can seamlessly transition between security oversight and operational load planning duties, maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance in both domains.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ground Security Coordinator (GSC) Functions

  • Perform security oversight duties, including inspecting aircraft access points, verifying cargo loading integrity, and ensuring compliance with the operator’s security program and TSA regulations.

  • Coordinate security efforts with ground personnel, flight crews, law enforcement, and TSA representatives; serve as the primary security liaison at the station level.

  • Monitor cargo handling and loading operations to ensure adherence to safety protocols, ULD securement procedures, and standard operating practices.

Load Planning / Weight & Balance Functions

  • Develop and implement load plans for aircraft to ensure optimal weight distribution, balance, and compliance with regulatory and air carrier standards.

  • Prepare and enter loading instructions, manifests, and load sheets into operational software systems.

  • Collaborate with ground operations, flight crews, warehouse teams, and other departments to communicate load plans and coordinate activities.

  • Ensure accurate record-keeping of cargo loads and file all post-departure paperwork in compliance with air carrier policies and regulations.

  • Utilize aircraft load planning software and tools to generate loading diagrams, reports, and documentation.

General / Administrative Functions

  • Prepare reports and presentations using Microsoft Word, Excel, and other operational tools.

  • Prepare and coordinate information for internal use and distribution across departments.

  • Stay updated on industry regulations, security bulletins, and best practices related to aircraft loading, weight management, and cargo security.

  • Complete all required training.

  • Only complete tasks for which you are fully trained.

  • Report any safety hazard or incident immediately.

  • Perform additional duties as assigned by station management to support safe and efficient cargo operations.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS:Required:
  • High school diploma, GED, or international equivalent.

  • Load Planner / Weight and Balance Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).

  • TSA Cargo Security Awareness training (or ability to obtain prior to performing security duties).

  • TSA Acceptance training (or ability to obtain prior to performing security duties).

  • Previous experience in aircraft load planning, cargo operations, ground security coordination, or a related aviation field.

  • Proficiency in using load planning software, weight and balance tools, and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

  • Effective oral and written communication, problem-solving, basic research, and time management skills.

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain an airport security badge and a customs seal as required by the station or gateway.

Preferred:
  • Existing GSC/PSA/LP certification with ATI (Air Transport International) or ABX Air.

  • Knowledge of aviation regulations, weight and balance principles, and ULD handling/securement procedures.

  • Experience with cargo management systems and electronic load planning platforms.

  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks efficiently.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The position requires working in both office and field environments, including on the tarmac during loading and unloading operations, and cargo warehouses.

  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, aircraft noise, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) operations is routine.

  • High attention to detail and the ability to maintain focus in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment are essential.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs regularly.

  • Must be able to stand for extended periods during shifts.

  • Must be able to work in confined spaces as needed.

KEY COMPETENCIES:
  • Attention to Detail — Ensures accuracy in load plans, manifests, and security documentation where errors can have serious safety consequences.

  • Safety Mindset — Consistently prioritizes safety in all decisions, from cargo securement to security compliance and aircraft loading.


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