CemAir (Pty) Ltd is inviting applications for a Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler (RCB) position based at Richards Bay Airport in KwaZulu-Natal. The position is suited to a reliable, safety-conscious and physically capable individual who can work in a busy airport environment and assist with the safe and efficient turnaround of aircraft.
The successful candidate will be responsible for a range of ramp operations, including baggage and cargo handling, aircraft loading and unloading, ground support activities and general airside duties. The role requires strong communication, teamwork and the ability to remain effective while working under pressure.
Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler Job Details
Position: Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler (RCB)
Location: Richards Bay Airport, KwaZulu-Natal
Reference: #RampRCB
Employment Type: Permanent/Company vacancy
Industry: Aviation / Airline / Airport Operations
Application Method: Email
Email: [email protected]
About the Position
The Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler will play an important role in supporting aircraft operations at Richards Bay Airport. Ramp personnel work directly in the aircraft parking and turnaround area and are responsible for helping ensure that aircraft can arrive, prepare for departure and depart safely and efficiently.
The position involves physical work and may require working outdoors in different weather conditions. Candidates must be comfortable working in a fast-paced operational environment where safety, accuracy and punctuality are important.
The successful applicant will assist with arriving and departing CemAir flights and support various ground handling activities. This includes loading and unloading baggage, cargo and mail, checking aircraft holds, positioning safety equipment and completing required documentation.
The role also involves working closely with other airport and airline personnel. Effective communication with Passenger Services, Cabin Crew, Pilots and Flight Operations is important to ensure that aircraft turnaround activities are completed smoothly.
Main Responsibilities
The Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler will be responsible for performing ramp duties associated with arriving and departing CemAir flights.
Key duties include supporting the safe and efficient turnaround of aircraft and assisting with activities required to achieve on-time departures. The successful candidate will coordinate and assist with aircraft ground handling activities while ensuring that the correct and serviceable equipment is available and used safely.
Baggage, cargo and mail handling will form an important part of the position. Duties may include loading and unloading baggage and cargo, assisting with baggage arrivals and handling activities such as sky check and check-in.
The successful candidate must ensure that baggage, cargo, mail and live animals are handled carefully and according to company procedures. Any damaged, opened or compromised baggage or cargo must be identified and reported promptly.
Before aircraft loading takes place, the aircraft holds must be checked to ensure that they are clean, empty and free from damage. Accurate loading and turnaround documentation must also be completed as required.
Other ramp duties include ensuring that aircraft are correctly chocked and that safety cones are positioned appropriately. The successful candidate may also assist with aircraft fuelling coordination and other activities required during the aircraft turnaround process.
Maintaining clean and safe aircraft parking bays and work areas will also be part of the role. Candidates may be required to assist during delays and irregular operations when necessary.
Communication and Teamwork
Airport ground operations require constant coordination between different teams. The Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler will therefore need strong communication skills and efficient radio communication abilities.
The position involves liaising with Passenger Services, Cabin Crew, Pilots and Flight Operations to support smooth aircraft operations.
Candidates should be able to communicate information clearly, follow instructions and report operational concerns without delay. Any safety incidents, accidents, damage or other operational issues must be reported promptly.
Teamwork is also essential because aircraft turnaround activities often involve several employees working together under strict time requirements.
Safety Responsibilities
Safety is a major requirement of the Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler position. The successful candidate must follow CemAir policies, procedures, the General Operations Manual (GOM) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Candidates will be expected to wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with all applicable airside safety requirements.
The role also requires proactive measures to prevent damage to aircraft, vehicles and Ground Support Equipment. Equipment must be used correctly and safely, and any defective or unsuitable equipment should be reported.
The successful candidate must also maintain safe working areas and ensure that aircraft parking bays remain clean and free from unnecessary hazards.
Scheduled training and staff meetings must be attended as required.
Driving Duties
The position may include driving duties where required. Candidates undertaking such duties must hold the appropriate valid Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit (AVOP).
A valid driver’s licence is listed among the requirements for the position. Candidates should therefore ensure that driver’s licence information is clearly reflected on the CV.
Required Skills and Experience
Applicants should have strong communication skills and be capable of efficient radio communication. Excellent problem-solving abilities are also required.
Knowledge of aviation regulations will be advantageous, although it is not listed as a mandatory requirement.
The successful candidate must be able to work effectively in a physically demanding and fast-paced operational environment. Ramp operations can involve lifting, moving and handling baggage, cargo and equipment, so physical readiness is important.
Candidates must also be able to multitask and work effectively as part of a team. Reliability, attention to detail, safety awareness and the ability to follow procedures are important qualities for the position.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- South African citizen
- Valid driver’s licence
- Clear criminal record
- Based in Richards Bay
- Able to work shifts
- Able to work overtime when required
- Strong communication skills
- Efficient radio communication skills
- Excellent problem-solving skills
- Ability to work in a physically demanding environment
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced operational environment
- Ability to multitask
- Ability to work as part of a team
Knowledge of aviation regulations will be an advantage.
Working Environment
A Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler works in an operational airport environment where duties are performed around aircraft, baggage, cargo, vehicles and ground support equipment.
The position may require employees to work outside and in changing weather conditions. Shift work is required because airline operations take place according to flight schedules. Overtime may also be required depending on operational needs.
Candidates should therefore be prepared for a working environment that requires flexibility, physical activity, concentration and strict adherence to safety procedures.
The role can be particularly suitable for candidates interested in developing a career in aviation, airport operations, airline ground handling or baggage and cargo operations.
Important Qualities for Applicants
Applicants should demonstrate reliability and professionalism when applying for the position. Because the role involves aircraft and airside operations, attention to detail and compliance with safety procedures are particularly important.
Candidates should also be comfortable working under time pressure. Aircraft turnaround activities often need to be completed within specific timeframes to support scheduled departures.
Good teamwork and communication are equally important because ramp personnel interact with different operational teams throughout the turnaround process.
A concise CV should clearly show relevant skills, work experience, driver’s licence information and contact details. Candidates with previous airport, aviation, logistics, warehouse, baggage handling, cargo handling, ground support or other physically demanding operational experience may find such experience relevant to the position.
How to Apply
Interested and suitably qualified candidates should prepare a cover letter and concise CV for submission.
- The application must include the reference #RampRCB.
- Applications should be emailed to: [email protected]
Candidates should ensure that the email subject and application clearly indicate the position being applied for and include #RampRCB.
The CV should contain accurate personal and contact information, education, employment history, relevant skills and driver’s licence details. Any relevant aviation, airport, baggage handling, cargo, logistics, warehouse, ground handling or operational experience should be clearly highlighted.
Applicants should also ensure that the information provided in the application is truthful and can be supported if requested during the recruitment process.
Application Closing and Feedback
The vacancy information does not specify a closing date. Candidates who are interested should therefore submit their applications as soon as possible rather than waiting until a later date.
CemAir advises applicants that if no response is received within two weeks of applying, the application should be considered unsuccessful.
Candidates should keep a copy of the submitted CV and cover letter for their records and ensure that the correct email address and reference are used when submitting the application.
About CemAir
CemAir is a South African airline operating scheduled and charter services. The company operates within the country’s aviation industry and requires personnel who can support safe and reliable flight operations.
The Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler position provides an opportunity to work directly within an airport operational environment. The successful candidate will contribute to ground activities that support aircraft arrivals, departures and efficient turnaround operations.
For candidates who enjoy practical work, teamwork and a fast-moving environment, airport ramp operations can provide valuable experience in the aviation and ground-handling sector.
Conclusion
The Ramp Agent / Baggage Handler (RCB) vacancy offers an opportunity for a South African citizen based in Richards Bay to work in an aviation operational environment at Richards Bay Airport.
The position requires a valid driver’s licence, clear criminal record, strong communication abilities and the ability to work shifts and overtime. Candidates must also be physically capable of performing baggage, cargo and ramp duties while following strict airside safety procedures.
Applicants who meet the requirements should submit a cover letter and concise CV to [email protected], using #RampRCB when applying.