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Cargo Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Modern Aviation

Handler, Cargo

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Description The part time Cargo Handler plays a key role in supporting aircraft cargo operations while delivering exceptional customer service to aircraft owners, passengers, and flight crews. This ...

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Cargo Handler information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do cargo handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo handler 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 a cargo handler?

Cargo handlers are professionals responsible for loading, unloading, and moving goods and materials in airports, warehouses, shipping docks, and other transportation hubs. They ensure that cargo is properly sorted, labeled, secured, and handled according to safety regulations and company procedures. Cargo handlers often use machinery like forklifts or conveyor belts and may be required to lift heavy items manually. Their role is crucial in maintaining the efficiency and safety of goods movement in the logistics and transportation industry.

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

To thrive as a Cargo Handler, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with warehouse management systems, pallet jacks, forklifts, and sometimes OSHA certification are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for managing tight schedules and ensuring safety. These skills and qualifications are essential for efficiently moving goods, maintaining accurate records, and upholding workplace safety standards.

What are some common challenges cargo handlers face on the job and how can they be managed?

Cargo Handlers often encounter challenges such as handling heavy or awkward loads, working in varying weather conditions, and meeting tight deadlines for shipments. To manage these, it is important to use proper lifting techniques and equipment, follow safety protocols, and maintain clear communication with team members and supervisors. Staying organized and being adaptable to changing schedules or shipment priorities can also help Cargo Handlers navigate the fast-paced work environment successfully.

What is the difference between Cargo Handler vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectCargo HandlerWarehouse Worker
CertificationsTypically requires OSHA safety training, forklift certificationOften requires OSHA safety training, forklift certification
Work EnvironmentAirports, shipping docks, freight terminalsWarehouses, distribution centers, storage facilities
Job DutiesLoading/unloading cargo, securing freight, operating forkliftsPicking, packing, organizing inventory, operating equipment

Both Cargo Handlers and Warehouse Workers require safety certifications and often operate similar equipment. However, Cargo Handlers focus on managing freight at transportation hubs, while Warehouse Workers handle inventory within storage facilities. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

How much does a cargo handler earn?

A cargo handler's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $12 to $20 per hour. Entry-level positions may pay closer to the lower end, while experienced handlers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. Many cargo handlers work in warehouses or airports and may require physical strength and safety training.

What skills do you need to be a cargo handler?

A cargo handler needs physical strength and stamina to lift and move heavy items, good organizational skills to manage shipments, and attention to detail to ensure accurate loading and unloading. Knowledge of safety procedures and the ability to operate equipment like forklifts are also important. Certifications such as OSHA safety training may be required depending on the employer.
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Cargo Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Handler job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,176 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Handler, Cargo

Wilmington, NC • On-site

Modern Aviation
Aviation • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Modern Aviationexternal

$20 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Modern Aviation rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description

The part time Cargo Handler plays a key role in supporting aircraft cargo operations while delivering exceptional customer service to aircraft owners, passengers, and flight crews. This role works both inside the FBO terminal and outside on the aircraft parking ramp, coordinating closely with Line Service, Operations, and leadership teams to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant cargo handling and ancillary services.

3 days/week, usually 4:30am - 8:30am or 4:30pm - 8:30pm work schedules.

Cargo Handling & Ramp Operations
  • Build, load, secure, and break down LD7 and other Unit Load Devices (ULDs) in accordance with airline or customer load plans
  • Stage, sort, and label cargo for build up and break down activities
  • Load and offload cargo and baggage from carts, vehicles, and aircraft
  • Verify airway bills, manifests, and cargo documentation for accuracy
  • Marshal aircraft in and out of position and support ramp operations
  • Operate ground support equipment including belt loaders, K loaders, de ice trucks, and other applicable equipment
  • Escort customer vehicles on and off the airfield when required
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by leadership.

Safety, Compliance & Security
  • Ensure cargo security at all times and conduct dangerous goods and hazardous material checks (Class 6 & 10)
  • Follow all TSA, FAA, IS BAH, DOT, and OSHA regulations and safety protocols
  • Remain alert and responsive to hazards associated with moving aircraft, equipment, and ramp environments
  • Apply safety procedures consistently and escalate concerns to leadership when necessary

Customer Service & Experience
  • Meet, greet, and welcome passengers and flight crews upon aircraft arrival
  • Support flight crews with baggage handling, ground transportation, and operational needs
  • Direct flight crews to the terminal to place fuel and service orders
  • Follow up to ensure all fuel and service requests are completed to support on time departures
  • Thank customers for their business and encourage future visits
  • Champion best practices to continuously improve service delivery and customer experience

Communication & Teamwork
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with customers, teammates, and leadership
  • Use written, verbal, and radio communication effectively, including phonetic alphabet and aviation acronyms
  • Coordinate with Managers, Line Service, and other team members to respond to requests and resolve issues
  • Partner with fellow teammates when not actively supporting customer aircraft
  • Assume additional responsibilities as needed to support Modern Aviation's evolving business objectives

Physical Requirements & Schedule
  • Ability to perform frequent stooping, kneeling, crouching, bending, reaching, grasping, stretching, walking, sitting, and crawling
  • Ability to regularly lift up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to work in outdoor environments, including extreme heat, cold, wet, and humid conditions
  • Willingness to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on flight schedules


Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent; Associate degree in aviation or business related field preferred
  • Valid driver's license
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Prior aviation, warehouse, cargo, or ramp experience preferred
  • Familiarity with Unit Load Devices (ULDs) a plus
  • Knowledge of IATA and ICAO regulations preferred
  • Ability to read, write, and understand the English language
  • Comfortable learning and using computer software and Point of Sale systems
  • Ability to thrive in fast paced and high pressure environments

Working conditions and physical demands for this role

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to loud noise levels; high, precarious places; vibration; moving mechanical parts; and chemicals including aviation fuels, oils, and lavatory fluid. The employee will regularly work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, wet, and humid environments.

Note: The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.

Predictive Index Assessment

Please click on the link below to complete a behavioral assessment. This step is required.

https://assessment.predictiveindex.com/bo/804D/CargoHandler_Oct2025_13263

Modern Aviation's Pay Range

$20.00 - $22.00/hr. *Part-time, Seasonal, and Variable positions are not eligible for health benefits.

The Modern Aviation pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, or other laws.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Modern Aviation is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer. Modern Aviation is unable to sponsor or assume sponsorship of an employment visa.

If you require accommodations during the interview process or have questions, please contact careers@modern-aviation.com.

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