Ground Operations Supervisor - Cargo Aviation

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career progression

Training programs

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Ground Operations Supervisor for our Mossel Bay facility. You will lead a team of ground crew specialists, overseeing loading/unloading, baggage handling, and ramp operations to ensure safe and timely aircraft turnarounds.

The role blends on-site supervision with remote administrative duties under a hybrid model; you will optimize operations, maintain safety standards, liaise with crews and stakeholders, and contribute to continuous improvements in this

Qualifications

• Proven experience in aviation ground operations, preferably cargo handling.
• 3–5 years in a supervisory role within ground operations.
• Strong understanding of aviation safety regulations, ramp safety procedures, and dangerous goods handling.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage daily ground handling operations for cargo aircraft, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and company procedures.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of ground handling staff, assigning tasks and monitoring performance.
• Coordinate aircraft turnaround processes, including baggage and cargo handling, fueling, and pushback operations.
• Ensure efficient and safe loading and unloading of cargo, complying with weight and balance regulations.
• Maintain operational readiness of ground support equipment (GSE) and facilities, reporting any defects or maintenance needs promptly.
• Implement and enforce strict safety standards and procedures on the ramp and within operational areas.
• Liaise with flight crews, air traffic control, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.
• Manage inventory of operational supplies and equipment.
• Handle operational disruptions and emergencies calmly and effectively, implementing contingency plans as needed.
• Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives within ground operations.

Skills

Leadership

Team motivation

Safety regulations

Communication

Problem solving

Shift flexibility

Driver's license

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the cargo aviation sector, is seeking an experienced and proactive Ground Operations Supervisor to manage and oversee all ground handling activities at their Mossel Bay, Western Cape facility. This role is essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and timely turnaround of cargo aircraft. You will lead a team of ground crew specialists, coordinating all aspects of aircraft loading and unloading, baggage handling, and ramp operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aviation ground operations, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to upholding the highest safety standards. This position involves a hybrid work arrangement, offering a blend of on-site operational oversight and remote administrative duties. You will be instrumental in optimizing ground operations and ensuring customer satisfaction within this vital logistics hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage daily ground handling operations for cargo aircraft, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and company procedures.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of ground handling staff, assigning tasks and monitoring performance.
• Coordinate aircraft turnaround processes, including baggage and cargo handling, fueling, and pushback operations.
• Ensure efficient and safe loading and unloading of cargo, complying with weight and balance regulations.
• Maintain operational readiness of ground support equipment (GSE) and facilities, reporting any defects or maintenance needs promptly.
• Implement and enforce strict safety standards and procedures on the ramp and within operational areas.
• Liaise with flight crews, air traffic control, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless operations.
• Manage inventory of operational supplies and equipment.
• Handle operational disruptions and emergencies calmly and effectively, implementing contingency plans as needed.
• Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives within ground operations.

Requirements

• Proven experience in aviation ground operations, preferably within cargo handling.
• Minimum of 3-5 years in a supervisory or team lead role within ground operations.
• Strong understanding of aviation safety regulations, ramp safety procedures, and dangerous goods handling.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage and motivate a diverse team.
• Proficiency in using ground handling software and equipment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make quick, effective decisions under pressure.
• Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and public holidays, as required by operational demands.
• Valid driver's license.
• Must be based in or able to commute to Mossel Bay, Western Cape for on-site duties as part of the hybrid arrangement.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Employees are provided with comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• This role presents excellent opportunities for career progression within the aviation cargo sector.
• Training and development programs are available to enhance skills in ground operations management and leadership.
• The hybrid work model offers a good work-life balance.
• You will be part of a dedicated and growing team, contributing to the smooth functioning of critical air cargo logistics.