ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Simos

Airport Cargo Forklift Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.75 - $23/hr

This position involves operating a forklift to load and unload air cargo containers and pallets ... Follow airport and TSA safety/security protocols. * Work efficiently in tight and fast-paced ...

Unifi

Airport Cargo Agent - ABQ

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

General information Job Title Airport Cargo Agent - ABQ Date Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Entity Unifi ... Load and unload freight, packages or cargo. * Take orders from customers, arrange for pickup of ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

Unifi

Airport Cargo Agent - BHM DL

Birmingham, AL · On-site

General information Job Title Airport Cargo Agent - BHM DL Date Tuesday, July 28, 2026 Entity Unifi ... Load and unload freight, packages or cargo. * Take orders from customers, arrange for pickup of ...

Unifi

Airport Cargo Agent Delta - ABQ

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

General information Job Title Airport Cargo Agent Delta - ABQ Date Thursday, July 30, 2026 Entity ... Load and unload freight, packages or cargo. * Take orders from customers, arrange for pickup of ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Flowood, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

GAT Airline Ground Support

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA

$18 - $22.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

GAT Airline Ground Support

Airport Cargo Agent

Greer, SC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Dallas, TX · On-site

$16.75 - $21.25/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

GAT Airline Ground Support

Airport Cargo Agent

Flowood, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Flowood, MS · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

wearegat

Airport Cargo Agent

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Load/unload air cargo on and off aircraft, carts, container, and trucks * Transporting between terminals and aircraft; ramp transfers of cargo such as receiving, delivering, weighing, and documenting ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTransportation And Storage JobsWarehousing JobsFreight Handler JobsEntry Level Airport Cargo Loader Jobs

Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader information

See salary details

$12

$19

$25

How much do entry level airport cargo loader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level airport cargo loader 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 does an entry level airport cargo loader do?

An Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader is responsible for loading and unloading luggage, cargo, and mail onto and from aircraft safely and efficiently. They operate various ground equipment, follow safety procedures, and ensure items are handled with care to prevent damage. Their work is essential to keeping flights on schedule, and they often work as part of a team in fast-paced environments. Physical fitness, attention to detail, and the ability to work in various weather conditions are important for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level airport cargo loader?

To thrive as an Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cargo handling equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes a forklift certification are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you excel in fast-paced, dynamic environments. These abilities are essential for ensuring efficient, safe, and timely movement of goods within airport operations.

What are the most common physical and logistical challenges faced by entry level airport cargo loaders, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Entry level airport cargo loaders often face physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy cargo, working in various weather conditions, and meeting tight deadlines to ensure flights depart on time. New hires may also need to quickly learn how to use specialized equipment like conveyor belts and forklifts, follow strict safety protocols, and communicate efficiently with team members and supervisors. Preparing by building physical stamina, familiarizing yourself with safety guidelines, and developing teamwork skills can help ease the transition. Many airports also provide thorough on-the-job training to support new employees as they adapt to these challenges.

What is the difference between Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader vs Entry Level Baggage Handler?

AspectEntry Level Airport Cargo LoaderEntry Level Baggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety certifications
Work EnvironmentCargo warehouses, aircraft cargo holdsAirport tarmacs, baggage claim areas
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, cargo carriers, freight companiesAirlines, airports, ground handling services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both roles involve working in airport environments and require safety certifications. The main difference is that cargo loaders handle freight and cargo in warehouses and aircraft holds, while baggage handlers focus on managing passenger luggage on the tarmac and at baggage claim. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and interests.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Cargo Loader jobs?

The most popular types of Airport Cargo Loader jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader jobs?

For Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Airport Cargo Loader job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,176 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Airport Cargo Forklift Operator

Simos

Chicago, IL • On-site

$19.75 - $23/hr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
We are seeking reliable and experienced Airport Cargo Forklift Operators to join our team! This position involves operating a forklift to load and unload air cargo containers and pallets, move freight safely across the warehouse and ramp areas, and support cargo operations in a fast-paced airport environment. Join our team and enjoy weekly pay, paid training, health benefits, and opportunities for advancement. Apply today and start your career in air cargo logistics!
  • 1st Shift: 6 am - 2:30 pm
  • 2nd Shift: 2:00 pm - 10:30 pm
  • 3rd Shift: 10 pm - 6:30 am

Shift schedules are subject to change. This is a 24/7 operation, and Associates must be available to work weekends and holidays.
Perks & Benefits
  • Casual Dress Code
  • Other on the spot perks
  • Paid Training
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Direct Deposit or Cash Card pay options
  • Medical / Dental Insurance
  • STD /LTD
  • Paid Time Off
  • Advancement Opportunities
  • $19.75 - $23.00 / Hour

Employment Type & Shifts
  • Full Time

  • All Shifts
  • 1st Shift
  • 2nd Shift
  • 3rd Shift

Job Responsibilities
The duties of this position include, but are not limited to: equipment inspections, safe forklift operation on the warehouse floor and ramp areas, loading/unloading ULDs (Unit Load Devices) and cargo pallets from aircraft and trucks, staging freight, verifying cargo tags, and assisting with inventory and documentation.
  • Safely operate forklifts and other cargo handling equipment.
  • Load and unload air cargo from aircraft, trucks, and containers
  • Verify and document cargo information to ensure accuracy.
  • Follow airport and TSA safety/security protocols.
  • Work efficiently in tight and fast-paced environments.
  • Support team members to meet flight schedules and customer demands

Requirements for this role include:
  • Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) check and fingerprinting
  • ICE background check
  • Previous forklift experience is recommended.
  • Show proof of eligibility to work in the US. A valid driver's license or State ID is required for these positions.
  • All attendance policies must be adhered to for the duration of employment.
  • This is a 24/7 operation, and working weekends and holidays is required

Associate Requirements
  • HS Diploma or GED
  • Background Check
  • Able to Lift 60 pounds
  • Drug Test
  • Stand for Shift Duration
  • Must be at least 18 years old

Apply