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On Call Airport Ramp Controller Jobs in Washington, DC

IAD Ramp Manager

Dulles, VA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

... such as Airport Management, Customs, Immigration * Establish strong leadership within all ... Ability to be "on call" 24/7 for emergencies * The nature of this position demands discretion, good ...

IAD Ramp Manager

Dulles, VA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

... such as Airport Management, Customs, Immigration * Establish strong leadership within all ... Ability to be "on call" 24/7 for emergencies * The nature of this position demands discretion, good ...

Security Officer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$19.36/hr

Controlling access to secure airport areas * Verifying personal identification and access badges ... It is an active position, which requires moving around the airport (offices, gates, ramp, etc.

Security Officer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$19.36/hr

Controlling access to secure airport areas * Verifying personal identification and access badges ... It is an active position, which requires moving around the airport (offices, gates, ramp, etc.

Security Officer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$19.36/hr

Controlling access to secure airport areas * Verifying personal identification and access badges ... It is an active position, which requires moving around the airport (offices, gates, ramp, etc.

... of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation. A global company, headquartered in ... That means owning the controllership, building the financial infrastructure, and driving the ERP ...

On Call Airport Ramp Controller information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$18

$23

How much do on call airport ramp controller jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for on call airport ramp controller in Washington, DC is $18.92, 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 does an on call airport ramp controller do?

An On Call Airport Ramp Controller is responsible for coordinating and managing aircraft movements and ground operations on the airport ramp or apron area. They ensure that planes are safely guided to and from gates, oversee loading and unloading of baggage, and communicate with pilots, ground crews, and air traffic controllers to prevent collisions and delays. Being on call means they work as needed, often during peak times or to cover for absent staff. Their role is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency in airport ground operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an on call airport ramp controller?

To thrive as an On Call Airport Ramp Controller, you need strong situational awareness, knowledge of airport ground operations, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio communication systems, airport safety protocols, and ramp management software is often required. Excellent communication, quick decision-making, and teamwork are vital soft skills for coordinating diverse ground crews and responding to dynamic conditions. These skills ensure safe, efficient aircraft movements and minimize delays or incidents on the ramp.

What are some typical challenges faced by on call airport ramp controllers, and how can they be managed effectively?

On Call Airport Ramp Controllers often face challenges such as managing unpredictable schedules, handling sudden changes in flight operations, and ensuring safe coordination among multiple ground crews under tight time constraints. Effective communication, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of airport safety protocols are key to managing these challenges. Building strong relationships with ramp agents, supervisors, and pilots also helps ensure smooth operations, even during peak or irregular hours.

What is the difference between On Call Airport Ramp Controller vs Ground Operations Agent?

AspectOn Call Airport Ramp ControllerGround Operations Agent
CredentialsTypically requires FAA certification and safety trainingUsually requires safety and operational training, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentAirport ramp, coordinating aircraft movements and ground supportAirport ground area, assisting with baggage, cargo, and aircraft servicing
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, ground handling companies, airportsAirlines, ground handling services, airports

Both roles operate in airport ground environments and may require similar certifications. The main difference is that On Call Airport Ramp Controllers focus on coordinating aircraft movements and safety on the ramp, often on an as-needed basis, while Ground Operations Agents handle baggage, cargo, and aircraft servicing tasks. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right role based on their skills and career goals.

How to become an on call airport ramp controller?

To become an on call airport ramp controller, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant experience in airport operations or logistics, and certification such as the Airport Operations Certificate. Strong communication skills, attention to safety procedures, and the ability to work flexible hours are also important for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Airport Ramp Controller jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Airport Ramp Controller jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to On Call Airport Ramp Controller jobs in Washington, DC?

For On Call Airport Ramp Controller jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching On Call Airport Ramp Controller jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for On Call Airport Ramp Controller jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various On Call Airport Ramp Controller job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,356 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

On Call Ramp Agent - BWI Airport

PrimeFlight Aviation Services

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Load and unload baggage, cargo, and mail onto aircraft with accuracy

  • Operate ground service equipment and marshal aircraft to and from gates

  • Ensure the safe movement of aircraft on the ground and adhere to safety protocols


Job description

On call positions, shifts and work schedule may vary

LIFTING BAGS, GUIDING PLANES, LAUNCHING JOURNEYS - NOW HIRING RAMP AGENTS!

Interested in working in aviation? Are you looking for a job with stability and growth opportunities? If you are looking for a career with growth potential and work well in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, we want to speak to you!

WHY WORK FOR PRIMEFLIGHT?

  • Enjoy benefits like 401(k) with matching, health, dental, vision, and life insurance, paid time off, growth opportunities, and more (*Benefits may vary based on eligibility)
  • We are committed to being a leading provider of commercial services within the aviation industry
  • Our teams focus on maintaining a positive working environment and treating all team members with respect
  • With more than 200 locations across the world, we offer opportunities for career progression

SUMMARY OVERVIEW

The Ramp Agent is responsible for the loading and unloading of baggage, cargo, and mail as applicable onto the aircraft, along with guiding the aircraft to and from gates. You will be ensuring the secure and prompt handling of aircraft on the ground, in compliance with safety standards and airline guidelines. The duties extend to providing support for various ground operations, playing an important role in maintaining the seamless flow of airport services. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Repetitive loading and unloading of baggage, cargo, and mail as applicable onto aircraft with accuracy  
  • Operate ground service equipment such as pushbacks, tugs, belt loaders, and baggage carts 
  • Read and analyze aircraft load sheets, checked baggage tags, and cargo labels  
  • Marshalling aircraft to and from gates 
  • Ensure safe movement of aircraft on the ground 
  • Adhere to strict safety protocols and airline regulations 
  • Work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment 
  • Lift heavy objects in varying weather conditions 
  • Communicate effectively with team members and airline personnel 
  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of work areas 
  • Perform routine inspections of equipment and report any issues 
  • Follow standard operating procedures for ramp operations 
  • Adapt to the changing of flight schedules and priorities 
  • Exemplify PrimeFlight customer service and safety standards
  • Perform any additional duties as assigned by management

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 18 years of age or older
  • Eligible to work in the United States
  • Must have a valid state-issued driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
  • Communicate effectively in English (reading, writing, speaking)
  • Ability to access and interpret information in print and electronically, including the use of electronic devices including IPads/Tablets, Computers, and Mobile Devices
  •  Effectively communicate with colleagues and clients, both in-person and through electronic means
  • Pass a background check and drug screen
  •  Eligibility to acquire needed credentials and clearances (FAA, TSA, Port Authority, U.S. Customs and U.S. Postal- as applicable)
  • Airlines are 24/7, so we need our team members to be flexible to work various shifts including nights, weekends and holidays

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential requirement satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the work environment, knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential requirements.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY/WORKING CONDITIONS MAY INCLUDE:

  • Ability to lift up to 70 pounds
  • Prolonged standing and walking in an indoor/outdoor environment as applicable
  • May need to reach with arms and grasp with hands
  •  May need to push, pull
  •  May need to crawl and crouch, at times, in confined tight spaces
  •  May need to bend, stretch, squat, kneel
  •  May need to climb and work at elevated heights
  • Exposure to moderate and at times high noise levels
  • Exposure to outdoor elements
  • Be able to hear and respond to the spoken voice and to audible alarms
  • Tasks may involve repetitive motions of the arms, wrists, hands and/or fingers
  • Specific vision abilities required for this job include: Close vision (clear vision at 20 inches or less); distance vision (clear vision at 20 feet or more); peripheral vision (ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or to the left and right while eyes are fixed on a given point); depth perception (three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and spatial relationships); ability to adjust focus (ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus)  

The pay rate listed on this post is what the company reasonably expects to pay for this position. However, individual compensation may vary based on factors including qualifications, skills, competencies, education, and experience.

PrimeFlight Aviation Services, Inc. is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants and employees are considered and evaluated for positions at PrimeFlight Aviation Service, Inc. without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, color, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, uniform service member and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state/province, and local laws.

SMS/Text Communications

By providing your mobile number and opting in, you consent to receive SMS messages from PrimeFlight related solely to recruiting and employment opportunities, such as job postings, application status updates, or interview scheduling. Consent is voluntary and not a condition of applying for employment. Message frequency may vary. Standard message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. Numbers will be used in accordance with this Privacy Policy and not shared for marketing without consent.

 


PrimeFlight Aviation Services logo

About PrimeFlight Aviation Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PrimeFlight Aviation Services, based in Sugar Land, TX, US, is a leading name in the aviation support industry. The company is particularly recognized for offering high-quality ground handling services, aircraft cleaning, de-icing, and wheelchair services. With a history rooted back in 1964, PrimeFlight has a strong reputation built upon consistently delivering unmatched aviation services. The company operates with a strong commitment to safety, innovation, integrity, and service excellence as its defining core values. Its mission is to provide solutions that drive customer value and operational efficiency, delivering to clients, an impressive service level that redefines the industry standards. Some of its notable achievements include being a preferred partner of some of the world's largest airlines and an exemplary safety record.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sugar Land, TX, US

Year founded

2001

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