Baggage Handler - Heathrow Airport

Optime Group; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aviation recruitment specialist is seeking experienced Baggage Handlers for a full-time role at Heathrow Airport. This position offers a competitive pay rate of £14.38 per hour with a shift pattern of 6 on 2 off. As a Baggage Handler, you will be responsible for safely handling and sorting passenger luggage while adhering to strict airport regulations. Flexibility with shifts is vital as you may work early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

Benefits

Weekly Pay

Free Airport Parking

Temp to Perm opportunities

Qualifications

• Previous experience in baggage handling or airport operations is desirable but not essential.
• Physically fit to handle heavy loads up to 32kg+.
• Strong communication skills to work effectively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Sort, load, and unload luggage according to regulations.
• Safely operate ground service equipment.
• Communicate effectively with staff for on-time departures.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Attention to detail

Job description

Overview

Aviation Recruitment experts Optime are searching for experienced Baggage Handlers to join a well-respected and successful client at Heathrow Airport. This job offers full-time hours and overtime opportunities. This is a very enjoyable role with a great company providing fantastic conditions and facilities.

To ensure the safe, secure, and efficient handling of passenger baggage and cargo at Heathrow Airport T2/T3/T5. (roster per colleague will be set at one terminal and no mixed terminals involved).

Responsibilities

• The Baggage Agent is responsible for sorting, loading, and unloading luggage and ensuring all items are correctly routed and handled according to airline and airport regulations.
• Safely load and unload passenger baggage from aircraft holds using manual handling techniques and mechanical equipment (belt loaders, tugs, dollies).
• Sort baggage accurately by flight number, destination, or transfer requirements.
• Operate a range of ground service equipment in line with operational and safety standards.
• Handle priority baggage, including fragile, oversized, and mobility equipment, with care and attention.
• Support the management of lost or delayed luggage by entering details into baggage tracking systems.
• Ensure full compliance with Heathrow Airport and airline safety, security, and operational procedures.
• Work collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, time-critical environment.
• Communicate effectively with ramp agents, flight dispatch, and airline staff to support on-time departures.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised baggage handling area.

Requirements

• Previous experience in baggage handling or airport operations is desirable but not essential (full training provided).
• Physically fit and able to repetitively lift, push, and pull heavy loads weighing up to 32kg+.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• High attention to detail and the ability to perform under strict time constraints.
• Must successfully pass background checks and obtain an airside security pass (including criminal record check, 5-year employment history verification, and drug & alcohol testing).
• Valid UK driving licence is not required but will be considered an advantage.
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and bank holidays.
• Willingness to adapt during periods of down time between aircraft arrivals and departures.

PLEASE NOTE: As this position is in the aviation industry, successful applicants must be able to provide 5-year checkable history.

What’s on offer

• Rate of pay: £14.38 per hour
• Shift Pattern: 6 on 2 off, with the earliest start time being 5:00am.
• Weekly Pay
• Free Airport Parking.
• Temp to Perm (performance-based)

Confirmed start dates

• November 2025

Shifts

The Airport is operational 7 days per week and candidates will be working on a 6 on 2 off rolling rota and you will need to be fully flexible with the days and hours you can work. Please note, your shifts can start as early as 05:00am. This could be subject to change!