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Cargo Loadmaster Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Material Handler 1

Irvine, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.96/hr

Aircraft Loadmaster Helper Navy MOS: BM: Boatswain Marine MOS: 3052: Packaging Specialist Army MOS: 57H: Army Cargo Handler Department: Production & Manufacturing Shift: 1st Shift Coast Guard MOS: SK:

Material Handler 1 (Feeder)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22.60/hr

Aircraft Loadmaster Helper Navy MOS: BM: Boatswain Marine MOS: 3052: Packaging Specialist Army MOS: 57H: Army Cargo Handler Department: Production & Manufacturing Shift: 1st Shift Coast Guard MOS: SK:

Cargo Loadmaster information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do cargo loadmaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo loadmaster in California is $20.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cargo loadmaster do?

A Cargo Loadmaster is responsible for planning, loading, and securing cargo on aircraft to ensure safe and efficient transportation. They calculate weight distribution, balance the load, and follow aviation regulations to maintain flight safety. Loadmasters also coordinate with pilots, ground crews, and logistics teams to manage cargo handling before, during, and after flights. Their role is crucial in military, commercial, and humanitarian airlift operations.

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

A Cargo Loadmaster needs expertise in cargo weight and balance calculations, loading/unloading procedures, and logistics, usually supported by specialized training or certification. Familiarity with load planning software, aircraft-specific cargo systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, teamwork, and strong communication skills are crucial soft skills for managing fast-paced, dynamic situations. These abilities are vital to ensure cargo is transported safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory standards.

What are the typical team dynamics and collaboration aspects of a cargo loadmaster position?

Cargo Loadmasters work closely with flight crews, ground personnel, and logistics coordinators to ensure the safe and efficient loading of aircraft. This role often involves coordinating with diverse team members to resolve last-minute issues or changes in cargo requirements. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as loadmasters must relay accurate loading instructions and ensure compliance with safety regulations. The collaborative environment means you'll frequently interact with others, making strong interpersonal skills a valuable asset for success.

What are popular job titles related to Cargo Loadmaster jobs in California?

For Cargo Loadmaster jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cargo Loadmaster jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cargo Loadmaster jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Cargo Loadmaster job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,238 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper)

Redding, CA • On-site

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in managing the activities of the Smokejumper Group.

  • Provide technical expertise in smokejumping operations, loft, loadmaster, training, and prescribed fire.

  • Perform duties related to parachute jumping, aircraft loading, cargo delivery, equipment maintenance, and smokejumper safety programs.


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

These position are located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The primary purpose of this position is to assist in managing the activities of the Smokejumper Group and to provide the Forest Service's highest level of technical expertise in the field of smokejumping operations, loft, loadmaster, training and prescribed fire.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for the specific contact information.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-08: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Performed as an Initial Attack Commander responsible for leading a squad of personnel in wildland suppression activities; Directed and coordinated all types of related aircraft, fire line personnel and equipment; Led other crew members in all applicable smokejumper duties including parachute rigging and repair, paracargo rigging, aircraft loading, sewing and manufacturing, equipment maintenance and other duties which support the smokejumper program.
For the GW-09: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-08) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Served as spotter and made critical safety decisions on jump actions and fire strategies and tactics; Assisted in managing Smokejumper Safety Programs such as Smokejumper First Aid or Prescribed Fire/Fuels Treatment and Chainsaw Safety, or Smokejumper Spotter/Pilot Program; Served as a cargo dropper in charge of aerial delivery missions in a variety of aircraft involving both paracargo and free-fall delivery using systems.
Smokejumper duties present unusual hazards and require that personnel be in excellent physical condition and possess a high degree of emotional stability and mental alertness. The health of individuals must be such that they have the capacity to meet demands for performance in the position and for human reliability. Before entrance on duty, and periodically during employment, smokejumpers must undergo a medical exam, physical conditioning, and an adeptness test. Failure to meet any of the required standards will be considered disqualifying for employment or a basis of termination.
See Medical Requirements for Smokejumper Positions.
During the training period, incumbents are continually evaluated on their ability to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in various aspects of parachute jumping and smokejumper-related tasks, including aircraft exit procedures, parachute landing falls, parachute maneuvering, timber let-down procedures, parachute and cargo retrieving, tree climbing, and chainsaw and hand tool use. Incumbents who cannot perform up to the required standards of proficiency will be terminated from the smokejumper program. Smokejumpers must perform safely and efficiently in extreme temperatures and weather conditions, often with severe smoke and dust. Terrain may be extremely steep, uneven, rocky, and covered with thick tangled vegetation. Conditions riding in aircraft may be hot, cramped, and extremely turbulent, which may promote airsickness. The hazardous nature of the work requires that protective clothing (jump suit, helmet, boots, gloves, fire resistant clothing, etc.) be worn and protective equipment, including fire shelters, be carried.
Selective Placement Factors
Must be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a Senior Parachute Rigger under FAR part 65.
Must be currently or have been previously qualified as a smokejumper on an organized wildland fire smokejumper crew.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no education requirement or substitution for this position.Employment Type: OTHER

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