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Airport Cargo Handling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SIMOS

Airport Cargo Forklift Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $23/hr

Safely operate forklifts and other cargo handling equipment. * Load and unload air cargo from ... Follow airport and TSA safety/security protocols. * Work efficiently in tight and fast-paced ...

Simos

Airport Cargo Forklift Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $23/hr

Safely operate forklifts and other cargo handling equipment. * Load and unload air cargo from ... Follow airport and TSA safety/security protocols. * Work efficiently in tight and fast-paced ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Flowood, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

GAT Airline Ground Support

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

GAT Airline Ground Support

Airport Cargo Agent

Greer, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

GAT Airline Ground Support

Airport Cargo Agent

Flowood, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Assure proper handling and delivery of cargo and operation of related equipment * Follow Dangerous Goods Requirements and Regulations * Comply with GAT Airline Ground Support's Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Flowood, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Organize warehouse and storage facilities; arrange warehouse handling equipment and load/unload air cargo. Maintain the required safety and quality standards as well as comply with Standard Operating ...

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All JobsAirport Cargo Handling Jobs

Airport Cargo Handling information

See salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do airport cargo handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport cargo handling in the United States is $19.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is airport cargo handling?

Airport cargo handling refers to the processes involved in loading, unloading, storing, and transporting goods and freight at an airport. Cargo handlers are responsible for ensuring that shipments are safely and efficiently moved between aircraft and ground transportation, following strict safety and security protocols. This work includes checking documentation, using specialized equipment, and coordinating with airlines, customs, and freight companies to ensure timely delivery and compliance with regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airport cargo handler?

To thrive as an Airport Cargo Handler, you need physical fitness, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cargo handling equipment, barcode scanning systems, and safety protocols is typical, and certifications such as forklift operation may be required. Strong teamwork, time management, and communication skills help ensure efficient, safe, and accurate cargo processing. These skills and qualities are critical for maintaining smooth airport operations, meeting tight schedules, and ensuring cargo security and safety.

What are some common challenges faced in airport cargo handling roles, and how can they be managed effectively?

Airport cargo handling professionals often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, fluctuating workloads, and strict safety and security protocols. Managing these requires strong teamwork, adaptability, and attention to detail, as cargo volumes can change rapidly with flight schedules and customer demands. Effective communication with colleagues and other airport departments is crucial for ensuring smooth coordination and minimizing errors. Ongoing training and adhering to established procedures also help maintain safety and efficiency in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Airport Cargo Handling vs Airport Ramp Agent?

AspectAirport Cargo HandlingAirport Ramp Agent
Primary RoleManaging cargo logistics, loading, unloading, and documentationHandling aircraft servicing, baggage loading, and aircraft movement
CertificationsTypically requires safety and handling certificationsRequires safety and equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentCargo warehouses, loading docks, aircraft cargo holdsAircraft tarmacs, airport apron, aircraft exterior
Industry UsageAirlines, freight companies, cargo handlersAirlines, ground service providers

While both roles operate within the airport environment, Airport Cargo Handling focuses on managing cargo logistics and documentation, whereas Airport Ramp Agents handle aircraft servicing and baggage operations. Both roles require safety certifications and work outdoors or in cargo areas, but their specific duties and work settings differ.

What qualifications do you need to work at an airport cargo handling?

To work in airport cargo handling, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass background checks. Physical fitness is important, as the job involves lifting and moving heavy items, and some positions may require certification in safety procedures or operating equipment like forklifts.

What cities are hiring for Airport Cargo Handling jobs?

Cities with the most Airport Cargo Handling job openings:

What states have the most Airport Cargo Handling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Airport Cargo Handling jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Airport Cargo Handling jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Airport Cargo Handling jobs are:

Airport Cargo Handling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airport Cargo Handling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,176 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Airport Cargo Forklift Operator

SIMOS

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.75 - $23/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description
We are seeking reliable and experienced Airport Cargo Forklift Operators to join our team! This position involves operating a forklift to load and unload air cargo containers and pallets, move freight safely across the warehouse and ramp areas, and support cargo operations in a fast-paced airport environment. Join our team and enjoy weekly pay, paid training, health benefits, and opportunities for advancement. Apply today and start your career in air cargo logistics!
  • 1st Shift: 6 am - 2:30 pm
  • 2nd Shift: 2:00 pm - 10:30 pm
  • 3rd Shift: 10 pm - 6:30 am
Shift schedules are subject to change. This is a 24/7 operation, and Associates must be available to work weekends and holidays.
Perks & Benefits
  • Casual Dress Code
  • Other on the spot perks
  • Paid Training
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Direct Deposit or Cash Card pay options
  • Medical / Dental Insurance
  • STD /LTD
  • Paid Time Off
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • $19.75 - $23.00 / Hour
Employment Type & Shifts
  • Full Time
  • All Shifts
  • 1st Shift
  • 2nd Shift
  • 3rd Shift

Job Responsibilities
The duties of this position include, but are not limited to: equipment inspections, safe forklift operation on the warehouse floor and ramp areas, loading/unloading ULDs (Unit Load Devices) and cargo pallets from aircraft and trucks, staging freight, verifying cargo tags, and assisting with inventory and documentation.
  • Safely operate forklifts and other cargo handling equipment.
  • Load and unload air cargo from aircraft, trucks, and containers
  • Verify and document cargo information to ensure accuracy.
  • Follow airport and TSA safety/security protocols.
  • Work efficiently in tight and fast-paced environments.
  • Support team members to meet flight schedules and customer demands
Requirements for this role include:
  • Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) check and fingerprinting
  • ICE background check
  • Previous forklift experience is recommended.
  • Show proof of eligibility to work in the US. A valid driver's license or State ID is required for these positions.
  • All attendance policies must be adhered to for the duration of employment.
  • This is a 24/7 operation, and working weekends and holidays is required
Associate Requirements
  • HS Diploma or GED
  • Background Check
  • Able to Lift 60 pounds
  • Drug Test
  • Stand for Shift Duration
  • Must be at least 18 years old

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