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Airlines Ramp Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Atlantic Aviation

LS - Ramp Agent

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... Agent. Corporate aviation continues to be a viable means of travel for many who do not like the ... airlines and many corporations are now leasing or purchasing their own private aircraft. Our Ramp ...

Atlantic Aviation

LS - Ramp Agent Job

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

... Agent. Corporate aviation continues to be a viable means of travel for many who do not like the ... airlines and many corporations are now leasing or purchasing their own private aircraft. Our Ramp ...

Gategroup

Ramp Agent $23.65

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23.65/hr

Gate Service Driver is responsible for driving a specialized catering vehicle on the airport ramp to provide catering services to airline customers in a timely manner. TheDriver mustfollow all safety ...

Unifi

Prospect Cargo Agent (AA) - ORD

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... our airline partners and the traveling public every day. We are seeking individuals to join our ... May also perform ramp agent duties as needed. * Adhere to all safety procedures and policies.

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Airlines Ramp Agent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$16

$21

How much do airlines ramp agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for airlines ramp agent in Chicago, IL is $16.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airlines ramp agent?

Airlines Ramp Agents are ground support personnel responsible for handling baggage, guiding aircraft to and from gates, operating ground service equipment, and ensuring the safe and efficient turnaround of airplanes at airports. They play a crucial role in loading and unloading luggage, cargo, and mail, as well as marshaling aircraft and maintaining safety on the ramp. Ramp agents often work outdoors in all types of weather and must adhere to strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and delays.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airlines ramp agent, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airlines Ramp Agent, you need physical stamina, basic mechanical skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ground service equipment, baggage handling systems, and safety protocols is essential, and some positions may require a valid driver's license or special airport certifications. Strong teamwork, communication, and time management skills help agents work efficiently under pressure and maintain flight schedules. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, timely, and accurate aircraft operations and passenger service.

What are some common challenges airlines ramp agents face during their shifts, and how are they addressed?

Airlines Ramp Agents often work in fast-paced, outdoor environments where they manage time-sensitive tasks like loading luggage, guiding aircraft, and operating ground equipment. Common challenges include working in varying weather conditions, coordinating with multiple team members, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. To address these, airlines provide thorough safety training, clear communication tools, and strong team structures to support efficient collaboration. Staying adaptable and maintaining attention to detail are key to overcoming daily obstacles and ensuring smooth operations.

What is the difference between Airlines Ramp Agent vs Airlines Baggage Handler?

AspectAirlines Ramp AgentAirlines Baggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety and handling training
Work EnvironmentAirports, tarmac, aircraft loading areasAirports, baggage claim areas, tarmac
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, ground service providersAirlines, ground service providers
Job FocusLoading/unloading cargo and luggage, aircraft servicingHandling, loading, and unloading passenger baggage

Both roles are essential in airport ground operations and often overlap in work environment and employer. While Airlines Ramp Agents focus on aircraft servicing and cargo handling, Airlines Baggage Handlers specialize in managing passenger luggage. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and interests.

Do airlines ramp agents make good money?

Airlines ramp agents typically earn an hourly wage that is around the national average for similar roles, with starting pay often between $12 and $20 per hour. Overtime, shift differentials, and experience can increase earnings, and some positions offer benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. Overall, the salary is considered moderate and varies by location and airline.

How to become an airline ramp agent?

To become an airline ramp agent, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check and drug screening. Prior experience with customer service or operating equipment like forklifts can be helpful, and some employers require certification in safety procedures or equipment operation. Physical stamina and the ability to work in outdoor environments and irregular hours are also important.

Is it hard to get hired as an Airlines Ramp Agent?

Getting hired as an Airlines Ramp Agent can be competitive, as many airports and airlines seek candidates with physical stamina, attention to safety procedures, and good communication skills. Prior experience or certifications such as OSHA training can improve chances, but entry-level positions are often available for those willing to meet physical and background requirements.

Which airlines pay airlines ramp agents the best?

Pay rates for airline ramp agents vary by airline, location, and experience, but major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United tend to offer higher wages and better benefits compared to regional carriers. Factors like union representation and seniority can also influence pay levels for ramp agents across different airlines.

What are popular job titles related to Airlines Ramp Agent jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Airlines Ramp Agent jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Airlines Ramp Agent jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Airlines Ramp Agent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Airlines Ramp Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airlines Ramp Agent job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,718 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Cargo Ramp Agent

Chicago, IL

Alliance Ground International, LLC
Transportation and Warehousing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Alliance Ground International, LLCexternal

$16 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Alliance Ground International rating

4.8

Company rating: 4.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 68 rated aviation services

Job description

Job Description:

Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced, safety-obsessed aviation environment? Are you a team player that others can rely on? Then let your career take off with AGI as a Cargo Ramp Agent!

AGI is an aviation services company operating in more than 50 cities across North America. We employ over 3,000 people servicing nearly 200 airline customers every day! Our aviation roots span 45 years and our strong reputation in ground services and hospitality are the foundation of our success. We are committed to providing the highest level of quality service and continuing our track record of outstanding safety. As we continue to grow, we are looking for only the best in the industry.

Roles and responsibilities:

  • Greet customers as they drop off and pick up cargo and assist them with completion of shipping documentation
  • Sort, load/unload, and transport cargo and US Mail; operate a forklift and pallet jack as required
  • Ensure airway bill data is entered accurately and perform security screening of cargo prior to transport
  • Remove Foreign Object Debris (FOD) from in and around the cargo warehouse
  • Be on time, be prepared, and be safe

Physical Qualifications:

  • Be able to travel to complete up to 3 weeks of paid training
  • Be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma, GED or work experience equivalent
  • Possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record
  • Be able to pass a drug screen and obtain airport security clearance, which includes a 10-year extensive employment, criminal record and residence background check

As an AGI Cargo Acceptance Agent you must be able to:

  • Lift up to 50 pounds (23 kg) unassisted
  • Bend, kneel, and stoop on a frequent basis
  • Work outside in all types of weather, around jet and machinery noises.

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

19.75

Alliance Ground International is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. AGI is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or veteran status.

What Alliance Ground International employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Alliance Ground International

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Alliance Ground International provides airline cargo handling services to 55 airlines at thirteen airports: Atlanta, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Kansas City, LaGuardia, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York JFK, Orlando, Salt Lake City and San Francisco. Warehouse and ramp operations schedules are constantly adjusted to flight operations. Adjustments are made monthly, weekly, and in many cases, hourly. Facilities and equipment, forklifts dock lifts and roller systems, are purchased assets of and are routinely maintained more frequently than manufacturer recommendations to insure the life and optimal working performance of all equipment. Maintaining an “open door” policy with our airline clients is essential to our successful working relationships. Drawing from the unique interchange of information through individualized solutions with our clients allows us to incorporate these ideas within the structure of the operation.

Industry

Transportation and warehousing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South Miami, FL, US

Year founded

1987

Social media

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