Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler (Below-Wing)

About Delta Air Lines:

Delta Air Lines is a 'global leader' in aviation, and our 'below-wing' Operations team is the 'engine' of our airline. Our Ramp Agents are responsible for ensuring that every flight departs and arrives 'safely and on time'. We are seeking 'physically active', 'safety-conscious', and 'team-oriented' individuals to join our Ramp team at the Detroit (DTW) hub. This is an 'entry-level' position with 'no experience' required. We provide 'comprehensive, paid training' to get you certified on all our ground equipment and procedures. This is a 'tough, physically demanding' job that is 'critical' to our success, and it comes with 'great pay and benefits'.

Your New Career – The Role:

As a Delta Ramp Agent, you will work 'entirely outdoors' on the airport ramp, in 'all weather conditions' (heat, cold, rain, snow). You are responsible for 'all ground operations' related to an aircraft's turn. This includes 'loading and unloading baggage' (which can be 'up to 70 lbs'), 'marshalling' the aircraft to and from the gate, and 'operating ground service equipment' (GSE) like belt loaders and baggage tugs. 'Safety is your #1 priority'; you will be working around 'live aircraft engines' and heavy equipment. This is a 'fast-paced' role that requires 'physical strength', 'teamwork', and the ability to work a 'flexible 24/7 schedule', including 'night shift', 'day shift', 'weekend shift', and holidays.

The Training – Your Foundation for Success:

Your career begins with a 'multi-week, paid training' program at our DTW station. 'No experience' is necessary. This 'hands-on' training covers:

* 'Ramp Safety:' You will learn the 'A-B-Cs of safety' on the ramp, including 'hearing protection', 'situational awareness', and 'safe zones' around aircraft.
* 'Aircraft Operations:' You will learn how to 'marshal' aircraft using hand signals, how to 'chock' the wheels, and how to connect 'ground power' and 'air conditioning' units.
* 'Baggage Handling:' You will learn the 'proper techniques' for 'lifting' heavy bags and 'loading' them into the cargo hold to 'prevent injuries' and 'damage'.
* 'Ground Service Equipment (GSE):' You will be 'certified' to operate a variety of equipment, including 'baggage tugs', 'belt loaders', and 'pushback' tractors.
* 'FAA/TSA Regulations:' You will learn all security and handling procedures, including 'hazardous materials' recognition.

A Day in the Life – What to Expect:

Your shift will be 'physically demanding' from start to finish.

* 'The Turn:' You'll be assigned to a 'gate team'. When an aircraft arrives, your team 'springs into action'. You will 'guide the aircraft' to the gate ('marshalling'). You will 'set the chocks' and 'connect the ground power'.
* 'Unloading:' You and your team will 'climb into the cargo hold' and 'manually' unload 'hundreds of bags' and cargo onto the 'belt loader'. This is 'fast-paced' and 'physical' work.
* 'Sorting & Loading:' You'll sort the arriving bags, then 'load' the 'new, outbound' bags for the next flight. You must 'stack the bags' correctly to 'ensure safety' and 'prevent damage'.
* 'Pushback:' Once the flight is boarded, you may be the 'pushback operator', 'communicating with the pilots' and 'safely pushing' the multi-ton aircraft off the gate to prepare it for taxi.

This is a 'team-based' job. You are 'constantly' lifting, moving, and communicating. You must be 'prepared for the weather'; you will be 'working in the rain, snow, and summer heat'. This role is perfect for those who 'love 'physical work', 'love being around airplanes', and 'hate being stuck indoors'.

Why Delta?

This 'entry-level' role is the 'start of a great career'. Delta 'promotes from within', and many of our Ramp Agents become 'team leads', 'managers', or move into other departments like 'TechOps' (maintenance) or 'Flight Operations'. We offer 'competitive pay' (often starting higher than other airport jobs), 'profit sharing', and the 'same amazing global travel privileges' as all Delta employees. You'll receive 'comprehensive benefits', 'paid training', and be part of a 'proud, tight-knit' team that 'gets the job done'.

Airlines, Aviation, Logistics, Ground Operations, Skilled Trade, Entry Level

Hourly pay plus 'profit sharing'. 'No experience' starting rate is competitive. Training is paid. Shift differentials for 'night shift' apply.

'Physically load and unload' baggage and cargo from aircraft cargo holds.

Operate 'Ground Service Equipment' (GSE) such as 'belt loaders' and 'baggage tugs'.

'Marshal' aircraft to and from the gate using hand signals.

'Push back' aircraft from the gate and perform 'wing-walking' duties.

Perform 'all tasks in a safe manner', adhering to strict safety protocols.

Work 'outdoors in all weather conditions' (heat, cold, rain, snow).

Lift, push, and pull 'up to 70 lbs' repeatedly.

Handle 'U.S. Mail' and other 'sensitive cargo' items.

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required. Must be at least 18 years of age. 'No experience' in aviation necessary; paid training provided. Must be authorized to work in the United States. Must possess a 'valid driver's license'. Must be able to pass a 10-year background check and a pre-employment drug screening. Must be able to 'lift 70 lbs' repeatedly. Must be 'physically fit' and able to 'work outdoors' in all weather. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including 'night shift', 'weekend shift', 'day shift', and holidays.

Physical Strength, Stamina, 'Safety-First' Mindset, Teamwork, Situational Awareness, 'All-Weather' Operations, 'GSE Operation', Reliability

Company-provided 'uniforms' and 'safety gear'.

Clear 'career path' to leadership and other divisions.