IAD Ramp Loader Operator

Are you ready to take flight in a dynamic and fast-paced aviation industry? 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.

• 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…