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Ramp Service Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Ramp Agent

Washington, DC · On-site

$19/hr

As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and ... Job Summary Ramp agents provide all necessary and required under-wing ground support services as ...

Ramp Agents are expected to keep both the company goals and customer expectations in mind when ... Operate motorized service vehicles and equipment * Guide and park aircraft * Perform cabin ...

Ramp Agent - Full Time

Dulles, VA · On-site

$20 - $21/hr

Perform customer service activities such as helping customers with aircraft scheduling and fueling ... Required Skills Ramp AgentRamp Agent Qualifications * High school diploma or GED certificate * 18 ...

Ramp Agents are expected to keep both the company goals and customer expectations in mind when ... Operate motorized service vehicles and equipment * Guide and park aircraft * Perform cabin ...

Ramp Agent

Washington, DC · On-site

$19/hr

As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and ... Job Summary Ramp agents provide all necessary and required under-wing ground support services as ...

Ramp Agent -IAD 13:30PM-17:30PM

Sterling, VA · On-site

$15.25 - $18.75/hr

M. shift Requirements and Description Unifi has decades of experience in the aviation services ... Operate ramp equipment such as stairs and bridges. Benefits: * Flight Privileges: Offered after 30 ...

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Ramp Service information

See Washington salary details

$11

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How much do ramp service jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for ramp service in Washington 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 is a ramp service agent?

Ramp service agents, also known as ramp agents or baggage handlers, are airport ground crew members responsible for handling luggage, cargo, and aircraft servicing on the tarmac. Their duties include loading and unloading baggage, guiding planes during arrival and departure, operating ground support equipment, and ensuring the safe movement of aircraft on the ground. Ramp agents play a vital role in maintaining on-time flight schedules and ensuring safety standards are followed. They often work outdoors in various weather conditions and must adhere to strict security and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ramp service agent?

To thrive as a Ramp Service Agent, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with many employers requiring a valid driver's license. Familiarity with baggage handling systems, ground support equipment, and safety protocols is crucial, and OSHA or airport-specific certifications can be advantageous. Strong teamwork, clear communication, and the ability to work under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient aircraft turnaround and maintain smooth airport operations.

What are some common challenges faced by ramp service agents, and how can they be managed?

Ramp Service Agents often work in fast-paced environments where they must handle tight turnaround times, inclement weather, and heavy lifting. These challenges require attention to safety protocols, effective teamwork, and good communication skills to ensure baggage is loaded and unloaded efficiently and aircraft are serviced on time. Employers usually provide thorough training and support, but being proactive about safety and staying adaptable can help you succeed and advance in this role.

What is the difference between Ramp Service vs Baggage Handler?

AspectRamp ServiceBaggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety training
Work EnvironmentAirport tarmac, cargo areasAirport baggage claim, tarmac
Job ResponsibilitiesLoading/unloading cargo, aircraft servicingHandling and transporting baggage
Industry UsageAirlines, cargo carriersAirlines, ground handling services

Ramp Service and Baggage Handlers both work in airport ground operations, often overlapping in work environment and required skills. Ramp Service roles typically involve aircraft servicing and cargo handling, while Baggage Handlers focus on managing passenger luggage. Both positions are essential for smooth airport operations and require safety training and physical stamina.

Are ramp service agents still getting paid?

Yes, ramp service agents are typically paid for their work hours, which may include shift differentials for night or weekend shifts. Compensation varies by employer and location but generally involves hourly wages, and some positions may offer benefits or overtime pay.

Do ramp service agents make good money?

Ramp service agents typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and employer, with entry-level positions often paying minimum wage and experienced agents earning higher rates. Overtime, tips, and benefits can also contribute to overall compensation. The job may include physical work and shift schedules, which can impact earnings.

Is it hard to get hired as a ramp service?

Getting hired as a ramp service worker can be competitive, but many employers seek candidates with a high school diploma, good physical fitness, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Prior experience or certifications in safety procedures can improve chances, and the job often involves shift work and physical labor.

What do ramp service employees do?

Ramp service employees are responsible for loading and unloading aircraft, guiding planes on the tarmac, and handling baggage and cargo. They operate equipment such as conveyor belts and forklifts and work in outdoor, fast-paced environments often requiring safety training and physical stamina.

What are popular job titles related to Ramp Service jobs in Washington?

For Ramp Service jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ramp Service job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,356 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Airline Agent Ramp Service

Dulles, VA • On-site


TREGO DUGAN AVIATION OF GRAND ISLAND INC
Aviation • 1 - 5K employees

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 67 rated aviation services

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Respectful managers


$19.35/hr

Part-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays.  Hours will vary based upon flight schedules. 

Number of weekly hours may increase or decrease due to seasonal flight changes.

 

General Purpose of Job:

The Ramp Service Agent is responsible for handling customer luggage, including loading and unloading baggage on and off the aircraft, marshaling in and pushing back the aircraft, operating ground service equipment (GSE), meeting arriving flights and servicing departing flights, assisting customers with special needs, assisting customer service agents, as needed, and any other assigned duties. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Perform related duties as assigned or as the situation dictates, i.e., ramp, commissary, and aircraft cleaning activities.
  • Move luggage and comail of various weights and dimensions to and from aircraft and airport luggage receiving area.
  • Load and unload baggage, luggage, and comail.
  • Operate ground equipment, including tugs and belt loaders.
  • Marshal aircraft to and from gates.
  • Provide proper handling of baggage requiring special care.
  • Service aircraft lavatories.
  • Perform aircraft interior cleaning.
  • Responsible for aircraft security searches and commissary security searches.
  • Ensure ramp areas are safe and free of FOD and that all ground equipment is maintained correctly.
  • Follow safety regulations, including properly using ground equipment and wearing proper safety items.
  • Able to communicate using a two-way radio.

Competency/Behavioral Requirements:

  • Be pleasant with others on the job and display a good-natured, cooperative attitude
  • Be reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfill obligations.
  • Attention to Detail
  • Maintain composure, keep emotions in check, control anger, and avoid aggressive behavior even in difficult situations
  • Accept criticism and deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations, be open to change (positive or negative), and to considerable variety in the workplace
  • Willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges
  • Be sensitive to others' needs and feelings, and be understanding and helpful on the job
  • Abiding by TDA and Airline policies and procedures, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done

Physical Demands:

Must be able to work in a high-pressure environment.  Must be able to carry 70-pound suitcase from the floor to 18 inches and carry 70-pound suitcase in front of you with both hands for up to 25 feet; must have physical dexterity sufficient to perform repetitive tasks and motions, including bending at the waist and knees, squatting, kneeling, crawling, twisting and sustaining those positions for extended amounts of time.  Must have sufficient vision and ability to safely perform the position's essential functions. 

Work Environment: 

Airport environment: Indoors and Outdoors. Extreme outdoor conditions where extreme temperature ranges may be encountered. 

Other Requirements and Qualifications:

Education: High School diploma or equivalent

Experience: No experience necessary, will train

Knowledge: Basic computer skills

 Must be at least 18 years old.

Must have a valid driver’s license

Must pass a ten (10) year background check and pre-employment drug test



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