Job Description
Ensuring aircraft depart on schedule keeps flights moving smoothly across the country. Ramp Agents handle cargo, luggage, and equipment at airports to support thousands of daily departures. This role addresses the challenge of maintaining precise timing in a high-volume environment.
Southwest Airlines operates flights from coast to coast. With over 700 aircraft in its fleet, the company connects millions of passengers annually. Southwest specializes in short-haul routes and focuses on affordable travel options.
Agents guide planes using tow bars and wheel chocks, load bags and cargo into bins weighing up to 70 pounds each, and direct de-icing trucks during winter operations. Work occurs outdoors on tarmacs with exposure to varying weather. Agents interact with pilots via radio to confirm preparations and coordinate with ground crews. A real challenge comes from managing overtime during peak travel seasons to meet operational demands.
Starting pay is $20.03 per hour, increasing with tenure up to $39.14 under the union contract, plus overtime and shift differentials. Work takes place at airports with schedules that include early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Benefits include free flights for family, a 401(k) match up to 9.3%, profit-sharing, health insurance starting day one, and paid time off encompassing holidays, vacations, and sick leave. Opportunities for internal career progression exist within operations.
Responsibilities
- Guide, direct, and service aircraft at ramps and terminals
- Load, unload, and transport customer baggage, cargo, and mail
- Handle all aspects of cargo including warehousing, weighing, stacking, and delivery
- Service aircraft interiors by sweeping, cleaning windows, galleys, and lavatories
- Operate machinery such as belt loaders, push tug vehicles, and de-icing equipment
- Maintain forms and records for shipments and operations
- Provide customer service to passengers and external vendors
Requirements
- U.S. citizenship or work authorization
- Ability to lift 70 pounds regularly and 40-50 pounds from raised surfaces
- Capability to climb stairs, bend, kneel, and work in high places for extended periods
- Valid state motor vehicle license
- Obtainable SIDA badge and compliance with local airport requirements
- Age 18 or older
- Satisfactory completion of 90% training program
- Adherence to grooming standards in the Ground Operations Employee Handbook