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Ground Handling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$15.75 - $19.25/hr

We are a ground handling services company supporting multiple airline carriers, and we are actively looking to connect with former Spirit ground operations professionals. This is an evergreen posting ...

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Ground Handling information

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$12

$20

$31

How much do ground handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 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.
Cargo Operations Manager

Full-time

Posted 26 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:
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 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 level of quality service and continuing our track record of outstanding safety. As we continue to grow, we are looking for only the best in the industry.
As an Operations Manager you will be overseeing aircraft ground-handling services station operations including but not limited to wide- and narrow-body ramp, baggage and cabin cleaning services, GSE maintenance, primary customer service and liaison, and identification of new business opportunities.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES - include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Reports directly to the Station Manager.
  • Understand contract requirements and customer expectations.
  • Determine and maintain the necessary and appropriate amount of personnel and equipment necessary to fulfill these requirements.
  • Direct and control people and equipment to efficiently complete the tasks within established company standards. This is achieved through the disciplined following of work schedules in line with established company standards.
  • Know company policies and interpret manuals in order to relate the interpretations to subordinates.
  • Monitor and/or conduct required training of personnel.
  • Conduct employee performance evaluations.
  • Provide employee counseling and discipline as needed.
  • Be responsible for the security of company funds, supplies, and equipment.
  • Be responsible for ensuring compliance with established company safety policies and procedures, including ramp safety, FAA, and airline customer service required audits.
  • Maintain a working relationship with customers and provide prompt responses to service requests.
  • Actively search for and report to station management future business opportunities.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and Motor Vehicle Report/ MVR.
  • Must possess at least a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.
  • Must pass a drug test/ background check and be able to obtain an airport security clearance.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to lift to 70 pounds in confined spaces.
  • Must be able to stand, lift, bend, push, and pull for extended periods of time.
  • Must be willing to work outside in all types of weather and elevated noise levels within the airport environment.

BACKGROUND QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Three to five years of progressive management experience including customer service, ground handling of commercial aircraft.
  • Knowledge of applicable FAA regulations, including standard TSA security program, NFPA, and OSHA regulations or bachelor's degree in business.
  • One-year minimum experience handling narrow-body aircraft.
  • Familiar with airline passenger computer programs.
  • Familiar with GSE maintenance procedures.
  • Computer skills required.

LOCATION/SPECIFIC WORKING HOURS:
  • Must be able to work extended hours on short notice during non-routine operations.
  • Some travel required.
  • Must be flexible to work various shifts, weekends, or irregular shifts.

Employees should apply through Workday
M/F Disabled and Vet Equal Opportunity Employer
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.
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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