Airport Ramp Agent Job Description, Duties and Requirements

Ramp Agent Role Overview

Ramp agents are responsible for loading and unloading aircraft baggage, guiding planes to and from their gates, operating baggage carts, de-icing planes and performing other airplane servicing duties. You will work either as an airport or airline-specific employee, depending on the airport at which you work. Ramp agents have fast-paced careers and should be comfortable working in any weather, including rain, snow and heat.

Ramp Agent Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for maintaining the safety and security of the ramp at all times
• Monitor customer safety during boarding and deplaning, and assist customers in a friendly and courteous manner 
• Marshal aircraft on the ramp (e.g. directing, assisting and parking all arriving, departing and towed aircraft) 
• Transfer cargo (including luggage) to other gates, other airlines and to passengers
• Observe safe ground-handling procedures and maintenance of ground service equipment, including the performance of equipment checks 
• Comply with all safety procedures and airline policies 
• Responsible for courteous, prompt, accurate and careful handling of customer baggage, airfreight and company material; continuous lifting, loading/unloading, sorting and transfer of baggage, freight and company material 
• Service aircraft as needed (e.g. aircraft lavatories, potable water, window wash, deicing and commissary items) 
• Assist in ramp set up and storage of equipment and baggage 
• Constantly communicate with flight crew personnel and other ground personnel 
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor and manager

Ramp Agent Requirements

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Able to lift 60 lbs. comfortably and continuously
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• Flexible schedule allowing work during nights, weekends and holidays
• Able to fluently read, write, speak and understand English
• Able to work in stressful situations and tight time constraints
• Self-motivated and a team player
• Able to proficiently use a computer

You may need to meet certain requirements before applying for a job as a ramp agent. Relative to ramp agent duties, you should meet the minimum education and training requirements usually set by the airlines and transportation industries. Because of the strenuous labor involved, it is best to be in good physical shape. Some airline companies may also require passing various aptitude tests before you can become a ramp agent. In addition, you should be able to pass a background security check to become a ramp agent.

Airport Ramp Agent Jobs

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