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Aircraft Loader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Tyonek Native Corporation

$27.25 - $35.75/hr

The Aircraft Structures Mechanic III serves as a senior aircraft structural repair and modification ... load support, and other flight test activities. * Other duties as assigned. Education/Experience ...

United Ground Express

(RIC) Part-Time Ramp Agent

Richmond, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

May require lifting over 100 items for a single aircraft * Push/pull loaded and empty carts during loading/unloading operations * Ascend/descend jet-way stairs while carrying baggage * Bend/stoop and ...

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Aircraft Loader information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do aircraft loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft loader in Virginia is $19.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Aircraft Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and an understanding of safety protocols, often accompanied by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ground handling equipment, basic computer systems for inventory tracking, and certifications such as OSHA or airport operations training are valuable. Effective teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to follow instructions rigorously are key soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure safe, timely, and accurate loading and unloading of aircraft while maintaining operational efficiency and safety standards.

How to become an aircraft loader?

To become an aircraft loader, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. On-the-job training is usually provided, and physical strength and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important. Some employers may require safety certifications or familiarity with loading equipment and procedures.

What is an aircraft loader?

An Aircraft Loader is responsible for loading and unloading cargo, baggage, and freight onto aircraft safely and efficiently. They ensure weight distribution is balanced and follow strict safety regulations to prevent damage and delays. Aircraft Loaders often use equipment like conveyor belts, forklifts, and baggage carts. Their role is crucial in ensuring timely departures and efficient ground operations at airports.

What does an aircraft loader do?

A typical shift for an Aircraft Loader involves physically handling cargo, luggage, and freight on the tarmac—often in varying weather conditions—and ensuring they are securely loaded onto or unloaded from the aircraft. You'll work closely with ramp agents, supervisors, and flight crews to coordinate timing and meet tight departure schedules. Shifts can be scheduled early in the morning or late at night due to the busy, round-the-clock nature of airports. Teamwork and clear communication are essential throughout each shift to maintain safety and efficiency. You’ll also be expected to follow strict security and operational guidelines each day.

How much do aircraft loaders make?

Aircraft loaders typically earn an average hourly wage between $12 and $20, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many positions offer shift differentials and require physical stamina and safety training. Annual salaries generally range from $25,000 to $40,000 for full-time roles.
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What cities in Virginia are hiring for Aircraft Loader jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Aircraft Loader job openings:
Aircraft Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Loader job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,834 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Aircraft Loads & Dynamics Engineer - 078QE

Quartus Engineering

Herndon, VA • On-site, Remote

$142K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Quartus
Quartus Engineering Incorporated (www.quartus.com) is a leading provider of engineering services and integrated hardware solutions for a wide range of clients and industries. We employ advanced computer-aided engineering tools in the areas of optics, structural, thermal, and coupled analyses. We couple our engineering analysis capabilities with design, prototype, integration and test capabilities to create solutions for our clients that are of extraordinary value.
What will you do?
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Aircraft Loads and Dynamics Engineer to join our team. As a Lead Engineer, you will play a critical role in evaluating, analyzing, and optimizing the loads and dynamic behavior of aircraft structures and systems. This position requires an individual with an advanced understanding of structural loads, aeroelasticity, dynamic response, and certification processes for both fixed-wing and/or rotary-wing aircraft. The candidate should have at least 10 years of industry experience in the aerospace sector, with demonstrated expertise in loads and dynamics analysis and compliance with applicable regulations (e.g., FAR/CS Part 23, 25, 27, or 29). Additionally, experience in sustained engine imbalance analysis and requirements development is a plus.
Essential Job Functions:
Aircraft Loads Analysis:
  • Perform static and dynamic loads analysis for various flight and ground conditions, including gust, turbulence, landing, taxiing, takeoff, and emergency maneuvers.
  • Develop load cases in compliance with certification requirements and design criteria.
  • Support the development of aerodynamic databases and load envelopes in coordination with the aerodynamics group.

Aeroelasticity and Flutter:
  • Conduct aeroelastic analyses, including flutter, divergence, and control reversal studies, to ensure structural stability (FAR 25.629).
  • Mitigate risks related to structural resonance, fatigue, and dynamic instabilities.

Sustained Engine Imbalance Analysis:
  • Perform analysis to evaluate the effects of sustained engine imbalance (e.g., rotor unbalance or blade loss) on aircraft structural loads and dynamic response, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., CFR 25.901(c), 25.903(c), AC 25-24).

Certification and Documentation:
  • Prepare technical reports, substantiation documents, and compliance data packages for regulatory authorities (e.g., FAA, EASA).
  • Ensure compliance with applicable airworthiness standards (e.g., CFR/CS Part 23, 25, 27, 29).
  • Collaborate with regulatory agencies and certification specialists as needed.

Collaboration:
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and team members.
  • Work directly with Quartus's business development/sales organization to expand and diversify our air vehicle customer base.

Location
Position will be based in Herndon, VA, or San Diego, CA, with a hybrid schedule.*
*The hybrid work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs including but not limited to training, performance, or other operational requirements. Any physical location change may impact future employment.
What are we looking for?
• BS and/or MS in Mechanical, Aerospace, Structural, or similar Engineering field
• 10+ years of experience in aircraft/rotorcraft static loads and criteria
• Experience with static and dynamic load derivation for aircraft
• Experience developing aeroelastic analysis models
• Experience or expertise in MSC NASTRAN, ZAERO, or similar tool is required
• Experience or expertise in coding with MATLAB and/or Python
• Familiarity with Patran, FEMAP, RCAS, Adams, or comparable tools
• Experience with ground vibration and/or static load tests
• Experience with Special Class Airworthiness (Part 21)
• Must be a US Person (US Citizen or US Permanent Resident)
Preferred Qualifications:
• Knowledge and experience with CFD analysis
• Experience working with Structures FAA DERs a plus
• Knowledge or experience with Aeroservoelastic analyses
Compensation and Benefits
Lead Engineer pay range:$142,245 - $235,409*
*This pay range represents base pay. In addition, you may be eligible for additional benefits and compensation.
Referral eligibility: Tier 1
Quartus is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to employing a diverse workforce, including, but not limited to, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Quartus provides comprehensive benefits including competitive salary, discretionary performance-based bonus, employee stock ownership plan, medical, dental, vision, and 401k plan with company match.

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