Southwest Airlines Needs Entry Level Operations Agent in Decatur
Opportunity in Decatur
Key Information
- Career Level: Trainee.
- Position: Entry Level Operations Agent (Flexible/Contract, Decatur)
- Location: Decatur, IL
- Employer: Southwest Airlines (Hiring in Decatur)
- This Decatur-based role is an excellent opportunity for professionals skilled in Teamwork.
- Our Southwest Airlines team in Decatur, IL is growing.
- Benefit from working in Decatur, a key hub for the Airlines, Aviation, Operations, Logistics, Physical Labor, Entry Level industry.
Salary and Benefits
- Compensation: $38k-$55k/Year (approx. $894/Week)
- Benefits: A competitive compensation package is offered.
- Project-based work with clear objectives.
What You'll Do
- Apply your Teamwork skills at our Decatur location.
Do you have a 'Warrior Spirit' and a 'Servant's Heart'? Join Southwest Airlines, the airline with 'LUV', as an 'entry level' Operations Agent at our major Chicago-Midway (MDW) base. This is a physically demanding, fast-paced 'below-the-wing' role where you are responsible for the industry's fastest and safest aircraft turns. 'No experience' is required; we provide world-class paid training. About Southwest Airlines: For over 50 years, Southwest has been connecting People to what's important in their lives. We are built on a foundation of 'LUV' and a 'Fun-LUVing Attitude', with a workforce of over 74,000 Employees. We are the nation's largest domestic carrier, known for our legendary customer service, Bags Fly Free® policy, and our unwavering commitment to our People. We don't just have Employees; we have a Family. Your Role as an Operations Agent: This is the muscle behind the operation. You are part of a team working on the ramp, in all weather conditions, to ensure flights depart safely and on time. You will be marshaling aircraft, loading and unloading baggage (up to 70 lbs), and operating heavy ground equipment. This is a 'physical labor' job that requires teamwork, speed, and a fanatical attention to safety. You are the reason our planes get in and out so quickly. Your Day-to-Day: Your shift is a workout. A 'day shift' in summer means working in the heat, while a 'night shift' in a Chicago winter means de-icing aircraft in the freezing cold. This is a 24/7 operation. You must have open availability to work any shift, including early mornings (4 AM starts), late nights (1 AM finishes), every 'weekend shift', and all holidays. This union-based position relies on seniority for shift bidding, so new hires will typically work 'night shift' and 'weekend' schedules. Overtime is frequently available. Training & Onboarding: We hire for attitude and train for skill. You will attend comprehensive paid training, both in the classroom and on-the-job at MDW, as well as at our state-of-the-art training facility in Dallas, Texas. You will learn to operate all ground equipment, from belt-loaders to pushback tugs, and become an expert in ramp safety. Career & Compensation: Southwest offers a competitive starting wage, with an estimated annual base salary for this role between $38,000 and $55,000 (plus overtime opportunities). We offer a legendary benefits package, including a 401(k) with an incredible company match, profit sharing, and free, unlimited travel privileges for you, your family, and your parents on Southwest. This role is a gateway to the entire company, with many ramp agents growing into leadership, maintenance, or corporate roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Southwest Airlines Needs Entry Level Operations Agent in Decatur position pay at Southwest Airlines?
This role offers a pay range of $38,000 - $55,000. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, base/airport, seniority, and shift at Southwest Airlines in Decatur.
Where is this Southwest Airlines Needs Entry Level Operations Agent in Decatur job based?
This position is based at the airport serving Decatur, IL. Southwest Airlines operates at airports across the region, but this specific opening is tied to the Decatur base.
Do I need prior airline experience for this Southwest Airlines Needs Entry Level Operations Agent in Decatur job?
No prior airline experience is required. Southwest Airlines provides paid training for new hires. This is an entry-level opportunity open to candidates with customer service, logistics, or related backgrounds.
What are the overnight shift hours for this position?
Overnight airport shifts at Southwest Airlines in Decatur typically run from approximately 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, though exact times vary by airline and operation. Overnight roles usually include shift differential pay on top of base rate.
Does Southwest Airlines offer flight benefits for this role?
Yes. Southwest Airlines extends flight privileges to employees — free standby travel on the airline's flights and deeply discounted confirmed tickets worldwide — typically for you, your spouse, parents, and eligible children. Benefits start on Day 1 or within the first 30–90 days depending on role.
What health benefits does Southwest Airlines offer?
Southwest Airlines provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and an employee assistance program. Benefits usually start on Day 1 for full-time employees.
