1

Baggage Handler Ramp Agent Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-44

Baggage Handler Ramp Agent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$17

$21

How much do baggage handler ramp agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for baggage handler ramp agent in Chicago, IL is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a baggage handler ramp agent?

Baggage Handler Ramp Agents are airport employees responsible for loading, unloading, and transporting passengers' luggage and cargo between the terminal and aircraft. They work on the airport tarmac (ramp), ensuring that baggage is handled safely, efficiently, and in accordance with airline procedures. Their duties may also include operating baggage carts, conveyor belts, and other equipment, as well as assisting with aircraft marshaling and de-icing operations. These agents play a vital role in keeping flights on schedule and ensuring passengers' belongings arrive safely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a baggage handler ramp agent?

To thrive as a Baggage Handler Ramp Agent, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with conveyor systems, handheld scanners, and safety equipment is commonly required, and some positions may require a valid driver’s license or completion of airport security clearances. Strong teamwork, time management, and effective communication skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, physically demanding environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient baggage handling and minimizing disruptions to airport operations.

What are some common challenges faced by baggage handler ramp agents, and how are they addressed on the job?

Baggage Handler Ramp Agents often work in fast-paced, physically demanding environments where managing time and safety is crucial. Challenges can include handling heavy luggage, working in various weather conditions, and coordinating with multiple teams to ensure timely aircraft departures. To address these, agents receive training in safe lifting techniques, wear appropriate protective gear, and communicate closely with supervisors and other ground crew members. Teamwork and attention to detail are essential to maintain efficiency and minimize errors during loading and unloading.

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

AspectBaggage Handler Ramp AgentCargo Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety and equipment training
Work EnvironmentAirport tarmac, baggage claim areasCargo warehouses, aircraft loading zones
Employer & IndustryAirlines, airportsAirlines, freight companies
Job FocusHandling passenger baggageHandling freight and cargo

While both roles involve working in airport environments and require safety training, Baggage Handler Ramp Agents primarily focus on passenger baggage, whereas Cargo Handlers manage freight and cargo shipments. The roles differ in their specific tasks but share similar work settings and credential requirements.

Are baggage handlers and ramp agents the same?

Baggage handlers and ramp agents are often used interchangeably to describe workers responsible for loading, unloading, and managing luggage and cargo on aircraft. The job typically involves operating equipment like conveyor belts and ensuring safety protocols are followed. While some airlines or airports may differentiate roles slightly, these terms generally refer to the same position in the aviation industry.

How much are baggage handlers paid?

Baggage handlers, also known as ramp agents, typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, while experienced handlers or those working at major airports can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also increase total pay.

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

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

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Baggage Handler Ramp Agent jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Baggage Handler Ramp Agent job openings:

Infographic showing various Baggage Handler Ramp Agent job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,796 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Air Cargo Warehouse Agent

Chicago, IL • On-site

Worldwide Flight Services
Transportation and Warehousing • 10K+ employees

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Worldwide Flight Services rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About WFS

Join our Worldwide Flight Services family and contribute to the timely delivery of cargo shipment, luggage, business to customer delivery, and on-time flights while operating safely and securely.  We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and strive to be an exceptional leader in our industry with our teams of cargo, passenger, ramp handling, and technical service experts in 164 airport locations, 18 countries, and on 5 continents.  Are you ready to take off on your next career with us?

Job Summary

The work of a Ramp Clerk includes the following: loading and unloading of cargo (mail, express, baggage, freight, and company material) on and off aircraft; the transporting of cargo between terminals and aircraft; the ramp transfers of cargo where required; the receiving, delivering, and physical handling of freight and company material, export at the designated express docks, mail and baggage in the outbound baggage room; the completion of forms and messages related to and necessary for the performance of the designated locations of the functions described.  Comply with WFS site security procedures for assigned warehouse and other operations.  Remain cognizant of WFS staff, security contractors, and visitors' activities and report security breaches, suspicious occurrences, or non-compliance with the site security plan to managers or via the WFS whistleblower program. This job is covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

Curious to learn more about what we do, please click the link below:

https://jobs.wfs.aero/content/Day-In-The-Life-Cargo/?locale=en_US

Responsibilities
  • Load and unload aircraft of cargo weighing up to 70 lbs. in and out of aircraft within confined cargo areas, push, pull, and position loaded containers weighing up to 3,200 lbs. on rollers with/to aircraft.
  • Driving vehicles with gross weights of 3,000 to 80,000 lbs. in areas congested with aircraft, moving and stationary vehicles and equipment as well as positioning vehicle up to aircraft requiring depth perception and the ability to distinguish colors, red, green, and yellow.
  • Engage in push-out of aircraft driving 80,000 lb. vehicle or assist by providing guide function to driver using depth perception in congested areas or speaking to cockpit during push-back procedure.
  • Transport cargo to and from aircraft driving 3,000 lb. vehicle using depth perception to negotiate vehicle with attached carts through congested area.  Read "off-load" sheets to determine destination of cargo.
  • While performing aircraft push-out and/or towing functions, engage in proper specific ground to cockpit communication via hand signals and voice commands, with and without, the assistance of sight or visual aids.
  • Ability to successfully communicate with others.
  • Ability to work in a high-noise level environment.
  • Ability to understand and react to verbal commands and safety warnings, with and without, assistance of sight or visual aids.
  • Pull, push, and lift bags weighing up to 70 lbs. onto or from a conveyor belt.
  • Pull water hose from stationary cabinet and connect to aircraft.
  • Lift, connect overhead and remove overhead, 40 lb. KVA electric cable to/from aircraft.
  • De-ice aircraft at heights of up to 20 - 80 ft. lifting and holding nose, spray exterior of wings and fuselage with glycol.
  • Ability to judge distances.
  • Ability to confront and question unauthorized personnel in secured areas, and report their presence to authorities as necessary.
  • Reports to work on a regular and timely basis.
Minimum Requirements
  • HS Diploma, GED or Equivalent
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to work rotating shifts including weekends (i.e., Friday, Saturday, Sunday), holidays, and days off.

**This job is covered by a collective bargaining agreement of the Transport Workers Union (TWU), a labor union which requires joining the TWU and paying union dues.** 

Preferred Skills
  • Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language.
Physical Requirements/Working Conditions
  • Ability to lift up to 70 lbs.
  • Ability to work in all types of weather conditions as well as environmental conditions, i.e., jet engine fumes, vehicle emissions, dust, and jet engine noise.
  • Ability to distinguish colors, red, green, and yellow.
Perks & Benefits
  • Want your pay in advance?  Access your pay when you need it through DailyPay app!
  • Are you a top performer who thrives on recognition?  On the spot awards offered through the Awardco Platform including gift cards and more!
  • Need quality medical care?   Multiple options for both full and part-time employees!
  • Want WFS Employee Extras? Travel Discounts, Pet insurance, Discount Shopping & More!
  • Looking to stay healthy and improve your life?  Wellness Programs offered to all employees!
  • Want to invest in your future?  401k program offered!
  • Looking to grow and have a career with us?  Opportunity for Internal Mobility and transfers available!

WFS is an equal opportunity employer committed to employment equity and inclusion. We accept applications from all qualified individuals.


What Worldwide Flight Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom