Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors
O*NET 53-1041.00 · SOC 53-1041
Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor is a solid career choice. Median pay is $58k a year with +9.2% projected growth through 2035 (faster than average) and about 900 openings a year. AI exposure: Elevated.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Direct ground crews loading and unloading cargo aircraft.
- →Verify cargo weight and balance documents before departure.
- →Inspect cargo holds for proper securing of freight.
- →Assign ramp workers to specific aircraft loading tasks.
- →Ensure hazardous materials are handled per safety regulations.
Education & How to Get In
Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
Ready to start building skills for a career as an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor? These platforms offer courses you can start today, many with free trials or financial aid.
Links open in a new tab. Some may include affiliate partnerships.
Work Environment
Leadership, offices, client meetings, or hybrid
Collaborative, frequent interaction with teams, clients, or patients
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
Explore More Careers
Job Outlook
Employment of Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors is projected to grow 9.2% from 2025 to 2035, faster than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·26% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor make?
The median Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor earns $58k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor jobs?
Our model puts Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor at 51 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is elevated disruption risk. The main drivers: 44% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 26% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 9.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is faster than average. That works out to roughly 900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor?
Most Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes