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Cargo Load Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Manage and secure cargo loads properly * Perform regular vehicle inspections prior to and after ... Route planning and geographic knowledge

Be Seen First

Manage and secure cargo loads properly * Perform regular vehicle inspections prior to and after ... Route planning and geographic knowledge

Assists with barge cargo load planning & management and product transfers via rail cars. * Understand pipeline & piping components (i.e. valves, pumps, gauges) and the ability to maintain/repair this ...

Assists with barge cargo load planning & management and product transfers via rail cars. * Understand pipeline & piping components (i.e. valves, pumps, gauges) and the ability to maintain/repair this ...

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Cargo Load Planner information

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$14

$21

$31

How much do cargo load planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo load planner in the United States is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cargo load planner do?

A Cargo Load Planner is responsible for organizing and optimizing the placement of cargo on aircraft, ships, or trucks to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective transport. They consider factors such as weight distribution, balance, cargo dimensions, and regulations to create detailed load plans. Their work helps prevent overloading, ensures proper use of space, and complies with safety standards. Additionally, they often coordinate with other logistics and transportation personnel to handle last-minute changes and special cargo requirements.

What are the typical challenges a cargo load planner faces when balancing efficiency and safety regulations?

As a Cargo Load Planner, you'll often encounter the challenge of optimizing cargo loads for maximum efficiency while strictly adhering to safety regulations and weight restrictions. Balancing these priorities involves careful calculation to prevent overloading, ensuring proper weight distribution, and complying with all airline or shipping industry standards. You'll need to collaborate closely with warehouse staff, flight crews, and logistics coordinators to address last-minute changes or unexpected cargo. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial for preventing delays and ensuring safe, timely departures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cargo load planner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cargo Load Planner, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of logistics and weight distribution principles, often supported by a relevant degree or prior experience in transportation. Familiarity with load planning software, cargo management systems, and regulatory compliance tools is important for efficient operations. Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills help coordinate with multiple teams and quickly resolve unexpected issues. These capabilities are crucial to ensure safety, maximize cargo efficiency, and comply with industry regulations.

What is the difference between Cargo Load Planner vs Freight Coordinator?

AspectCargo Load PlannerFreight Coordinator
CertificationsLogistics or supply chain certifications often preferredLogistics or transportation certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentWarehouse, shipping yards, or logistics officesLogistics offices, shipping terminals, or distribution centers
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, freight carriers, logistics providersFreight forwarding companies, shipping lines, logistics firms
Primary FocusPlanning and optimizing cargo loads for transportCoordinating freight shipments and managing schedules

While both roles are integral to logistics operations, a Cargo Load Planner primarily focuses on planning and optimizing cargo loads for efficient transportation. In contrast, a Freight Coordinator manages the scheduling and coordination of freight shipments. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right role based on skills and career goals.

More about Cargo Load Planner jobs
Infographic showing various Cargo Load Planner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,173 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANT (Joint Cargo Inspector) DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY

Air Force Materiel Command

Edwards, CA • On-site, Remote

$40K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Air Force Materiel Command rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
Veteran's preference does not apply to DHA recruitment.
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for more information.
The primary purpose of this position is to perform a full range of Air Freight services including the cargo inspection process which ensures cargo is properly identified, prepared, packed and marked for air transportation.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Responsible for performing an effective General Cargo/Hazardous/Explosive Material Inspection operation, Agent will act as the sole unit representative while performing aircraft load joint inspections with various deploying units.
  • Performs load planning duties and other administrative tasks involved in the documentation of receiving, shipping and manifesting aircraft cargo shipments, passenger processing, security screening and other duties involved in passenger manifesting.
  • Performs file management, section safety monitor, and other office administrative duties.
  • Safely operates automated Matrial Handling Equipment (MHE) for the purpose of moving cargo to and from holding areas as well as loading and off loading military and commercial contracted aircraft.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship is required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see Legal and Regulatory Guidance
  • Selectee may be required to serve a probationary or trial period.
  • This posn is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • For more information on Acq Demo please go to DoD AcqDemo Homepage http://acqdemo.hci.mil/ and Fact Sheet http://acqdemo.hci.mil/faq.html
  • Recruitment incentives may be authorized
  • Selectee is expected to be granted with and/or maintain the appropriate security clearance required for the position.
  • Employee must maintain current certifications
  • This position may require drug testing and the candidate may be subject to passing a drug test upon selection.
  • Employee may be required to work other than normal duty hours, to include evenings, weekends and/or holidays
  • Shift work and emergency overtime may be required
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
  • This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.
  • Successful completion the initial and every 2 year refresher course for a formal Hazardous Materials Preparer Course and Air Mobility Command Load Planners Affiliation course is required
  • Must be able to interpret Air Force and Civilian Air Transportation regulations on the inspection of Hazardous Material shipments is required.
  • Must be able to obtain and sustain a government driver's license.
  • Duty location will alternate between Eglin main and Duke Field as mission requirements dictate.

Qualifications
Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, HERE.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower broadband NK-02, equivalent to the next lower grade GS-04 or equivalent in other pay systems. Specialized experience is experience in the skill and knowledge required in all aspects of inspecting, handling, processing, packaging and shipment of hazardous materials.. NOTE: Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement.
OR
EDUCATION:
Applicants MUST possess one full year of graduate level education that is directly related to the work of the position being filled such as, Business Administration (with a specialization in Logistics/Transportation). NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Applicants have less than the full amount of experience as described in A and I have less than the full amount of education described in B. Therefore, I have a combination of experience as described in A and education as described in B above. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
Ideal Candidate (statement is placed within the announcement): Knowledge required in all aspects of inspecting, handling, processing, packaging and shipment of hazardous materialsAbility to perform hazardous/explosive material inspections to ensure all safety requirements are met. Skill in the use of automated material processing equipment and systems. Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment required to perform hazardous material inspections, blocking and bracing and general vehicle maintenance.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  • Knowledge required in all aspects of inspecting, handling, processing, packaging and shipment of hazardous materials.
  • Ability to perform hazardous/explosive material inspections to ensure all safety requirements are met.
  • Ability to use applicable regulations, TO's and directives to ensure safe transportation of hazardous/explosive material.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a secret security clearance.
  • Knowledge of regulations, procedures and policies related to records maintenance and documentation and the ability to screen shipping and receiving documents for discrepancies.
  • Knowledge of safety regulations, practices and procedures.
  • Skill in the use of automated material processing equipment and systems.
  • Ability to interpret and apply instructions pertaining to the inspection of hazardous/explosive material.
  • Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment required to perform hazardous material inspections, blocking and bracing and general vehicle maintenance.
  • Knowledge required in file-management procedures, general administrative practices and house cleaning.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
ARE YOU USING YOUR EDUCATION TO QUALIFY? If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.
Additional information
This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in selection.
This job announcement may close at any time - apply now!
This is an acquisition demonstration project position NK-02 equivalent to a GS-05 to GS-07.
If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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