Air Cargo Specialist Lead

About Us:

AAR’s purpose is to empower people to build innovative aerospace solutions today so you can safely reach your destination tomorrow. The company’s mission is to go above and beyond to provide value-driven aerospace aftermarket solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers worldwide. AAR constantly searches for the right thing to do for its customers, employees, partners and for society.

The Worldwide Aviation Support Services (WASS) program, an AAR business, headquartered in Rockledge, FL, provides global, world-class expeditionary and conventional aviation solutions to the US Department of State Air Wing.

Role Description:

An Air Cargo Specialist Lead is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient handling of air cargo. This role involves loading and unloading aircraft, preparing cargo for shipment, and ensuring compliance with all relevant safety and security regulations. The ideal candidate will have a keen attention to detail, physical stamina, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Cargo loading and unloading scheduling is distributed through the Airfield Terminal Operations Center ATOC. Leads a team of 10 Air Cargo Handlers.

Key Responsibility:

• Supervise and manage the Air Cargo Handling team, ensuring high-quality performance and adherence to standards.
• Develop work and manage rotation schedule for assigned personnel.
• Conduct ad hoc training as needed.
• Safely load and unload cargo from aircraft.
• Operate forklifts, tugs, and other ground support equipment.
• Secure cargo using appropriate restraints and ensure proper weight distribution.
• Inspect and verify cargo for accuracy and condition.
• Prepare and label cargo for shipment according to regulations.
• Handle special cargo e.g., hazardous materials, live animals with care and in accordance with specific guidelines.
• Complete and maintain accurate records of cargo movements.
• Ensure all cargo documentation is accurate and compliant with international and local regulations.
• Familiar with Automated Information Systems AIS that are utilized throughout the Defense Transportation System DTS to account, track, and interface movement data with load planning programs and joint AIS to support the FDP and E process and In Transit Visibility ITV.
• Follow all safety and security procedures to prevent damage, loss, or theft of cargo.
• Communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and other departments.
• Coordinate with flight crews and ground operations to ensure timely loading and unloading of cargo.
• Report any issues or discrepancies to the Cargo Operations Manager promptly.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the cargo handling area.
• Perform routine checks on handling equipment and report any malfunctions or maintenance needs.
• Maintains a rotation schedule to always ensure required boots-on-the-ground BOG.