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Junior Aircraft Load Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Load Planner

Lihue, HI · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

This critical role plays a significant part in maintaining aircraft performance, weight limitations, and compliance with safety regulations. The Load Planner collaborates closely with flight crews ...

Ensures that all cargo and baggage is safely loaded onto the aircraft in the most efficient manner ... Load Planner/Weight and Balance Certification * TSA - Cargo Security Awareness * TSA - Acceptance ...

This exciting opportunity will develop, prepare and certify mission plans for routine test, peacetime and wartime operations, training (aircraft and simulator), exercise, and routine planning ...

Ensure the accuracy of aircraft load planning and that it meets all safety-of-flight requirements, including weight & balance, load limits, compressible cargo, and aircraft tipping avoidance.

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Junior Aircraft Load Planner information

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How much do junior aircraft load planner jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior aircraft load planner in the United States is $21.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Aircraft Load Planner, and why are they important?

A Junior Aircraft Load Planner needs a solid understanding of weight and balance principles, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or relevant aviation coursework. Familiarity with load planning software, airline cargo systems, and regulatory guidelines (like IATA or FAA) is important. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help coordinate with ground crews and flight operations. These abilities ensure aircraft are safely loaded, regulatory requirements are met, and efficient operations are maintained.

What does a Junior Aircraft Load Planner do?

A Junior Aircraft Load Planner is responsible for assisting in the planning and coordination of cargo and baggage loading on aircraft. They ensure that the weight and balance of the aircraft comply with safety regulations and that cargo is distributed efficiently. This involves working closely with ground staff, using specialized software, and following strict procedures to optimize space and maintain flight safety. Junior planners typically work under the supervision of more experienced load planners and may also help prepare documentation and communicate with flight crews.

What is the difference between Junior Aircraft Load Planner vs Aircraft Load Coordinator?

AspectJunior Aircraft Load PlannerAircraft Load Coordinator
CertificationsFAA/FAA-approved certifications, if applicableSimilar certifications, often required
Work EnvironmentAirlines, cargo carriers, or freight companiesAirlines, ground handling, or logistics providers
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in load planning, ensuring weight and balance complianceOverseeing load operations, coordinating with ground staff
Experience LevelEntry-level or junior roleEntry to mid-level, more operational focus

The Junior Aircraft Load Planner and Aircraft Load Coordinator roles share similar environments and certifications but differ mainly in responsibility scope. The Junior Aircraft Load Planner typically assists in load planning tasks, while the Aircraft Load Coordinator manages load operations and coordination. Both roles are essential in airline logistics, with the junior position serving as an entry point for those starting in aircraft load planning.

What are the typical challenges faced by a Junior Aircraft Load Planner when coordinating with ground operations and flight crews?

As a Junior Aircraft Load Planner, one common challenge is ensuring clear and timely communication with both ground operations teams and flight crews to accurately distribute cargo and balance the aircraft. Unexpected changes, such as last-minute cargo additions or weather delays, require quick adjustments to load plans while maintaining strict safety and regulatory standards. Effective collaboration and attention to detail are essential to prevent errors that could impact flight performance or schedules, making adaptability and teamwork key aspects of the role.
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Infographic showing various Junior Aircraft Load Planner job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,173 per year, or $21.2 per hour.
GSC Aircraft Load Planner

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Trego-Dugan Aviation rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 64 rated aviation services


Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

This is a critical safety role at the heart of our cargo operations. This dual-function position is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure, and efficient movement of cargo through the network. The GSC/Load Planner serves as the station’s primary Ground Security Coordinator, maintaining compliance with TSA regulations, operator security programs, and applicable security directives. In addition, the role performs aircraft load planning functions to ensure proper weight distribution, balance, and cargo securement for all assigned flights.

The role requires an individual who can seamlessly transition between security oversight and operational load planning duties, maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance in both domains.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ground Security Coordinator (GSC) Functions

  • Perform security oversight duties, including inspecting aircraft access points, verifying cargo loading integrity, and ensuring compliance with the operator’s security program and TSA regulations.

  • Coordinate security efforts with ground personnel, flight crews, law enforcement, and TSA representatives; serve as the primary security liaison at the station level.

  • Monitor cargo handling and loading operations to ensure adherence to safety protocols, ULD securement procedures, and standard operating practices.

Load Planning / Weight & Balance Functions

  • Develop and implement load plans for aircraft to ensure optimal weight distribution, balance, and compliance with regulatory and air carrier standards.

  • Prepare and enter loading instructions, manifests, and load sheets into operational software systems.

  • Collaborate with ground operations, flight crews, warehouse teams, and other departments to communicate load plans and coordinate activities.

  • Ensure accurate record-keeping of cargo loads and file all post-departure paperwork in compliance with air carrier policies and regulations.

  • Utilize aircraft load planning software and tools to generate loading diagrams, reports, and documentation.

General / Administrative Functions

  • Prepare reports and presentations using Microsoft Word, Excel, and other operational tools.

  • Prepare and coordinate information for internal use and distribution across departments.

  • Stay updated on industry regulations, security bulletins, and best practices related to aircraft loading, weight management, and cargo security.

  • Complete all required training.

  • Only complete tasks for which you are fully trained.

  • Report any safety hazard or incident immediately.

  • Perform additional duties as assigned by station management to support safe and efficient cargo operations.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS:Required:
  • High school diploma, GED, or international equivalent.

  • Load Planner / Weight and Balance Certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days of hire).

  • TSA Cargo Security Awareness training (or ability to obtain prior to performing security duties).

  • TSA Acceptance training (or ability to obtain prior to performing security duties).

  • Previous experience in aircraft load planning, cargo operations, ground security coordination, or a related aviation field.

  • Proficiency in using load planning software, weight and balance tools, and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).

  • Effective oral and written communication, problem-solving, basic research, and time management skills.

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain an airport security badge and a customs seal as required by the station or gateway.

Preferred:
  • Existing GSC/PSA/LP certification with ATI (Air Transport International) or ABX Air.

  • Knowledge of aviation regulations, weight and balance principles, and ULD handling/securement procedures.

  • Experience with cargo management systems and electronic load planning platforms.

  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks efficiently.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • The position requires working in both office and field environments, including on the tarmac during loading and unloading operations, and cargo warehouses.

  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, aircraft noise, and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) operations is routine.

  • High attention to detail and the ability to maintain focus in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment are essential.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs regularly.

  • Must be able to stand for extended periods during shifts.

  • Must be able to work in confined spaces as needed.

KEY COMPETENCIES:
  • Attention to Detail — Ensures accuracy in load plans, manifests, and security documentation where errors can have serious safety consequences.

  • Safety Mindset — Consistently prioritizes safety in all decisions, from cargo securement to security compliance and aircraft loading.

  • Cross-Functional Communication — Effectively coordinates with flight crews, ground teams, TSA, and airline personnel to keep operations running smoothly.

  • Composure Under Pressure — Maintains calm and sound judgment in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment with shifting priorities.

  • Regulatory Knowledge — Understands and applies FAA, TSA, and air carrier standards to daily operations with confidence and consistency.


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