IAD Ramp Loader Operator

Swissport International AG•Dulles, VA

9h•Onsite

About The Position

As a global leader in aviation services, Swissport provides Ground Handling, Cargo Handling, and Passenger Services to over 300 million passengers annually. Our mission is simple – “To provide the aviation industry with consistent and tailor-made solutions around the globe, for a better customer experience.” We believe that our people are what differentiates us from our competition. At Swissport, we are driven by our core values of Show You Care, Do the Right Things and Win as a Team, and we are currently seeking dedicated individuals, who align with these values, to join our team at various locations across the globe. The Ramp Loader Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient handling of aircraft, baggage, cargo, and ground support equipment during arrival and departure operations. Key duties include marshalling aircraft, loading and unloading passenger luggage and air cargo, operating a range of ground support equipment, and ensuring proper weight distribution and load balancing to maintain flight safety. The role also involves servicing aircraft water and lavatory systems, inspecting ramp areas for debris, and supporting aircraft push-back and towing operations. This position requires strict adherence to airport safety, security, and FOD prevention protocols, as well as close coordination with ground crew and flight personnel to ensure on-time departures. The expected pay rate is $18.50/hour with a $1.00/hour premium differential. Full-time employees are offered a range of health and wellness benefits as well as 401(k) with company match paid vacation time, sick time, and company paid holidays.

Requirements

Valid driver's license
Good communication skills
Language skills
Must be able to work in inclement weather
Flexible to work on various shifts 32-40 hours a week (days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays)
Excellent Health & Safety awareness
Ability to lift heavy objects that could reach 70 pounds (32 kilograms)
Ability to work effectively as part of a team under time-sensitive conditions
Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions and in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Previous ramp experience is a plus
Basic understanding of aviation safety and security regulations is beneficial

Responsibilities

Marshall aircraft during arrival and departure
Unload passenger luggage and air cargo, bulk and/or containers/pallets, onto carts and/or dollies
Unload wheelchairs and child strollers and deliver to designated location
Provide special handling of luggage/cargo as required/directed
Deliver passenger luggage to claim area and unload onto conveyor system
Deliver air cargo to appropriate recipient
Drive and/or operate ground support equipment to include tow tractors, tow bars, belt loaders, container loaders, baggage tugs, water/lavatory service trucks, aircraft ground power units, aircraft air start units, air stairs, aircraft de-icing units, baggage carts, cargo dollies, and passenger vans
Operate Equipment: Drive and maneuvers high loaders, conveyor belts, baggage tugs, and forklifts
Collect and load mail, live animals, wheelchairs, and child strollers onto aircraft
Handle Cargo & Baggage: Load, secure, and unload passenger luggage, mail, and freight in aircraft cargo holds
Balance Weights: Ensure correct weight distribution and load balancing to maintain flight safety
Inspect Shipments: Check cargo tags, verify manifests, and inspect goods for damage before loading
Service aircraft water and lavatories
Inspect ramp areas adjacent to gate and aircraft for debris and remove/dispose of when found
Report all equipment malfunctions to the appropriate supervisor/manager
Follow Safety Rules: Adhere strictly to airport runway safety, security protocols, and OSHA regulations
Comply with all federal, state, municipal, airport authority and carrier security requirements
Load and unload aircraft in accordance with weight and balance restrictions
Ensure correct positioning and securing of cargo and baggage to prevent shifting during flight
Perform pre- and post-flight checks on ground support equipment to ensure safe operating condition
Assist with aircraft push-back and towing operations as required
Coordinate Ground Crew: Communicate with pilots, wingwalkers, and ramp agents for on-time departures
Follow all FOD (Foreign Object Debris) prevention procedures
Adhere to all applicable safety protocols, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
Participate in training and recertification program as required
Maintain cleanliness and organization of ramp equipment and work areas
Other duties as assigned