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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Ground Support Assistant

💰 Market Competitive based on experience and location

AviationAirport OperationsLogisticsGeneral Labor

🎯 Role Definition

As a Ground Support Assistant, you are the backbone of our airport operations. You will be working on the ramp, directly responsible for the efficient and safe handling of aircraft, baggage, and cargo. This role is critical to ensuring our flights depart on time and our customers' belongings are handled with care. You'll operate specialized ground support equipment (GSE), work in all weather conditions, and collaborate closely with a team of dedicated professionals, including pilots, gate agents, and maintenance crews. If you thrive in a high-energy environment and have an unwavering commitment to safety and teamwork, this is your chance to build a rewarding career in aviation.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • High School or College Graduate
  • Warehouse Associate or Material Handler
  • General Laborer or Construction Worker
  • Customer Service or Retail Roles

Advancement To:

  • Lead Ground Support / Lead Ramp Agent
  • Ground Operations Supervisor or Manager
  • Ramp Training Specialist
  • Loadmaster or Weight & Balance Planner

Lateral Moves:

  • Passenger Service Agent
  • Aircraft Cabin Servicing Agent
  • Airport Operations Controller

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Safely guide and marshal aircraft during arrival and departure, utilizing IATA-standard hand signals to communicate clearly with the flight crew and ensure precise positioning at the gate.
  • Operate a diverse range of motorized and non-motorized Ground Support Equipment (GSE), including baggage tugs, belt loaders, pushback tractors, and passenger stairs, in a safe and proficient manner.
  • Meticulously load and unload passenger baggage, air cargo, and company mail from aircraft holds, adhering to specific loading instructions and weight distribution plans to maintain aircraft stability.
  • Sort, scan, and route inbound and outbound baggage and freight to their correct transfer points or carousels, ensuring accurate handling to minimize delays and mishandled items.
  • Perform essential pre-flight and post-flight aircraft services, including connecting and disconnecting ground power units (GPU), pre-conditioned air (PCA) hoses, and potable water/lavatory service vehicles.
  • Execute aircraft pushback, repositioning, and towing operations in close coordination with the flight deck and Air Traffic Control, navigating a busy ramp environment with precision.
  • Conduct aircraft de-icing and anti-icing procedures during inclement weather, applying fluids according to strict operational and environmental protocols to guarantee flight safety.
  • Maintain constant vigilance for and removal of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) from the ramp, taxiways, and gate areas to prevent potential damage to aircraft engines and tires.
  • Perform daily operational checks and light servicing of all ground support equipment before use, promptly reporting any malfunctions or maintenance needs to the appropriate department.
  • Adhere rigorously to all company, airport authority, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety regulations and security procedures to maintain a secure and compliant work environment.
  • Handle specialized cargo, such as live animals (AVI), fragile items, and dangerous goods, in accordance with specific company and international handling regulations.
  • Maintain clear and professional communication with flight crews, gate agents, and fellow ground personnel via two-way radio to ensure a seamless and coordinated aircraft turnaround.
  • Safely position and operate passenger loading bridges or mobile air stairs to facilitate the orderly boarding and deplaning of travelers.
  • Service aircraft lavatory and potable water systems in a sanitary and efficient manner, ensuring a comfortable passenger experience.
  • Accurately document all ground handling services rendered for each flight, contributing to proper record-keeping and billing.
  • Participate actively in mandatory safety briefings, recurrent training sessions, and performance reviews to stay current with evolving industry standards and company procedures.
  • Respond effectively to irregular operations (IROPS), such as flight delays, diversions, or emergency situations, with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset.
  • Maintain exceptional situational awareness on the active airfield to prevent accidents involving aircraft, vehicles, equipment, and personnel.
  • Secure aircraft upon arrival by positioning wheel chocks and safety cones, establishing a safe operational footprint for all ground activities.
  • Perform aircraft security searches as mandated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and internal company security protocols.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • GSE Operation: Proficiency or ability to quickly learn the operation of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) like baggage tugs, belt loaders, and pushback vehicles.
  • Aircraft Marshalling: Knowledge of, or ability to be trained on, standard aircraft marshalling hand signals and ramp communication protocols.
    -Physical Strength: Ability to consistently lift, carry, and maneuver heavy baggage and cargo, frequently weighing up to 70 lbs (32 kg).
  • Valid Driver's License: Possession of a valid state-issued driver's license with a clean driving record is mandatory for operating equipment on the airfield.
  • Regulatory Knowledge: Basic understanding or ability to learn FAA, TSA, and IATA regulations concerning ramp safety, security, and cargo handling.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Basic mechanical skills for performing routine pre-use inspections on vehicles and equipment.

Soft Skills

  • Safety-First Mindset: An uncompromising commitment to safety, demonstrated by strict adherence to all operational procedures and protocols.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: The ability to work effectively and cooperatively within a diverse team in a high-pressure, time-sensitive environment.
  • Resilience & Adaptability: Physical and mental stamina to work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, snow) and adapt to changing schedules and irregular operations.
  • Attention to Detail: A high degree of situational awareness and meticulousness to prevent errors, accidents, and damage.
  • Time Management: Excellent ability to work under pressure and meet the tight deadlines associated with aircraft turnaround schedules to ensure on-time performance.
  • Reliability & Punctuality: A strong work ethic, including consistent on-time attendance, is critical in the airline industry.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age and eligible to work in the United States.
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen and a comprehensive 10-year background check to obtain an airport security badge.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational certificate or some college coursework in Aviation Management, Logistics, or a related discipline.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Aviation Operations
  • Logistics and Supply Chain
  • Automotive or Diesel Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-2 years.

  • No prior aviation experience is required; we provide comprehensive on-the-job training.
  • Experience in physically demanding roles such as warehousing, construction, package handling, or logistics is highly valued.

Preferred:

  • 6+ months of previous experience as a Ramp Agent, Baggage Handler, or in a similar airport ground support role.
  • Prior experience operating heavy machinery, commercial vehicles, or forklifts is a significant plus.
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