If you are looking for an
opportunity to break into airline or airport jobs, then this could be just what
you are looking for.
Airports often have airline baggage and cargo
handler jobs open, and it is a good way to get started – but it will require
some hard work. Once you have the job, you can go from there to other job
openings.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics is currently
expecting the number of passengers and cargo volume to greatly increase within
the next few years. In fact, as long as the economy holds out, they expect it
to almost triple from what it is now. This means that now is a good time to get
into jobs that can provide a great future for you. Full-time and part-time jobs
are available in some places.
Job Responsibilities
Working in airline baggage and cargo handler
jobs will mean different duties at different airports. Generally, the job
responsibilities will be more diversified at smaller airports, which may
include working at the ticket counter. Among the many duties that you can
expect, cargo handlers will typically load, unload, and service aircraft
between flights, which means cleaning the aircraft and lavoratories, the
windshield, and de-icing the plane. Cargo handlers must load passenger baggage,
mail, food supplies, commercial freight, or any other cargo going on the
flight. As part of their loading and unloading duties, handlers often operate
machinery such as forklifts, tugs, baggage conveyors, and various freight and
baggage vehicles.
At smaller airports they can expect to meet the
plane, communicate with the pilot to bring it to a parking spot, and possibly
tow the aircraft, too. They may also provide shuttle service to and from the
plane, hotels, car rentals, restaurants, etc. Since this position means it
often deals with pilots and some passengers, strong communication abilities are
needed.
Job Requirements
The main task in airline baggage and cargo handler jobs is to put
it on the aircraft, or take it off. This is strenuous work and requires that
the individual be strong and able to repeatedly lift up to 70 pounds or more.
It may also involve taking this much weight up or down aircraft steps, too.
They must be willing to work in all types of weather year around, which can be
extreme in some places. The environment is often noisy, and they will be under
frequent deadline pressure. They must also be able to follow safety standards
for driving and moving heavy objects around expensive aircraft without damaging
them.
In smaller airports, a baggage and cargo handler
may help check in baggage by tagging it with bar code information to help track
it. They may also assist passengers to find their luggage and file complaints
or damage reports on computer. Cargo handlers may also receive cargo, tag it,
and make sure that it gets put on the right plane. They also must ensure that
there is enough space on a plane for a shipment, and must ensure that the
aircraft is properly balanced.
Training & Degrees
As far as education goes, you must have a high
school education or its equivalent, but a higher degree may be required at a
larger airport. You will need to be at least 18 years old, and have a driver’s
license with a good driving record. Cargo agents may need to have
a special licence to drive large trucks and other vehicles. Since
this is an entry level job, the airline will usually provide training – which
is probably at the airport, but may be at another location.
All airport employees must be able to pass a
background check that will go back at least 10 years. Passing a drug test is
another requirement. You will be required to wear an airline uniform and
maintain a good appearance at all times. Some airlines have special height-to-weight
limitations and only offer certain size uniforms, so staying fit and trim is
important. Since passengers often travel on weekends and holidays, you can
expect to work both, as well as during any shift – possibly with overtime. Some
airports have employees working eleven hours in four days, with three days off.
Salary & Benefits
The pay and benefits for airline baggage and
cargo handler jobs is typically very good. You can expect benefits such as
medical, dental and vision insurance, some life insurance and disability,
vacation pay, sick days with pay, a retirement plan, possibly long-term care,
and more. At some airlines, you may also get flight benefits, too.
Average starting pay is between $9 and $11 per
hour, but there may be considerable overtime. There are opportunities for
advancement in this field, particularly at larger airports – which are often
unionized.
Quick Summary:
- Airports are often hiring baggage and cargo handlers.
- It is hard but steady work.
- There is room for advancement.
- The job comes with great benefits.
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