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Cargo Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Everts Air Cargo

Cargo Agent

Fairbanks, AK · On-site

$21/hr

Conduct self, and operating equipment correctly and safely around all areas of air operations ... Handle freight, cargo, and US Mails in Company's operations to and from other facilities and ...

Faro Cargo Handling Solutions

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Experienced Cargo Builders

Chicago, IL · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Comply with company's Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and policies *Ensure paperwork is prepared timely and accurately *Make sure paperwork related to the Cargo is correct before release *Assure ...

Northern Air Cargo

NAC Cargo Service Agent

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$20.25/hr

OUR OPERATING COMPANIES & BRANDS: * Northern Air Cargo (NAC): The largest all-cargo airline in Alaska since 1956. Operating out of its primary base at the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport ...

Faro Cargo Handling Solutions

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WAREHOUSE CARGO AGENTS

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.10 - $21/hr

Comply with company's Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and policies *Ensure paperwork is prepared timely and accurately *Make sure paperwork related to the Cargo is correct before release *Assure ...

Aloha Air Cargo

AAC - FT/PT Cargo Agent OGG

Kahului, HI · On-site

$20/hr

Cargo Agent duties include any one or a combination of duties include the loading and unloading of ... Operating Permit, and the ability to obtain certification to operate forklift trucks for the ...

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Cargo Operator information

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$12

$19

$25

How much do cargo operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo operator 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 operator?

Cargo operators are professionals responsible for coordinating, managing, and overseeing the movement of goods and freight by air, sea, or land. They ensure that cargo is properly loaded, transported, and delivered according to schedules and safety regulations. Their duties can include preparing shipping documents, communicating with clients and transportation providers, tracking shipments, and resolving any issues that arise during transit. Cargo operators play a key role in the logistics and supply chain industry by ensuring the efficient and timely delivery of goods.

What are some common challenges cargo operators face during daily operations?

Cargo Operators often encounter challenges such as managing tight schedules, coordinating with multiple teams, and ensuring all cargo is properly documented and handled according to safety standards. Delays in transportation or last-minute changes in cargo manifests can require quick problem-solving and adaptability. Effective communication with logistics coordinators, warehouse staff, and transportation providers is essential to keep operations running smoothly.

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

To thrive as a Cargo Operator, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often with additional training in logistics or warehousing. Familiarity with cargo management systems, inventory software, and equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks is typically required. Effective communication, problem-solving ability, and teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure efficient and safe handling of goods, minimize errors, and support smooth logistics operations.

What is the difference between Cargo Operator vs Freight Handler?

AspectCargo OperatorFreight Handler
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and safety certificationsUsually requires safety training and physical fitness
Work EnvironmentOperates cargo loading equipment, works in warehouses and airportsHandles freight, loads/unloads cargo, works in warehouses and cargo terminals
Industry UsageCommonly employed in airports, shipping companies, logistics firmsEmployed in warehouses, distribution centers, airports

While both Cargo Operators and Freight Handlers work in logistics and cargo environments, Cargo Operators primarily operate loading equipment and manage cargo movement, whereas Freight Handlers focus on physically handling and sorting freight. Both roles are essential in the supply chain but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

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Cargo Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,176 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

HNL Cargo Customer Service Agent

UnitedService Companies

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

About U.S. Aviation Services US Aviation a United Service Companies, is a contracted ground handler for commercial airline carriers and cargo operators.Established in 1965, United Service Companies ("USC") began as a maintenance company and trade show service provider in Chicago, Illinois. Today, our company is comprised of five specialized groups that deliver unparalleled custodial, staffing, and security services for customers with diverse business needs from the Eastern Seaboard to Hawaii. Throughout, our company's overarching goal is to provide exceptional customer service by exceeding our customers' expectations.At USC, we are passionate about customer service. Our service is unmatched in the industry because of the training we provide. With a strong attention to detail and the quality of service, our entire staff is fully trained to excel in four- and five-star properties.We pride ourselves on partnering with our customers, and we are committed to providing each customer high-quality services at a competitive price. In this day of cutting corners and cutthroat pricing, you can rest assured that we will not sacrifice quality for cost.Our areas of focus include commercial cleaning services, facility support services, complete staffing solutions, hospitality services, trade show and convention services, security solutions, and aviation services.As a contracted ground handler for commercial airline carriers and cargo operators, services that we provide are, but not limited to:Airport Operations Customer Service Agents and Baggage HandlersCargo Operations Customer Service Agents, Cargo and Mail Handlers, TSA approved ScreeningCabin Services Cabin cleaning, Lavatory services, Cabin Security ChecksRamp Services Loading/Off Loading Cargo, Passenger Baggage handlingRole and ResponsibilitiesAs a Cargo Customer Service Agent your primary job duty is, but is not limited to the following:To ensure the safety and security of all cargo tendered for transportation and distributionFollow all government and operational regulationsKeep records of all goods shipped, received, and storedEnter shipping information into a computer by hand or by a hand-held scanner that reads bar codes on goodsCheck import or export documentation to determine cargo contents and use tariff coding system to classify goods according to fee or tariff group; Verify shipping documentationPrepare manifests showing numbers of cargo, cargo weights, mail, and transmitting data to destinationsAdvise clients on transportation and payment methodsTrack delivery progress of shipmentsNotify consignees or customers of cargo arrival and arrange for deliveryRetrieve stored items and trace lost shipments as necessaryAttach address labels, identification codes, and shipping instructions to containersInspect and count items received and check them against invoices or other documents, recording shortages and rejecting damaged goodsQualifications and Education Requirements18 years old or have a valid government issued workers permitHigh school graduate or GEDUS Citizen (Screener qualified)Ability to stand for long periodsLift 25-75 lbs.Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen, obtain a SIDA badge, USPS certification, and 10-year back ground checkPreferred SkillsCustomer serviceAdditional NotesUS Aviation is a drug-free environment and has a strict zero tolerance policy for violence and harassment. All employees are required to maintain proper grooming standards and conduct themselves in a professional manner when interacting with external and internal customers. Use of social media with regards to our operations and policies are strictly prohibited.