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Airport Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Loader

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$19.10/hr

Our Customer Service Center in Des Plaines, near O'Hare airport, is one of our flagship locations ... Loaders may also be required to unload trucks in the inbound docks. Other duties as assigned. Job ...

General information Job Title Airport Ramp Supervisor - PVD Date Wednesday, June 3, 2026 Entity ... Load, unload, sort and transfer passenger baggage, airmail, freight and company material in and out ...

General information Job Title Airport DL Below Wing Agent - EUG Date Wednesday, June 3, 2026 Entity ... Loads, unloads, services, guides, and directs customer aircraft. * Safeguards customers' baggage ...

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Airport Loader information

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$11

$19

$28

How much do airport loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for airport loader in the United States is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Airport Loaders during peak travel seasons?

During peak travel seasons, Airport Loaders often encounter increased workloads due to higher passenger volumes and more frequent flight departures. This can lead to tight timelines for loading and unloading luggage, increased physical demand, and the need to quickly adapt to schedule changes or last-minute gate assignments. Effective teamwork and clear communication with ramp agents, baggage handlers, and flight crews become even more crucial under these conditions. Staying organized and adhering to safety protocols helps manage these challenges efficiently while maintaining a smooth flow of airport operations.

What is the difference between Airport Loader vs Baggage Handler?

AspectAirport LoaderBaggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety training
Work EnvironmentAirports, cargo areas, loading zonesAirports, baggage claim areas, tarmac
Job DutiesLoading/unloading cargo containers and freightHandling, sorting, and transporting passenger baggage
Industry UsageAirlines, cargo carriers, freight companiesAirlines, airport ground services

Both Airport Loaders and Baggage Handlers work in airport environments and require safety training. While Airport Loaders focus on cargo and freight, Baggage Handlers primarily manage passenger luggage. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and interests.

What are Airport Loaders?

Airport Loaders, also known as baggage handlers or ramp agents, are responsible for loading and unloading luggage, cargo, and mail from aircraft. They ensure that items are properly stowed and secured, following safety regulations and specific instructions for each flight. Airport Loaders also operate various ground support equipment and may assist with aircraft marshaling or guiding planes on the tarmac. Their work is crucial for maintaining efficient airport operations and timely flight departures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Airport Loader, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airport Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, basic literacy, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with baggage handling systems, conveyor belts, and safety protocols is typically required, and training or certification in airport safety may be beneficial. Teamwork, time management, and the ability to work under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities help ensure efficient, safe, and accurate luggage handling, contributing to smooth airport operations and customer satisfaction.
What cities are hiring for Airport Loader jobs? Cities with the most Airport Loader job openings:
What states have the most Airport Loader jobs? States with the most job openings for Airport Loader jobs include:
Load Planner DOT- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL1)

Load Planner DOT- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL1)

PrimeFlight Aviation Services

Saint Louis, MO

$21.68/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

INTRODUCTION

Interested in working in aviation? Are you looking for a job with stability and growth opportunities? If you are looking for a career with growth potential and work well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, we want to speak to you!

Perks of the job:

· 401(k)

· 401(k) matching

· Dental insurance

· Health insurance

· Life insurance

· Vision insurance

· Paid time off

· Growth potential

*Part-time benefits could vary

WHY WORK FOR PRIMEFLIGHT?

· We are committed to being a leading provider of commercial services within the aviation industry

· Our teams focus on maintaining a positive working environment and treating all team members with respect

· With more than 200 locations across the world, we offer opportunities for career progression

· Enjoy a competitive pay scale

ABOUT US

· We perform a wide range of airport support services globally on behalf of commercial airlines. Join us for a rewarding career in the aviation industry!

Job Description

Our Load Planner-DOT is responsible for planning and coordinating the loading of cargo and baggage onto aircraft, ensuring optimal weight distribution and balance for safe and efficient flights. This role involves analyzing and calculating aircraft weight, collaborating with ground handling teams, and creating load plans that comply with airline and aviation regulations. You must work closely with various departments, including cargo, baggage handling, and flight operations, to synchronize loading activities with flight schedules. Additionally, you will maintain accurate records, respond to changes in cargo and operational needs, and contribute to continuous process improvement in load planning.

WHAT IT’S LIKE TO WORK AS A LOAD PLANNER-DOT

· You like working as a team, toward a common goal

· Develop and implement effective load plans for aircraft, ensuring optimal balance and weight distribution

· Coordinate with ground handlers and cargo agents to manage loading and unloading processes

· Utilize specialized software for creating and adjusting load plans according to flight specifications

· Ensure compliance with airline and regulatory guidelines for cargo and baggage weight and balance

· Ensure compliance with all DOT regulations and guidelines, including overseeing the safe and legal operation of airport vehicles, equipment, and personnel involved in airside and landside operations

· Conduct regular audits and inspections to verify adherence to DOT standards, including reviewing maintenance records, driver qualifications, and safety procedures, and provide training and updates to staff on changes in DOT regulations

· Monitor and adjust cargo placement to maximize space utilization and efficiency

· Communicate load plans and changes effectively to pilots, ground crew, and other relevant staff

· You have a great attention to detail

· You enjoy working with a team or individually to accomplish your tasks

· Like to build long term relationships with your customers

· Physical activity may include:

· Position is generally sedentary, sitting for long periods of time, with occasional mobility in an office environment

· Ability to lift up to 25 pounds

· Be able to hear and respond to the spoken voice and to audible alarms generated by an office environment

· Ability to access and interpret information in print and electronically, including the use of adaptive technologies or methods as necessary

· Effectively communicate with colleagues and clients, both in-person and through electronic means

· Tasks may involve repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and or fingers due to continuous typing or writing

Qualifications

· Minimum age of 18 years old

· Ability to read, write, speak, and understand the English language, to include documents

· Experience in load planning, cargo handling, or a related field in the aviation industry

· Strong understanding of aircraft weight and balance principles, as well as cargo loading regulations

· Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

· Proficiency in relevant software and load planning tools

· Good communication skills for coordinating with various teams

· Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing schedules

· Flexibility to work in shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays

· Knowledge of the Aviation Industry

· Comfortable working with computers, mobile devices, and tablets

· Ability to pass a drug screen

· Eligibility to acquire needed credentials and clearances (FAA, TSA, Port Authority, U.S. Customs and U.S. Postal- as applicable)

· Must have a valid state-issued driver’s license with an acceptable driving record

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

PrimeFlight Aviation Services, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All applicants and employees are considered and evaluated for positions at PrimeFlight Aviation Services, Inc. without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, uniform service member and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state/province, and local laws.


PrimeFlight Aviation Services logo

About PrimeFlight Aviation Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PrimeFlight Aviation Services, based in Sugar Land, TX, US, is a leading name in the aviation support industry. The company is particularly recognized for offering high-quality ground handling services, aircraft cleaning, de-icing, and wheelchair services. With a history rooted back in 1964, PrimeFlight has a strong reputation built upon consistently delivering unmatched aviation services. The company operates with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, integrity, and service excellence as its defining core values. Its mission is to provide solutions that drive customer value and operational efficiency, delivering to clients, an impressive service level that redefines the industry standards. Some of its notable achievements include being a preferred partner of some of the world's largest airlines and an exemplary safety record.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sugar Land, TX, US

Year founded

2001

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