Ground Handling Supervisor: Lead Ops & Safety

Placements24; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 240,000 - 360,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hourly wage with overtime

Health insurance

Paid time off

Uniform provided

Advancement opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Ground Handling Supervisor to oversee airport operations in Soweto. You will lead a team, manage ramp activities, and coordinate baggage handling, marshalling, and passenger services to ensure timely aircraft turnarounds.

The ideal candidate has a strong safety mindset, proven leadership, and excellent organizational skills. The role requires flexibility, with nights, weekends, and holidays as part of the schedule.

Qualifications

• 3 years of airport ground handling experience, with supervisory exposure.
• High school diploma or equivalent; aviation/logistics certification is a plus.
• Thorough knowledge of ramp safety protocols and aviation security.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily ground handling operations and crews.
• Coordinate aircraft turnarounds and servicing, including baggage handling and marshalling.
• Ensure compliance with airport safety regulations and company policies.
• Liaise with flight crews, air traffic control, and other stakeholders.
• Train and mentor staff; monitor equipment usage and maintenance.
• Report defects and support continuous improvement.

Skills

Ground handling operations

Leadership

Airport safety procedures

Team management

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Aviation/logistics certification

Job description

Our client is seeking a proactive and experienced Ground Handling Supervisor to oversee their airport operations in Soweto. This role is critical for ensuring the efficient, safe, and timely turnaround of aircraft on the ground. You will lead a team of ground handling personnel, manage ramp operations, and coordinate services such as baggage handling, aircraft marshalling, and passenger loading. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership capabilities, excellent organizational skills, and a deep understanding of airport safety procedures and operational protocols. This position plays a key role in maintaining our client’s reputation for operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and direct the daily activities of ground handling crews, ensuring all tasks are completed safely and efficiently.
• Manage aircraft ground movements and servicing, including baggage loading/unloading, cargo handling, and catering.
• Ensure strict adherence to all airport safety regulations, security procedures, and company policies.
• Coordinate with flight crews, air traffic control, and other airport stakeholders to ensure smooth aircraft turnarounds.
• Train and mentor ground handling staff, promoting best practices and high performance standards.
• Monitor equipment usage and maintenance, reporting any defects or issues promptly.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent; further education or certification in aviation/logistics is a plus.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in airport ground handling operations, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role.
• Thorough knowledge of ground handling procedures, ramp safety protocols, and aviation security measures.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage with potential for overtime pay.
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits.
• Paid time off and sick leave.
• Uniform and protective equipment provided.
• Opportunities for advancement within the airport services sector.
• A dynamic and fast‑paced work environment contributing to global travel.