Operations Ramp Agent

DHL Express; Greater Lincolnshire; On-site; GBP 17,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Free onsite parking

Pension (company)

DHL Rewards

Private medical (after 12 months)

Wellbeing support

Cycle to Work Scheme

Enhanced Maternity Pay

CIS Induction Week

Job summary

DHL Express at East Midlands Airport is seeking a hands-on Ramp Operative to join EMA Operations - Ramp. You will coordinate loading and unloading of air freight, follow safety procedures and DHL standards, and work across flight movements to keep the network moving.

You will operate ground support equipment, perform safety checks, and support teams across the Hub. A full driving licence and ability to lift/move cargo are essential, with a focus on accuracy, safety and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Good physical fitness and ability to undertake manual handling safely.
• Ability to work independently and show initiative.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Full, valid driving licence.

Responsibilities

• Play a key role in the safe and efficient loading and unloading of DHL aircraft, ensuring operations run smoothly and on schedule.
• Carry out aircraft arrival and departure procedures in accordance with operational and safety standards.
• Safely position aircraft safety equipment, including chocks and cones, upon arrival.
• Verify that the correct Unit Load Devices (ULDs) are loaded onto aircraft.
• Handle, manoeuvre, push and pull large freight containers and cargo equipment.
• Load and unload shipments weighing up to 25kg as part of a fast-paced operational environment.
• Work in a variety of aircraft loading areas, including confined cargo spaces and elevated aircraft decks.
• Support different operational teams across the Hub as required to maintain service excellence.
• Complete daily equipment safety inspections and report faults promptly to minimise operational disruptions.
• Follow Global Aviation Procedures and Standards to ensure compliance, safety and quality at all times.
• Operate a range of ground support equipment, including aircraft stair units, scissor lifts, ground power units, de-icing equipment, cargo dollies and pushback units, with full training provided.
• Thrive in a physically active role involving regular lifting, bending, reaching and movement throughout the shift.

Job description

Location

DHL Aviation, East Midlands Airport

Contract type

Permanent / Fixed Term Contract ? Months / Secondment ? Months

Hours

e.g Monday to Friday, 08:30 – 17:00 (40 hours per week, flexibility required)

Department

EMA Operations - Ramp

Grade

O

Kick start your career with the #1 Best Workplace in Europe

At DHL, our people are our superpower. As the most international company in the world, we connect over 220 countries with a team of 500,000+ colleagues, delivering time-critical parcels across the globe. DHL Aviation UK forms part of DHL Express, playing a key role in keeping our network moving. We’re proud to create an inclusive, diverse workplace where everyone can thrive.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

You’ll get amazing benefits while building your future:

• Competitive salary + shift allowance
• Annual bonus (up to 5%)
• Free onsite parking
• Pension (up to 6% company contribution)
• My DHL Rewards – discounts at 3,000+ retailers
• Private medical (after 12 months)
• Spark – wellbeing support
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Enhanced Maternity Pay
• CIS Induction Week

About The Role

The Ramp Department plays a vital role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant handling of shipments. Responsible for coordinating the unloading and reloading of air freight in line with DHL standards, airline requirements, and legal regulations, the team ensures all material is accurately sorted and prepared for onward transportation. Their work is critical to keeping the network running smoothly, ensuring shipments are ready for distribution and reach their destinations on schedule.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Play a key role in the safe and efficient loading and unloading of DHL aircraft, ensuring operations run smoothly and on schedule.
• Carry out aircraft arrival and departure procedures in accordance with operational and safety standards.
• Safely position aircraft safety equipment, including chocks and cones, upon arrival.
• Verify that the correct Unit Load Devices (ULDs) are loaded onto aircraft.
• Handle, manoeuvre, push and pull large freight containers and cargo equipment.
• Load and unload shipments weighing up to 25kg as part of a fast-paced operational environment.
• Work in a variety of aircraft loading areas, including confined cargo spaces and elevated aircraft decks.
• Support different operational teams across the Hub as required to maintain service excellence.
• Complete daily equipment safety inspections and report faults promptly to minimise operational disruptions.
• Follow Global Aviation Procedures and Standards to ensure compliance, safety and quality at all times.
• Operate a range of ground support equipment, including aircraft stair units, scissor lifts, ground power units, de-icing equipment, cargo dollies and pushback units, with full training provided.
• Thrive in a physically active role involving regular lifting, bending, reaching and movement throughout the shift.

What You’ll Bring

• Knowledge of the DHL operational network and airside operations (desirable).
• Experience or knowledge of ramp and ground support equipment (advantageous, but not essential).
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain an Airside Pass.
• A full, valid driving licence.
• The ability to work independently, using your own initiative to solve problems and make decisions.
• Good physical fitness and the capability to undertake manual handling activities safely.
• A proactive, self-motivated approach with a strong work ethic.
• Excellent teamwork skills and the ability to integrate quickly into an established high-performing team.
• A focus on safety, compliance and operational excellence in everything you do.

Closing Date: e.g 23rd July 2026

Our Recruitment Process

We aim to make your recruitment journey smooth, transparent, and engaging. Our process often includes competency-based interviews, so be ready to share your achievements and experiences. We encourage you to ask questions along the way - recruitment is a two-way process, and we want to make sure DHL is right for you too.

Important Information

Due to the nature of our business and CAA regulations, all candidates must provide a full 5-year employment history, and a Criminal Record Check will be carried out as part of the recruitment process.