Equipment Operator

About the Role

The Equipment Operator will support ground handling operations at the airport under the guidance of the Apron Supervisor or Ground Handling Manager. The role involves strict adherence to federal and international aviation regulations as organized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), ensuring safe and efficient ground services.

Key Responsibilities

• Record equipment assignment times accurately in charge notes for airline or customer billing.
• Report to the designated supervisor at each shift's start and execute assigned tasks diligently.
• Carry out pre-operational inspections, fill out checklists, promptly report equipment defects, and ensure cleanliness and serviceability of equipment used.
• Operate approved ground support equipment and service vehicles after completing necessary training and competency assessments.
• Optimize equipment use and minimize fuel consumption while complying with airport regulations, safety protocols, and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Maintain clear communication and coordination with supervisors and ramp teams to promote safe and efficient ramp activities.
• Collaborate professionally with colleagues, assist ramp staff and aircraft cleaners as needed.
• Comply with Quality, Health, Safety, Security, and Environmental (QHSSE) standards and participate in investigations and safety risk assessments.
• Follow airside driving norms, equipment operating procedures, aircraft safety clearances, and all airport safety mandates.
• Conduct routine Foreign Object Debris (FOD) inspections and wing-walking duties as assigned; report hazards, incidents, or unsafe conditions promptly.
• Identify and handle lost property per airport protocols.
• Maintain professional grooming, hygiene, wear prescribed uniforms and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and deliver courteous customer service.
• Learn and support marshalling and headset communication procedures post training and certification.

Communication & Reporting

• Report tasks and status regularly to supervisors and collaborate with internal teams such as Apron/Ground Handling Supervisor, Controller, Ground Handling Manager, and Airport Duty Officer.
• Interact operationally with external airlines and various departments as needed.

Qualifications & Experience

• Good general education and fluency in English (spoken and written); Arabic language skills are advantageous, especially for radio telephony (RT) and headset communications.
• Possession of a valid UAE driving license.
• At least one year of driving experience and prior work exposure within a continuous operational (24/7) environment, preferably in logistics, transportation, or aviation sectors.
• Ability to operate ground handling equipment and vehicles upon clearance and qualification by the competent department.

Safety Responsibilities

• Adhere to safety procedures as per the Aerodrome Operations Manual, Safety Management System, and directives from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.
• Follow safety training protocols and notify supervisors or safety departments immediately about safety incidents, failures, or potential risks.
• Submit accident or incident reports when applicable and support safety audits and investigations.

Competencies

• Strong ability to learn quickly and implement new knowledge.
• High levels of positivity, diligence, vigilance, responsibility, initiative, and ownership.
• Good problem-solving aptitude.
• Ability to work well within teams, adapt to change, and share constructive feedback.
• Flexibility with work schedules, including day and night shifts.
• Maintain punctuality, appropriate grooming, and compliance with PPE requirements.
• Capacity to identify hazards and report risks effectively.
• Competent communication skills with moderate English proficiency.
• Basic computing skills in MS Word and MS Excel.
• Ability to perform basic mechanical and technical checks on equipment.

Additional Information

The position is entry-level, full-time, based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, within the airline and aviation sector. The employer emphasizes a safe, compliant, and team-oriented working environment focused on operational excellence at the airport ramp and ground handling services.