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Ground Handling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GSE Mechanic

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$23.50 - $30.75/hr

Alliance Ground International (AGI) is one of the largest independently owned ground handling company providing services to 100+ airlines in 61 airports across the U.S. and Canada. We are the home to ...

GSE Mechanic

Atlanta, GA

$23.50 - $30.75/hr

Alliance Ground International (AGI) is one of the largest independently owned ground handling company providing services to 100+ airlines in 61 airports across the U.S. and Canada. We are the home to ...

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Ground Handling information

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$12

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How much do ground handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for ground handling in the United States is $20.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do ground handlers get paid?

Ground handlers typically earn an average hourly wage ranging from $12 to $20, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while experienced handlers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by shift differentials or overtime pay.

What is a Ground Handling job?

A Ground Handling job involves providing various services to ensure the smooth operation of aircraft while on the ground. This includes baggage handling, aircraft refueling, passenger assistance, marshaling, and aircraft cleaning. Ground handlers work closely with airline and airport staff to facilitate on-time departures and arrivals. The role requires physical stamina, teamwork, and attention to safety regulations. It is a crucial part of airport operations to maintain efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

What are the typical work shifts and environment for Ground Handling staff?

Ground Handling staff often work in shifts that cover early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays since airports operate around the clock. The work environment can be fast-paced and outdoors, sometimes involving exposure to varying weather conditions and loud noises from aircraft. Teamwork is crucial, as ground handlers coordinate closely with flight crews, baggage handlers, and other airport personnel to ensure smooth operations. Adaptability and punctuality are highly valued, as flight schedules can change quickly and require immediate response. If you enjoy hands-on work in a dynamic setting, ground handling can be a rewarding role with opportunities for advancement into supervisory or specialized airport operations positions.

What is ground handling work?

Ground handling work involves performing various services for aircraft before and after flights, such as baggage handling, aircraft cleaning, fueling, loading and unloading cargo, and assisting with passenger boarding. It requires coordination, attention to safety procedures, and often involves operating ground support equipment. These tasks are typically carried out at airports and may require relevant certifications and adherence to safety standards.

How to become a ground handling?

To become a ground handling professional, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, and may pursue relevant certifications such as airport operations or safety training. Gaining experience in customer service, logistics, or aviation-related roles can be beneficial, and strong communication skills are essential for coordinating with airline staff and passengers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Ground Handling position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Ground Handling, strong physical fitness, attention to detail, and basic mechanical aptitude are typically required, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ground support equipment, airline software systems, and certifications such as airport safety or equipment operation are commonly needed. Excellent teamwork, time management, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this fast-paced environment. These abilities are critical to ensuring the safety, efficiency, and smooth coordination of airport ground operations.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Ground handling roles typically do not reach annual salaries of $500,000, as they are often entry-level or mid-level positions in the aviation industry. High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed this level include executive roles such as airline CEOs, senior airline management, or specialized aviation consultants, which require extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry expertise.
More about Ground Handling jobs
What cities are hiring for Ground Handling jobs? Cities with the most Ground Handling job openings:
What states have the most Ground Handling jobs? States with the most job openings for Ground Handling jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ground Handling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,456 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Ground Ramp Lead

$15 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Alliance Ground International rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 53 rated aviation services


Job description

Job Description:
Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced, safety-obsessed aviation environment?
Position Overview:
The Ground Ramp Lead oversees daily ramp operations, ensuring the efficient and safe handling of aircraft on the ground. This role involves supervising a team of ramp agents, coordinating tasks, and ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards.
Alliance Ground International (AGI) is one of the largest independently owned ground handling companies providing services to 100+ airlines in 61 airports across the U.S. and Canada. We are the home to over 12,000 team members supporting over 1.5B Kilos and over 400K departures. Our Ground division has a strong reputation in aviation ground services. We are committed to providing the highest quality service and continuing our outstanding safety track record. As we continue to grow, we only look for the best in the industry.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Lead and supervise ramp agents in the safe loading, unloading, and movement of aircraft.

  • Ensure timely and efficient turnaround of aircraft, including baggage and cargo handling.

  • Coordinate the use of ground support equipment and resources, ensuring proper handling and maintenance.

  • Perform safety checks on equipment and ensure team compliance with aviation regulations.

  • Communicate with flight crews, ground teams, and other departments to coordinate operations.

  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues on the ramp to minimize delays.

  • Train and mentor ramp agents, ensuring adherence to safety standards and operational procedures.

Safety, Security and Compliance:
All AGI Team members have a responsibility and duty while at work to:
  • Take reasonable care for the health, wellbeing, safety, and security of themselves and of others who may be affected by their actions or omissions while at work.

  • Cooperate with their manager / supervisor to allow them to perform or comply with any legal requirements imposed on the company.

  • Not intentionally or recklessly interfere with or misuse anything provided by the company in the interests of health, wellbeing, safety, security, or welfare reasons.

  • Inform their manager / supervisor of any work situation, equipment, or activity that represents a serious or immediate danger to health, wellbeing, safety, and security.

  • Report any hazards, near misses, incidents, accidents, or dangerous occurrences to their manager / supervisor, who will then follow the procedures contained in company and carrier Safety and Security procedures.

  • Carry out work in accordance with information and training provided and any specific health, wellbeing, safety, and security rules or procedures.

  • Fully understand AGI Health & Safety and Security policies.

  • Attend training courses as may be required by AGI.

Qualifications and Skills:
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent; additional certifications in ground handling preferred.

  • If work location is in the United States, must have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986. If work location is in Canada, must have authorization to work in Canada as defined by the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) of 2001.

  • Experience: 2+ years of experience in ground handling, with at least 1 year in a leadership or supervisory role.

  • Skills: Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills; ability to manage teams in fast-paced environments.

  • Knowledge: Familiarity with ramp operations, safety protocols, and ground support equipment.

AGI offers a comprehensive benefit package for all employees, including paid vacation and medical / dental / vision for full-time qualified employees as well as medical coverage for part time employees. AGI also provides free uniforms and free on-the-job training to all employees. Additional benefits include company-matched 401(k) program, company-paid employee assistance program, voluntary life insurance, and travel discounts on car rentals, hotels, and cruises to name a few.
The successful AGI team member brings their "A" game every day with energy and enthusiasm, respect for their team, and the highest regard for safety!
Alliance Ground International is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. AGI is committed to equal opportunity employment regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or veteran status.

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About Alliance Ground International

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Alliance Ground International provides airline cargo handling services to 55 airlines at thirteen airports: Atlanta, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Kansas City, LaGuardia, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York JFK, Orlando, Salt Lake City and San Francisco. Warehouse and ramp operations schedules are constantly adjusted to flight operations. Adjustments are made monthly, weekly, and in many cases, hourly. Facilities and equipment, forklifts dock lifts and roller systems, are purchased assets of and are routinely maintained more frequently than manufacturer recommendations to insure the life and optimal working performance of all equipment. Maintaining an “open door” policy with our airline clients is essential to our successful working relationships. Drawing from the unique interchange of information through individualized solutions with our clients allows us to incorporate these ideas within the structure of the operation.

Industry

Transportation and warehousing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South Miami, FL, US

Year founded

1987

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