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Cargo Ramp Agent Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Cargo Ramp Agent information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do cargo ramp agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for cargo ramp agent in Washington, DC is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cargo Ramp Agent vs Baggage Handler?

AspectCargo Ramp AgentBaggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes forklift or equipment certificationsHigh school diploma, safety training, sometimes equipment operation certifications
Work EnvironmentAirports, cargo facilities, outdoor and indoor settingsAirports, baggage claim areas, outdoor and indoor settings
Employer & IndustryAirlines, cargo carriers, freight companiesAirlines, airports, ground handling services
Job FocusLoading/unloading cargo, operating ground equipmentHandling, sorting, and transporting passenger baggage

Both roles operate in airport environments and require safety training, but Cargo Ramp Agents focus on cargo logistics and equipment operation, while Baggage Handlers specialize in passenger baggage handling. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the aviation industry.

How much do ramp agents usually make?

Ramp agents typically earn an average hourly wage of $13 to $20, depending on experience, location, and employer. Annual salaries can range from approximately $27,000 to $42,000, with some positions offering additional benefits and overtime opportunities. Skills in safety procedures and equipment operation are often required for higher-paying roles.

What are some common challenges faced by Cargo Ramp Agents, and how can they be effectively managed?

Cargo Ramp Agents often work in fast-paced, physically demanding environments where weather conditions and tight schedules can pose challenges. Managing these challenges involves staying vigilant about safety protocols, maintaining clear communication with team members, and efficiently prioritizing tasks even under pressure. Familiarity with equipment and a strong focus on teamwork help ensure smooth cargo loading and unloading operations, minimizing delays and reducing the risk of errors or accidents.

Is it hard to get hired as a Ramp Agent?

Getting hired as a Cargo Ramp Agent can be competitive, but many employers prioritize candidates with physical fitness, attention to safety, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, and previous experience with logistics or manual labor can improve chances of employment.

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

To thrive as a Cargo Ramp Agent, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Familiarity with ground support equipment, barcode scanners, and airport logistics software is typically required. Strong teamwork, time management, and clear communication are crucial for efficient coordination and handling of cargo under tight deadlines. These skills ensure the safe, timely, and accurate movement of goods, which is vital to airport and airline operations.

What are Cargo Ramp Agents?

Cargo Ramp Agents are airport ground crew members responsible for loading, unloading, and handling cargo and baggage on and off aircraft. They ensure that items are properly secured and balanced according to safety regulations and airline procedures. Cargo Ramp Agents also operate ground support equipment and may assist with marshaling aircraft, maintaining communication with flight crews, and handling special cargo. Their work is essential for the smooth and timely departure and arrival of flights. This role requires attention to detail, physical fitness, and adherence to safety protocols.

Can you make 100k as a Ramp Agent?

Typically, cargo ramp agents earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, with higher earnings possible through overtime, seniority, or working for major airlines or logistics companies. Reaching a $100,000 salary as a ramp agent is uncommon and would generally require significant experience, additional responsibilities, or advancement into supervisory roles.

How much does a Ramp Agent earn?

A Cargo Ramp Agent typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires physical stamina and knowledge of safety procedures, with some positions offering overtime pay or benefits.
What are popular job titles related to Cargo Ramp Agent jobs in Washington, DC? For Cargo Ramp Agent jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cargo Ramp Agent jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Cargo Ramp Agent jobs in Washington, DC are:
Cargo Ramp Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cargo Ramp Agent job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,341 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
IAD Passenger Service Agent - Part Time

IAD Passenger Service Agent - Part Time

Swissport International AG

Dulles, VA • On-site

$18.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Swissport International AG rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 54 rated aviation services

Job description

Are you ready to take flight in a dynamic and fast-paced aviation industry? As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and Passenger Services to over 300 million passengers annually. Our mission is simple - "To provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor-made solutions around the globe, for a better customer experience."
We believe that our people are what differentiates us from our competition. At Swissport, we are driven by our core values of Show You Care, Do the Right Things and Win as a Team, and we are currently seeking dedicated individuals, who align with these values, to join our team at various locations across the globe.
Job summary
Passenger Service Agent provides all required passenger/customer services as contracted by the customer to include, but not be limited to, reservations, ticketing, baggage processing, terminal/gate check-in, jet way operation, greeting arriving passengers, handling of VIPs, providing special passenger assistance, handling customer complaints and other duties as assigned.
The expected pay rate is $18.50/hour.
Your activities
  • Inspect and verify passenger documentation
  • Issue boarding passes and reschedule passengers affected by flight interruptions or cancellations
  • Manage passenger baggage processing including handling and fee calculation if applicable
  • Assist passengers as needed through arrival and check in processes including support for passengers with special needs such as unaccompanied minors (UM), VIP passengers and passengers needing wheelchair assistance
  • Direct passengers through Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine, as required
  • Make public address announcements as required
  • Assist Ramp Service Agents to ensure that wheelchairs, strollers and gate checked bags (cleared through security) are made available for loading upon departure and delivery to passengers upon arrival
  • Comply with all federal, state, municipal, airport authority and carrier security requirements and Swissport SOPs and policies
  • Operate equipment to include the jet way, computer keyboards, and carrier specific reservation/ ticketing software
  • Produce all required, work-related documentation
  • Other duties as assigned

Your profile
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Passionate about customer service and must have relevant work experience
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) in country specific language
  • Additional languages desirable
  • Commitment to continuous improvement
  • Self motivated and able to work independently
  • Attentive to detail and numerate
  • Ability to follow processes and procedures and apply flexible approach when required
  • Must be able to type and learn airline specific computer reservation/ ticketing software
  • Willingness to work in inclement weather

At Swissport, we believe in diversity, equal opportunity, and the power of our values to drive our success. We are committed to providing a workplace that fosters inclusion and where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
Visit our website at www.careers.swissport.com to learn more about Life at Swissport.
Join Swissport today and be part of a team that connects the world of aviation!

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