Baggage Handler - Heathrow Airport

Optime Group; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking experienced Baggage Handlers to join a well-respected client at Heathrow Airport. This role involves the safe handling of passenger baggage and cargo, ensuring compliance with all regulations. Candidates should be physically fit for lifting up to 32kg and possess strong communication skills. The position offers full-time hours on a flexible 6 on 2 off shift pattern, with excellent facilities and opportunities for progression within the aviation industry.

Benefits

Weekly Pay

Free Airport Parking

Temp to Perm opportunity

Qualifications

• Previous experience in baggage handling or airport operations is desirable.
• Must be physically fit to lift loads up to 32kg.
• Must pass background checks and obtain a security pass.

Responsibilities

• Safely load and unload passenger baggage using manual techniques and equipment.
• Sort baggage accurately by flight specifications.
• Ensure compliance with safety and operational procedures.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Ability to work in a team

Job description

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).

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.

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

• 16th March 2026

Key Duties

• 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.

• This is a manual role; candidates will need to be physically fit and able to repetitively lift and move luggage up to 32KG in weight - It is important to know that there will be down time during your shift between arrivals or departures.

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!

An example of the shift hours:

6 on 2 off rolling:

• Day 1: 05:00AM to 14:00PM
• Day 2: 05:00AM to 14:00PM
• Day 3: 05:00AM to 14:00PM
• Day 4: 14:00PM to 22:00PM
• Day 5: 14:00PM to 22:00PM
• Day 6: 14:00PM to 22:00PM
• OFF
• OFF

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.

For an opportunity to interview for this fantastic role, please submit your CV to apply!

Optime Group is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.