Lead Cargo Agent

Company Information

Desert Air Transport is a year-round air freight charter company serving communities throughout Alaska. Based at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), we operate DC-3 aircraft capable of transporting a wide variety of cargo, including small packages, building materials, mining supplies, and other freight that fits through our large cargo doors.

Our ramp and cargo operations are located off Old International Airport Road.

Position Summary

Desert Air Transport is seeking a dependable and experienced Lead Cargo Agent to oversee daily cargo and ramp operations.

The Lead Cargo Agent is responsible for accepting freight, coordinating with customers, preparing cargo documentation, consolidating and staging shipments, and supervising the safe loading and unloading of company aircraft. This position involves physical work, forklift operation, vehicle operation, and working in and around aircraft in changing Alaska weather conditions.

The successful candidate must be organized, safety-conscious, comfortable taking the lead, and able to keep cargo operations moving efficiently during busy periods.

Desert Air Transport will sponsor the selected applicant for the airport security identification required to access our ramp and operating areas.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate daily cargo and ramp activities.
• Direct and assist cargo agents during loading, unloading, staging, and snow-removal operations.
• Coordinate with customers regarding freight acceptance, delivery, and shipment requirements.
• Process shipment paperwork accurately, courteously, and promptly.
• Inspect incoming freight and verify that shipments are properly packaged and labeled.
• Consolidate, label, organize, and stage freight for scheduled flights.
• Weigh cargo and record accurate weights and shipment information.
• Prepare and verify cargo manifests.
• Ensure cargo is loaded according to the manifest and company procedures.
• Operate forklifts and other cargo-handling equipment.
• Operate company vehicles to transport cargo between facilities and aircraft.
• Ensure aircraft and ramp areas are properly prepared for loading and unloading.
• Maintain the safety and security of all cargo received and handled.
• Ensure cargo is properly restrained and secured aboard the aircraft.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe cargo facility and ramp area.
• Perform snow and ice removal as needed.
• Identify and report damaged freight, equipment issues, or safety concerns.
• Train and provide direction to new and existing cargo agents.
• Follow all company, airport, FAA, TSA, and security procedures.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Position Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain an acceptable driving record.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and participate in the company’s random drug-testing program.
• Must be able to pass a 10-year FBI background check.
• Must complete required SIDA training and qualify for an airport security identification badge.
• Must be able to safely lift, carry, and move cargo weighing up to 70 pounds.
• Must be able to stand, bend, climb, lift, and work continuously throughout the scheduled shift.
• Must be comfortable working around aircraft, forklifts, vehicles, and other ramp equipment.
• Must be able to work outdoors in cold, snowy, windy, and changing weather conditions.
• Must be able to work independently and provide direction to other employees.
• Must be dependable, punctual, and able to work weekends and holidays when required.
• Cargo, warehouse, ramp, logistics, or aviation experience is preferred.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience is preferred.
• Forklift experience is preferred. Training may be provided to the right candidate.

Benefits

Eligible employees may receive:

• Employer-sponsored health insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Company-provided winter gear allowance
• On-the-job training
• Opportunities for increased responsibility and advancement within the company

Benefit eligibility may depend on employment status and length of service.

Schedule

This position may be available as either full-time or part-time, depending on operational needs.

Applicants must be available for varying shifts, including some early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Job Types: Full-time or part-time
Location: Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport
Experience: At least one year of cargo handling, warehouse, ramp, logistics, or related experience preferred

Job Types: Part-time, Full-time

Pay: $22.50 - $30.00 per hour

Application Question(s):

• Are you able to pass a 10 year back ground check and be placed on a random drug program?

Experience:

• Cargo Handling: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person