1

Cargo Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Role Purpose The Cargo Operations Manager directs and coordinates cargo handling activities to provide fast and efficient services for customers by performing the following duties personally or ...

Role Purpose The Cargo Operations Manager directs and coordinates cargo handling activities to provide fast and efficient services for customers by performing the following duties personally or ...

The Manager of Gateway Cargo Operations is responsible for overseeing and optimizing all aspects of gateway cargo operations to ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and performance standards ...

The Cargo Operations Assistant provides general administrative, cargo equipment responsibilities ... vendors and management styles. • Excellent and reliable attendance • Previous airline ...

The Cargo Operations Assistant provides general administrative, cargo equipment responsibilities ... vendors and management styles. • Excellent and reliable attendance • Previous airline ...

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal labor and cargo operations. What You Will Do: * Manage and supervise longshore workers, foremen ...

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal labor and cargo operations. What You Will Do: Manage and supervise longshore workers, foremen ...

They are looking to add two Operations Managers to lead the day-to-day supervision of terminal labor and cargo operations. What You Will Do: Manage and supervise longshore workers, foremen ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Cargo Operations Manager information

See salary details

$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do cargo operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for cargo operations manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cargo Operations Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cargo Operations Manager, you need expertise in logistics, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance, often supported by a relevant degree or industry certifications. Familiarity with cargo management systems, warehouse management software, and international shipping documentation is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in managing teams and addressing operational challenges. These abilities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and cost-effective cargo handling in a dynamic logistics environment.

How much should an operations manager get paid?

The salary for a Cargo Operations Manager typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and company size. Senior managers or those with specialized skills and certifications may earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and benefits. Industry standards suggest that salaries are also influenced by the complexity of cargo handling and operational scope.

What does a Cargo Operations Manager do?

A Cargo Operations Manager oversees the daily operations involved in transporting goods by air, sea, or land. Their responsibilities include coordinating shipments, ensuring compliance with safety and customs regulations, managing logistics staff, and maintaining communication with clients and transport partners. They also address issues such as delays or damaged goods and work to optimize efficiency and cost-effectiveness in cargo handling. This role requires strong organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

What is the highest paid job in logistics?

In logistics, executive roles such as Supply Chain Director or Vice President of Logistics tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, strategic planning skills, and often involve overseeing large teams and complex operations.

What is the role of a cargo operations manager?

A cargo operations manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of cargo handling activities within an airport, shipping port, or logistics company. They ensure compliance with safety regulations, optimize cargo flow, and manage staff and equipment to ensure efficient and secure transportation of goods. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with knowledge of relevant regulations and logistics software.

Who is higher, GM or operations manager?

In most organizations, a General Manager (GM) holds a higher position than an Operations Manager. The GM oversees multiple departments or the entire organization, while the Operations Manager typically focuses on managing daily operational activities within a specific area, such as cargo operations. The hierarchy can vary depending on the company's structure, but generally, the GM has broader executive responsibilities.

What are the main challenges a Cargo Operations Manager faces when coordinating with different stakeholders at an airport?

As a Cargo Operations Manager, one of the key challenges is ensuring seamless communication and coordination among multiple stakeholders, including airlines, ground handling staff, customs officials, and logistics partners. Each group may have different priorities and timelines, so balancing operational efficiency with regulatory compliance is essential. Proactively managing potential bottlenecks, handling last-minute schedule changes, and swiftly resolving documentation or clearance issues are common aspects of the role. Building strong relationships and fostering a collaborative environment are vital for overcoming these challenges and ensuring timely cargo movement.
More about Cargo Operations Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Cargo Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Cargo Operations Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Operations jobs? The most popular types of Cargo Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Cargo Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Cargo Operations Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Cargo Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $63,456 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
Cargo Operations Manager

Cargo Operations Manager

Menzies Aviation

Rockford, IL • On-site

$105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Menzies Aviation rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st of 53 rated aviation services


Job description

Overview

People. Passion. Pride. This is what has driven our teams since 1833.

Since that time, we have developed to become a critical partner in the global aviation industry, delivering time-critical logistics services at over 300 locations in 65 countries, across 6 continents.

But at the heart of our business is our people.

 Role Purpose

The Cargo Operations Manager directs and coordinates cargo handling activities to provide fast and efficient services for customers by performing the following duties personally or through subordinate supervisors. The Operations Manager will be responsible for all cargo operations, ensuring that the delivery of service is consistent, professional, safe, and secure. This role requires a seasoned senior manager with strong cargo operational, business understanding and leadership skills. The incumbent must have the ability to run a business in a challenging environment, whilst maintaining strict Menzies Corporate Governance and Financial guidelines.

What you will be doing 

  • Fully responsible for all aspects of the station. Service offered at the station includes Cargo Service.
  • Assist the operational team to deliver excellent and safe performance in the cargo service functions at a high-volume international airport.
  • Reviews data on incoming flights such as scheduled or estimated times of arrival or departure, destinations in order to plan work activities.
  • Implement Menzies Aviation Policies and Procedures as laid down in the Eight Pillars of Management
  • Ensures service delivery to customer airlines is according to the airline contracts, and within the agreed budget level.
  • Ensures safety and security procedures are performed according to the Menzies Health & Safety regulations, and according to international aviation standards.
  • Leading and working with the senior team to maintain and enhance appropriate, effective safety & security systems, risk assessments, periodical inspections & audits, operational training programs, planning, operational processes, and service delivery.
  • Ensure the business unit remains fully compliant with internal standards and all relevant industry, regulatory and state legislated requirements.
  • Promoting and driving a ‘safety first’ culture through all levels of the organization
  • Monitors performance, taking action to correct any shortfalls.
  • Liaise with airline station managers, airport operations staff, handling agents, customs, immigration, and security officials, and other airport stakeholders.
  • Provides reports as required, and service delivery measurements.
  • Lead and motivate hard-working teams to deliver excellent quality and productivity.
  • Required to attend the mandatory training imposed by the Company and Airlines as per job role.
  • Provides leadership to the management team, developing their skills.
  • Work shifts as required by the business including weekends and holidays.
  • To report any significant deficiency in our products, materials, and documents
  • Has a duty to suggest any improvements to working practices especially those relating to safety and security.
  • Must follow all Security procedures as required.
  • Other duties as assigned

Safety, Security, Wellbeing and Compliance:

You will have a responsibility and duty whilst at work to take reasonable care of the health, safety and wellbeing of yourself and others in accordance with provided information, training, and workplace health and safety rules or procedures. The company is committed to providing a safe working environment for all staff members. In all areas of our business there is a potential risk to the health, safety and welfare to everyone on our sites through the misuse of alcohol and drugs. As such the Company prohibits such misuse and carries out regular testing to enforce our Substance Misuse Policy.

Please see the attached job description for further details on safety, security, wellbeing & compliance.

 What we are looking for: 

  • Must possess 3-5 years of Cargo Operations and Management experience within the aviation industry.
  • Experience with sound knowledge of cargo operations and procedures required.
  • previous Management experience in the Airport Cargo Handling Business and a demonstrable track record of cargo handling success
  • A proven track record in managing a business unit.
  • Conversant with international airline cargo handling procedures, international aviation safety and security procedures,
  • Organizing and planning skills, with the ability and initiative to react effectively and quickly to unexpected circumstances.
  • A working knowledge of the IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement
  • Excellent knowledge of cargo/ramp GSE
  • Aptitude to develop the supervisory team, provide succession planning, and re-engineer business processes as demanded by changes in the business.
  • Able to work with a multinational workforce, and to adjust to the local conditions of the station.
  • Able to support other stations as required and ensure own station responsibilities are covered when on leave.
  • Ability to proficiently read, write and speak English.
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Must have a positive, can-do, upbeat personality.
  • Able to remain calm under pressure.
  • Must excel in time management skills.
  • Possess and maintain valid US driver's license.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must be able to pass all pre-employment testing to include drug testing and a physical
  • Must be comfortable lifting 25 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 70lbs.
  • Must pass FBI background check and obtain US Customs seal.
  • Must be available and flexible to work variable shifts including weekends and holidays.

Diversity

Menzies Aviation are a committed equal opportunity employer and encourage applications for suitably qualified and eligible applicants regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy, and maternity. We strive to create an inclusive working environment, where the different knowledge, perspectives, experiences, and approaches of our global workforce are represented. Where everyone feels valued and can reach their full potential.

Please be aware that as part of our recruitment process, we may look to use a variety of resourcing tools to help us understand your skills and experience in relation to the role. Please feel free to contact to recruiter below, if there are any reasonable adjustments to our process that you would like us to consider.

As part of our recruitment process, we will always consider how candidates fit with our values which you can learn more about here.

Application Instructions

Is this role ticking all the boxes for you? If so, please click apply now!


What Menzies Aviation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom