Chicago Ramp Agent Jobs

Our Heart starts with our People.​​​​​​​

Our Ramp Agents ensure Ground Operations run smoothly and safely by supporting various roles “below the wing,” including directing planes on the ground and transporting baggage, cargo, and other flight essentials in the outdoor elements. Ramp Agents are also problem solvers who enjoy working collaboratively with other Ground Operations Teams to meet flight departure timelines.

Our benefits aren’t playing around:
  • Starting pay of $18/hour with opportunities for overtime and shift pick-ups​​​​​​​

  • Fly for free on any open seat on all Southwest® flights (your eligible dependents fly, too)
  • Up to a 9.3% 401(k) Company match, dollar for dollar, per paycheck*
  • An annual ProfitSharing contribution toward retirement—when we profit, you profit**
  • Competitive health insurance for you and your family
  • Opportunity to get 10% off Southwest Airlines® common stock

Wanna work outdoors and get your fitness in at the "office”? Let us know how to reach you and we’ll keep you updated on the latest job opportunities.
Stay updated on jobs
Wide shot of ramp agents deicing a Southwest airplane in the snow from a crane.
There's snow place like Southwest. 
A day in the life of a Ramp Agent with Tim M., a Ramp Agent Supervisor.
Ramp Agent marshalling a plane in the snow

Requirements for the Ramp

Southwest Ramp Agent loading bags onto a plane
Physical requirements
  • Must be able to routinely lift and move items weighing 70 pounds or more and repetitively lift weights of 40 to 50 pounds on raised surfaces
  • Must be able to climb, bend, kneel, crawl, and stoop frequently and for extended periods
  • Must be able to work in cramped or high places
Southwest ramp agent unloading bags from a plane
Age and Legal requirements
  • Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application
  • Must have authorization to work in the United States as defined by the Immigration Reform Act of 1986
  • Must be able to work various shifts and/or overtime
Southwest Ramp Agent marshalling in a plane
Education and Qualifications
  • Must have a valid state motor vehicle operator’s license
  • Must be able to pass all required background clearances
Southwest Ramp Agent marshalling in a plane
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“Southwest has proven to be the perfect place for me—they equip me to reach my goals, find my best fit, and allow me to help others.” 
Check out how former Ramp Agent Jimmy B. transformed his career at Southwest by turning his passion for programming into a career he loves.
Chris Johnson, Vice President Ground Operations

“I started my career as a Ramp Agent nearly 30 years ago. I’ve always loved the airline industry and knew being on the ground would give me the invaluable experience I needed to grow—it did that and so much more.”

- Chris Johnson,

Vice President Ground Operations

How to apply

If you see an open Ramp Agent position posted, you can apply on careers.southwestair.com. If there are no open Ramp Agent positions posted, that means we're not interviewing for that job at this time.


You can only apply for a job at Southwest Airlines through this site. Fees don't fly here—we’ll never ask for a form of payment for your application or training.

Why Southwest Airlines?

Portrait of female ramp agent smiling and standing in front of a full baggage cart.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
We're committed to a work environment where everyone can be themselves and be recognized for the unique perspectives they each bring forward. Diversity, equity, and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords—they’re woven into the way we run our business, and they’re reflected in our world-famous Culture.
Read about our diversity initiatives
Image of two ramp agents laughing in a cargo bin.
Culture
​​​​​​​Our Culture is integral to all aspects of our business and our Employees’ lives from the way Employees treat each other to the way that our Company puts our Employees first. Three vital elements of our Culture are appreciation, recognition, and celebration.
Explore our Culture
Group photo of 19 Ramp Agents and veterans at Dallas Love Field.
Military
In addition to the Ramp Agents photographed above, we're proud to have more than 9,800 veterans and 1,800 military spouses in our Southwest Family. Our colors may be red, yellow, and blue, but our support is for the red, white, and blue.
Learn about our military programs
Image of female ramp agent stacking bags inside the belly of an airplane.
Benefits
More than just a paycheck, a career at Southwest Airlines comes with several benefits, from our legendary Culture to travel privileges for Employees and their eligible dependents.
See our benefits

Questions we get a lot.

Click each FAQ below to learn more about what it's like to be a Southwest Ramp Agent.

*401(k) match contributions are subject to the plan’s vesting schedule.
**ProfitSharing contributions are subject to the plan’s vesting schedule and are made at the discretion of the Company. 

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Southwest Airlines® is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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