Cargo Agent (Import/Export)- Aviation in London

Optime Group are excited to be recruiting for Cargo Agents to join a well-respected and successful client in Heathrow.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to additional security checks required for this role, successful applicants MUST have lived in the UK for the last 5 years, with 3 years full UK history.

What’s on offer:

• Rate of Pay: £14.50
• Shift Pattern: 4 days on / 4 days off
• Shift Times:
• Early Shift: 05:00 – 17:00
• Day Shift: 07:00 – 19:00
• Late Shift: 10:00 – 22:00

The Airport is operational 7 days per week and candidates will be working on a 4 on 4 off rolling rota and you will need to be fully flexible with the days and hours you can work. This could be subject to change!

Full training provided — candidates will complete a full-time training period before moving onto the 4-on/4-off rota.

Benefits:

• Weekly pay (every Friday)
• Temp-to-Permanent opportunity (based on performance after 12 weeks)

Start Date: As soon as successful candidates are fully CAA compliant and have completed all required training.

Key Duties:

• Load and unload vehicles carrying a wide range of cargo using forklift trucks and other mechanical handling equipment, as well as undertaking manual handling duties where required.
• Use hand-held scanning devices to accurately locate, identify, and track cargo.
• Complete and process all associated paperwork in line with client and operational requirements.
• Handle special cargo products in accordance with specific handling procedures and safety standards.
• Build and break down pallets to meet storage and distribution needs.
• Carry out manual handling tasks safely and in line with health & safety guidelines.
• Prepare, secure, and palletise cargo as required for storage or onward transport.

Candidate Requirements:

• A minimum of six months’ proven experience in import and export procedures.
• Strong working knowledge of ABS (Automated Border System).
• Previous experience using iCargo is beneficial as well.
• Ability to work a rotating shift pattern.
• A flexible, reliable and professional approach.
• Strong communication, organisational and customer-service skills.
• Must hold a valid Passport or Driving Licence / Birth Certificate or National ID card.
• This role requires you to stand for long periods of time (8 hours).
• UK Settled Status (If applicable).
• Proof of National Insurance.
• Proof of (current) Address.
• 5 Year Address History.
• 5 Year Work Reference History.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a basic criminal record check following the interview in line with CAA requirements.

Key responsibilities:

• Coordinating cargo bookings, deliveries and collections accurately and efficiently.
• Managing allocated tasks and ensuring operational deadlines are met.
• Communicating effectively with internal teams, suppliers and customers by email, telephone and face-to-face.
• Providing practical, hands-on support to the wider operation when required.
• Using Outlook, Excel, Google Calendar and other standard software to manage daily tasks.
• Prioritising workloads and maintaining accuracy and efficiency during busy periods.
• Collaborating with colleagues and providing regular operational updates.
• Delivering a consistently professional and friendly standard of customer service.

Training and support provided:

• Full vetting and security-clearance process, covered by the client.
• Dangerous Goods training.
• Manual Handling training.
• Health and Safety training.
• Professional development and career-progression opportunities within a leading air-freight operation.

Please note: As this is an airport role, successful candidates must pass security checks in-line with CAA regulations. These checks include 5-year work and address history, DBS (must have no disqualifying criminal convictions), valid Right to Work.

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