Are there opportunities and growth in aviation careers at I.K. Hofmann?
Aviation hiring is strong as passenger and cargo traffic rise worldwide. Airports operate nonstop, creating steady entry-level jobs and advancement opportunities for high performers.
Hot Aviation Jobs
What aviation careers can you apply for, and what do they involve?
We offer roles across cargo, ground operations, passenger services, guest services, and technical support—each with clear responsibilities and growth paths.
- Cargo and logistics: Warehouse Cargo Agent, Import Agent, Export Agent, Freight Handler, and Logistics Associate. These roles move air freight, build ULDs, manage documents, and stage shipments for flights.
- Ground operations: Ramp Agent, Baggage Handler, and Dispatcher. Teams load and unload aircraft, operate equipment on the tarmac, and coordinate turn times.
- Passenger services: Airport Lounge Attendant. Provide hospitality, assist travelers, and maintain premium lounge environments.
- Guest Services: Customer Service Agent. Support check-in, boarding, and customer inquiries with a focus on friendly, efficient service.
- Technical support: Maintenance Helper or Technician, and Inventory Specialist. Perform basic repairs, support equipment reliability, and manage parts and stock control.
What career growth can you expect in each field?
Cargo and logistics:
Work in indoor or mixed environments with frequent night shift opportunities and common overtime. Build valuable skills in ULD building, WMS, and screening. Grow your career into roles such as Lead, Import or Export Agent, Cargo Coordinator, or Supervisor.
Ground operations:
Join a team-oriented, primarily outdoor environment with equipment training and potential shift premiums. Advance into positions like Lead, Dispatcher, or Operations Supervisor.
Passenger services:
Engage in customer-facing roles with steady schedules and comprehensive service training. Progress to Senior Attendant, Shift Lead, or Lounge Supervisor.
Technical support:
Do hands-on repair and reliability work in a field known for strong long‑term stability. Develop from Technician to Lead, and advance to Maintenance Supervisor.
Our Cargo Agent Referral Program
We hire a wide range of airport roles that keep flights on time, cargo moving, and guests cared for.
- Our Warehouse Cargo Agents receive freight, build and break down ULDs, scan and stage pallets, and support flight schedules to keep operations on track.
- Import Agents process inbound air freight by verifying documents, coordinating customs clearance, and updating tracking systems so shipments move accurately and quickly.
- Export Agents prepare air waybills and export documentation, book shipments, ensure compliance, coordinate screening, and hand freight off to the ramp on schedule.
- Ramp Agents marshal aircraft, load and unload baggage and cargo, and operate ground service equipment such as tugs and belt loaders on the tarmac.
- Baggage Handlers sort, load, and unload luggage while protecting bags and meeting tight timelines.
- Airport Lounge Associates and Guest Services teams welcome guests, serve food and beverages, maintain clean and comfortable lounges, and support special requests to deliver a premium experience.
- Logistics Associates and Freight Handlers pick, pack, kit, manage inventory, stage freight, and provide shipping support in airport warehouses.
- Maintenance Technicians and Dispatchers perform preventive maintenance, complete basic repairs, and coordinate ground operations communications to maintain safety and reliability.
How can you find the airport-role that fits you best?
If you enjoy organized, indoor work, consider Warehouse Cargo Agent or Logistics Associate roles. You’ll scan and stage freight, build ULDs with precision, and keep shipments moving accurately.
If you prefer hands-on teamwork outdoors, Ramp Agent or Baggage Handler could be a great fit. You’ll load and unload aircraft on the tarmac, operate ground equipment, and work in all weather to keep flights on time.
If you like documentation, systems, and customer coordination, explore Import Agent or Export Agent positions. You’ll manage air freight documents, update tracking systems, ensure compliance, and meet tight timelines.
If hospitality is your strength, Airport Lounge Attendant or Guest Services roles focus on creating a calm, premium experience for travelers—welcoming guests, serving food and beverages, and maintaining comfortable spaces.
If you’re mechanically inclined and enjoy working with tools and equipment, Maintenance Technician or Freight Handler roles may suit you. You’ll support equipment reliability, handle materials, and keep operations flowing smoothly.
Not sure where to start? Tell us your strengths and preferences (indoor/outdoor, customer-facing vs. behind-the-scenes, day/night), and we’ll suggest roles that match your interests.
Five core skills employers look for
- Safety and security focus- Follow PPE, equipment training, and airport security rules including STA or SIDA where required.
- Reliability and teamwork- Arrive on time, communicate clearly, and work well across shifts to meet flight schedules.
- Attention to detail- Accurate labels, counts, documents, and load plans prevent delays and rework.
- Physical stamina- Lift, carry, and move freight and baggage safely. Work on your feet and sometimes outdoors.
- Systems fluency- Use scanners, WMS, tracking tools, and radios. Keep notes and status current.
Bonus skills
- ULD building and netting
- Forklift or tug experience
- Hazmat awareness
- Customer service and hospitality for lounge roles
- Basic computer and data entry
What do Ramp Agents do, and what can you expect in this role?
Ramp Agents work airside on the tarmac, loading and unloading baggage and cargo, marshalling aircraft, and operating ground support equipment. It’s a fast-paced, physical role where safety and clear communication come first.
Before and during arrival, you’ll set chocks and cones, marshal aircraft to the gate, and open the cargo holds to begin unloading. During loading and unloading, you’ll move baggage and freight using belt loaders and dollies, protect items from damage, and follow load plans and weight-and-balance requirements to keep flights safe and on schedule.
You’ll operate ground equipment such as tugs, belt loaders, and bag carts; in some locations, you may also support deicing if trained. Safety and communication are constant: you’ll use proper PPE, radio calls, and standardized hand signals while coordinating closely with gate and cargo teams to execute each turn efficiently.
Ramp work happens in all weather—heat, cold, rain, and snow—and night and weekend shifts are common. If you’re looking for a role with steady teamwork, active days, and a clear impact on flight operations, this is a rewarding path.
Cargo operations move air freight in and out of secure airport areas on tight timelines, and warehouse teams make it all happen by building ULDs, verifying documents, and staging freight for upcoming flights. If you’re considering a role in cargo or warehouse operations, here’s what the work looks like day to day.
You’ll start with receiving and screening: accepting inbound freight, checking labels for accuracy, and following security screening procedures to clear shipments for movement. A core task is ULD building—assembling and breaking down Unit Load Devices, securely netting and strapping freight, and following load plans so each container is built to airline standards.
Documentation and compliance are central to the job. You’ll work with air waybills and import/export documents, coordinate customs clearance when required, and update tracking systems to maintain visibility across the supply chain. Once freight is cleared and prepared, you’ll stage pallets and ULDs by flight, hand off shipments to the ramp team on time, and keep the Warehouse Management System (WMS) and tracking tools current.
Strong inventory control keeps freight flowing smoothly. Expect routine cycle counts, damage checks, and careful location accuracy so teams can find, move, and load freight without delays. If you like organized, detail-driven work that directly impacts on-time departures, cargo and warehouse operations offer a clear path to grow your skills and career.
How can you grow your aviation career, and what training will you need?
Growth is common in airport operations when you demonstrate safety, reliability, and strong performance. Many roles start as temp-to-hire and include structured training, giving you a clear path to advance.
You can move from entry-level to lead positions as you build experience. Warehouse Cargo Agents often progress to Lead roles, Ramp Agents can advance to Lead or Trainer, and Lounge Attendants can step into Shift Lead positions. If you prefer a specialist track, there are paths into Import or Export roles, Cargo Coordinator, Dispatcher, Inventory Specialist, or Quality support—each focusing on documentation, coordination, and process excellence. For those aiming higher, Supervisor and Manager opportunities are available across Ground Operations, Cargo, Lounge, and Warehouse teams.
Training and certifications help unlock these steps. Most airport roles require STA or SIDA badging for secure area access, along with safety and security modules and site-specific SOPs. Operational skills may include Hazmat awareness, ULD building standards, and equipment certifications such as tug or forklift. As you advance, additional training in leadership, load planning, and compliance can further expand your options.
Regarding compensation and benefits, packages vary by role, shift, and location, but typically include hourly pay with potential shift premiums, overtime opportunities, and eligibility for benefits after conversion to full-time. If you share your location and target role, we can outline typical pay ranges, benefits, and advancement timelines for your market.
What pay and benefits can you expect?
Pay varies by airport, role, and experience. Entry roles offer competitive hourly rates with frequent overtime opportunities. Many assignments are temp-to-hire and can lead to full-time benefits with the client.
- Entry ranges: Competitive hourly pay for Warehouse Cargo Agent, Ramp Agent, and Lounge Attendant roles. See each job posting for exact rates.
- Premiums and overtime: Overnight and weekend premiums may apply. Overtime is common during peak flight schedules.
Benefits include weekly pay as a W-2 employee and compliant onboarding. Temp-to-hire roles may convert to full-time client benefits such as medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and referral bonuses. Specifics vary by employer.
What training and certifications will you need?
You’ll receive on-the-job training covering safety, ULD building, ground equipment, and cargo security. Most roles require STA or SIDA badging through TSA and airport authorities for secure area access. You’ll complete Hazmat awareness and site-specific policy training to meet compliance standards. Tug and forklift certifications are provided where required for your role and location.
What shifts and schedules should you expect?
Airports operate day, evening, night, and weekend shifts. Overnight work is common in import and export operations. If you’re open to nights, you’ll often be placed faster and may qualify for shift premiums.
Employee Reviews
“From the outset, it was clear that she lead(s) a highly organized and responsive team. The professionalism, clarity, and courtesy shown by the recruitment team directly reflects the quality of leadership behind them. I believe Rickina has cultivated a team culture that values communication, efficiency, and the candidate experience something I greatly appreciated. What stood out most was the seamless coordination and the consistent follow-up throughout the process. It’s evident that the manager not only sets high standards but also empowers the team to meet them. That kind of leadership doesn’t just drive results; it leaves a lasting, positive impression on candidates like myself. I’m grateful for the positive experience and would gladly recommend the recruitment function under Rickina’s leadership.” 1 month ago, Lounge/Food & beverage attendant
“Tiarra is a great person. She's always attentive to addressing her colleagues' concerns. In my case, when I've contacted her to inform her about a situation at work, she helps me find solutions. I feel very comfortable working with her and being part of her team. Success to her and to IK Hofmann.” 2 months ago, Buffer/ Floor/ Receptionist
“Sophia has been wonderful, anytime I have a question or concern, she's always available.” 1 year ago, Import/ Export Agent
FAQs
Is working through a temp agency worth it in aviation?
- Yes. You get faster access to airport jobs, help with onboarding and clearances, weekly pay, and potential benefits. As a W 2 employee we handle payroll, taxes, and workers comp. Temp to hire paths can lead to full-time roles.
What steps should I take to get hired for aviation staff roles?
- Apply online and prepare a resume that highlights safety, reliability, and any warehouse, logistics, or customer service experience. Respond quickly to recruiters. Be ready for assessments and badging.
How do I get hired as a Ramp Agent?
- Show safety, stamina, and comfort working outdoors around aircraft and equipment. Expect background checks and airport security clearances. Be flexible on shifts and respond quickly to interview invites.
What documents do I need for airport work?
- Valid ID for employment verification, a resume, and any certifications such as forklift, tug, or hazmat awareness. Many secure area roles require STA or SIDA badges.
Do aviation cargo jobs offer training?
- Yes. Most sites provide training for safety, ULD building, hazmat awareness, forklift or tug operation, and cargo security.