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Southwest Ramp Agent Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southwest Airlines

Ramp Agent - SJC

San Jose, CA · On-site

$20.63/hr

... Ramp Agent position at SJC within the last 12 months.*** Pay & Benefits: Pay of $20.63 per hour ... Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) ...

Southwest Airlines

Ramp Agent - DAL (Part-Time)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$20.63/hr

... Ramp Agent position at DAL within the last 12 months.*** Pay & Benefits: Pay of $20.63 per hour ... Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) ...

Southwest Airlines

Ramp Agent - ALB (Part-Time)

Albany, NY · On-site

$20.63/hr

... Ramp Agent position at ALB within the last 12 months.*** Pay & Benefits: Pay of $20.63 per hour ... Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) ...

Southwest Airlines

Ramp Agent - DEN (Part-Time)

Denver, CO · On-site

$20.72/hr

... Ramp Agent position at DEN within the last 12 months.*** Pay & Benefits: Pay of $20.72 per hour ... Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) ...

Southwest Air

Ramp Agent - ALB (Part-Time)

Albany, NY · On-site

$20.63/hr

Ramp Agent We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal ... Ramp Agents at Southwest work outside to guide planes, move bags and cargo, help with de-icing ...

New

ERMC

3262-RDU-Southwest-Cabin Agent/PM

Morrisville, NC · On-site

Performs FOD walks in the ramp area between flights. * Marshal aircraft's during arrival and ... Qualifications for Cabin Agent * Able to work in extreme conditions, such as hot and cold weather ...

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Southwest Ramp Agent information

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$10

$16

$21

How much do southwest ramp agent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for southwest ramp agent in the United States is $16.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Southwest ramp agent?

Southwest Ramp Agents are ground operations employees responsible for handling aircraft on the ground at airports. Their duties include loading and unloading baggage and cargo, marshaling aircraft, ensuring proper placement of ground equipment, and performing safety checks. They work in all weather conditions and play a critical role in ensuring flights depart on time. Ramp Agents must communicate effectively with other airport staff and follow strict safety procedures. This job requires physical stamina and the ability to work as part of a team.

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

To thrive as a Southwest Ramp Agent, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols, often requiring a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with ground service equipment, radio communication systems, and baggage handling procedures is typically necessary. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and adaptability to changing weather or flight schedules are vital soft skills. These abilities are essential for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring safety, and providing excellent service in a fast-paced airport environment.

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

Southwest Ramp Agents often work in fast-paced, outdoor environments where weather conditions and tight schedules can pose challenges. Managing multiple flights simultaneously, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and handling heavy baggage are typical aspects of the role. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication with team members, and using proper lifting techniques can help mitigate these challenges. Regular training and a strong team culture at Southwest also support Ramp Agents in adapting to changing conditions and continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Southwest Ramp Agent vs Southwest Baggage Handler?

AspectSouthwest Ramp AgentSouthwest Baggage Handler
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; safety and baggage handling training
Work EnvironmentAirport tarmac, aircraft, baggage areasBaggage claim areas, tarmac, airport terminals
Employer & IndustrySouthwest Airlines, airline industrySouthwest Airlines, airline industry
Job FocusAircraft marshalling, cargo and baggage loadingBaggage handling, loading/unloading luggage

Both roles are essential in airline operations, often overlapping in work environment and employer. The main difference is that Southwest Ramp Agents focus on aircraft marshalling and cargo loading, while Southwest Baggage Handlers specialize in managing passenger luggage. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right position within the airline industry.

Is a Southwest Ramp Agent a good job?

A Southwest Ramp Agent is responsible for loading and unloading aircraft, guiding planes on the tarmac, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. The job typically requires physical stamina, attention to safety, and may involve shift work, including nights and weekends. It can offer opportunities for entry-level employment in the airline industry with potential for advancement.

Is it hard to get hired as a Southwest Ramp Agent?

Getting hired as a Southwest Ramp Agent typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, physical ability to perform manual tasks, and a willingness to work in outdoor and fast-paced environments. The hiring process often involves background checks, drug screening, and training, but the position is generally accessible to candidates with relevant skills and a good work ethic.
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Southwest Ramp Agent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Southwest Ramp Agent job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,748 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Ramp Agent - SJC

Southwest Airlines

San Jose, CA • On-site

$20.63/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Southwest Airlines rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 252 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 26 rated airlines

Job description

Department:
Ground Operations
Our Company Promise
We are committed to provide our Employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of Southwest Airlines. Above all, Employees will be provided the same concern, respect, and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every Southwest Customer.
Job Description:
*** For external applicants only:
(1.) Southwest Airlines will consider your interest for this position if you are currently a resident of the State of California.
(2.) Southwest Airlines will not consider your interest for this position if you have been interviewed by phone, virtually, and/or inperson
and not selected for the Ramp Agent position at SJC within the last 12 months.***
Pay & Benefits:
Pay of $20.63 per hour*, with the opportunity for future increase per applicable collective bargaining agreement wage scale based on time in position. Opportunities for overtime and shift premiums.
Benefits you'll love:
  • Fly for free, as a privilege, on any open seat on all Southwest flights (your eligible dependents too)
  • Southwest will help fund your Retirement Savings Plan, which includes a dollar for-dollar 401(k) Company match contribution up to 10% of your eligible earnings**
  • Potential for annual profit-sharing contribution in the Southwest Retirement Savings Plan-when Southwest profits, you profit***
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your eligible dependents
  • Southwest offers health plan coverage options that start from the first day of employment. You'll have 30 days to select and enroll in your health plan, and coverage will be retroactively available to your first day of employment.
  • Explore more benefits you'll love: https://careers.southwestair.com/benefits

Looking for a role where you'll be at the heart of every successful departure? Ramp Agents at Southwest work outside to guide planes, move bags and cargo, help with de-icing planes during cold weather, and help keep our operation running smoothly. It's a busy, hands-on job where working together helps flights leave on time. Whether you're an aviation pro or just starting to learn about the industry, you'll gain valuable experience and learn new things in this role - all while helping Southwest run safely and on schedule. See what a day on the ramp looks like: swa.is/DayOnTheRamp
Additional details
  • This role is part of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which means pay, schedules, and other job details are set through an agreement with the labor union.

  • Work schedules are based on seniority and may include early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays. There may be times when mandatory overtime is required to support flight operations, but there are also opportunities to trade shifts and find a schedule that works for you.

  • U.S. citizenship or current authorization to work in the U.S. required and no current or future work authorization sponsorship available.

  • Learn more about becoming a Ramp Agent and check out the FAQs: careers.southwestair.com/southwest-ramp-agents

We're committed to fair hiring practices and to making employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Provide friendly service to and maintains positive relationships with all internal and external Customers
  • Work in a cooperative spirit to ensure the success of our Company
  • Responsible for providing legendary Customer service to people desiring to travel, use cargo or baggage service by servicing aircraft at ramps and terminals
  • Load, unload, service, guide, and direct Company Aircraft
  • Receive and record Customer baggage, air freight, mail and company materials as required
  • Handle all aspects of loading, stowing and unloading baggage, cargo airmail, air freight, ballast and company materials according to a predetermined plan received either electronically or manually from an Operations Agent. Submits, either electronically or manually, a Cargo Bin Loading Slip (CBLS) to an Operations Agent
  • Pick up, deliver, and transport cargo and baggage to and from aircraft and prepares records in connection with these responsibilities
  • Warehouses, weighs, stacks, picks up and delivers air cargo, checks air cargo handled against accompanying forms to identify any mishandling or discrepancies and corrects routine errors
  • Safeguards Customers' baggage, air cargo, air mail, and COMAT from weather, loss, theft, damage and/or destruction
  • Use jetway stairs frequently to carry items checked at the gate to the aircraft bin
  • Review cargo forms for accuracy and corrects forms as necessary
  • Perform interior aircraft cabin cleaning by hand, including sweeping upholstery, cleans windows, galleys and disposal containers in accordance with applicable paperwork
  • Clean and service lavatories, operate lavatory carts and dispose of contents in accordance with established procedures
  • May perform duties of a Provisioning Agent, including stocking aircraft cabin interiors for flights with equipment and supplies such as literature, disposal, and refuse containers and commissary items in accordance with applicable paperwork. Maintains an inventory of such items and supplies
  • Transport cabin and cleaning equipment between aircraft storage area
  • Operate and/or drive motorized equipment, such as belt loaders, air start units, lift trucks, push back tugs, bag cart, lavatory cart and de-icers
  • Manually pushes and pulls push carts and containers
  • Work in the vicinity of and between passenger terminals, hangars and airfreight facilities, both indoors and outdoors
  • May be exposed to a wide variety of weather condition, jet and machinery noises, fumes, dirt and dust for extended periods of time
  • Completes forms and paperwork connected with work assignments according to established procedures, and enters such information in to the Company's information system as required
  • Duties vary by size and organization of station.
  • Provide friendly service to all Co-workers and Customers. Has routine contact with people outside of the Company such as delivery agents, shippers, etc.
  • Must be able to meet any physical ability requirements listed on this description
  • May perform other job duties as directed by Employee's Leaders

Knowledge, Skills and Responsibilities
  • Ability to work well with others as part of a team, and work under stressful situations
  • Must be able to satisfactorily complete Ramp Agent training program with a 90% or greater average and an evaluation period
  • Ability to read documents, follow instructions, learn and understand ramp operations procedures, rules and regulations
  • Must be aware of hazardous situations and be able to handle emergencies as needed
  • Must work under tight time constraints to accomplish quick turns of aircraft
  • Must meet all grooming standards as outlined in the Ground Operations Employee Handbook and the Labor Agreement
  • Must be able to be alert to moving vehicles or aircraft and use radio equipment. Must be able to communicate information and instructions verbally and/or via radio equipment

Education
  • No education requirement

Experience
  • No experience requirement

Licensing/Certification
  • Must possess a valid state motor vehicle operator's license
  • Must be able to obtain a SIDA badge and meet all local airport requirements
  • May be required by Station Leadership to obtain a Customs Seal and meet all requirements to work international flights

Physical Abilities
  • Must be able to lift and move items of 70 pounds and/or more on a regular basis and repetitively lift weights of 40 to 50 pounds on raised surfaces
  • Must be able to climb, bend, kneel, crawl, and stoop on a frequent basis and for extended periods
  • Must be able to work in cramped or high places
  • Must be able to carry heavy items up and down jetway stairs
  • Must maintain the ability to wear prescribed uniforms

Other Qualifications
  • Must maintain a well-groomed appearance per Company appearance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be able to comply with Company attendance standards as described in established guidelines
  • Ability to work shift work and/or overtime

*The pay amount doesn't guarantee employment for any particular period. **401(k) Company match contributions are subject to the plan's vesting schedule. Match contributions may vary based on the position.
***Profit-sharing contributions are subject to the Retirement Savings Plan vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company.
Pay Rate:
$20.63
Southwest Airlines is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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