About PNG Air

PNG Air stands as the premier airline of Papua New Guinea, renowned for its extensive network covering over 26 destinations throughout the country. Operating the largest fleet of ATR 72-600 series aircraft in the region, PNG Air is committed to delivering reliable, safe, and efficient air travel and cargo services to communities across the nation. As the Airline of Choice in Papua New Guinea, we connect people, businesses, and remote communities through our comprehensive route network that spans from bustling urban centers to some of the most isolated regions in the Pacific. Our operations are grounded in a commitment to safety, operational excellence, and service to the people of Papua New Guinea.

Role: Cargo Officer – Alotau

PNG Air is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Cargo Officer to join our operations team based in Alotau, Milne Bay Province. This position plays a critical role in ensuring the seamless handling, documentation, and transportation of cargo across our domestic network. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing cargo operations at the Alotau airport station, coordinating with ground handling teams, freight customers, and internal departments to ensure that all shipments are processed accurately, safely, and within regulatory timeframes. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional with logistics or cargo experience who thrives in a fast-paced aviation environment and is passionate about contributing to the connectivity and economic development of Papua New Guinea’s island provinces.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and oversee all cargo operations at the Alotau airport station, including the acceptance, loading, unloading, and dispatch of freight on PNG Air flights, ensuring compliance with weight and balance requirements.
Prepare and verify all cargo documentation including airway bills, cargo manifests, delivery receipts, and customs clearance paperwork, maintaining 100% accuracy in accordance with IATA and Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) PNG regulations.
Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs agents, and third-party logistics providers to ensure timely processing and clearance of inbound and outbound cargo shipments.
Perform thorough inspections of all cargo to verify proper packaging, labeling, and compliance with dangerous goods regulations (IATA DGR), flagging and quarantining any non-compliant shipments immediately.
Operate and maintain cargo tracking systems and databases, entering real-time shipment data to provide accurate status updates to customers and internal stakeholders.
Ensure strict adherence to PNG Air’s safety management system (SMS) protocols, conducting pre-shift equipment inspections and reporting any hazards or incidents through the company’s safety reporting channels.
Liaise with flight crews and loadmasters to confirm cargo load plans, ensuring proper weight distribution and securing of freight in accordance with aircraft load and trim specifications for the ATR 72-600 fleet.
Handle customer inquiries related to cargo rates, flight schedules, shipment tracking, and claims, providing professional and timely responses to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
Prepare daily operational reports, cargo revenue summaries, and station performance metrics for submission to the Cargo Manager and regional operations leadership.
Train and mentor junior ground handling and cargo staff on standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and customer service standards, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the Alotau station team.
Coordinate with the PNG Air maintenance and engineering teams to ensure that cargo handling equipment including belt loaders, tugs, and dollies are serviceable and meet operational safety standards.

Work Environment & Culture

Working at PNG Air means being part of a close-knit, mission-driven team that understands the unique challenges and rewards of aviation in Papua New Guinea. Our Alotau station is a vital hub connecting Milne Bay Province to the rest of the country, and you will be working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where no two days are the same. We foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and respect for the diverse cultures and communities we serve. You will be provided with comprehensive training, branded uniforms, and all necessary personal protective equipment. The role requires physical activity including standing for extended periods, working in varying weather conditions, and handling freight of different sizes and weights. Shift work may be required to accommodate early morning and late evening flight schedules.

Candidate Requirements

Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in cargo operations, logistics, warehousing, or freight forwarding, preferably within the aviation or airline industry.
Strong knowledge of IATA cargo regulations, dangerous goods handling procedures (IATA DGR Category 5 minimum), and international air freight standards.
Proficiency in cargo management and tracking systems (e.g., CHAMP Cargospa, Sabre, or equivalent platforms) as well as standard Microsoft Office applications.
Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in Tok Pisin is highly desirable and considered a significant advantage for community engagement.
Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision while also functioning effectively as part of a distributed team across multiple PNG Air stations.
Physical fitness and ability to perform manual handling tasks including lifting up to 25 kg, standing for prolonged periods, and working outdoors in tropical conditions.
Valid PNG driver’s license (Class 1 minimum) is preferred for cargo transport coordination between airport facilities.

Technical Skills & Tools

Cargo management systems: CHAMP Cargospa, Sabre CargoFlite, or equivalent
Documentation: Airway Bills (AWB), cargo manifests, Dangerous Goods Declarations, Shipper’s Letters of Instruction
Regulatory compliance: IATA Resolution 650, IATA DGR, CASA PNG airworthiness directives
Software: Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, email platforms, and internal PNG Air operational systems
Equipment operation: Belt loaders, cargo tugs, dollies, pallet jacks, and forklifts (certification preferred)
Safety systems: Safety Management System (SMS) reporting tools, hazard identification checklists
Customs and border procedures: PNG Customs Service documentation and clearance protocols

Benefits & Compensation

PNG Air offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include a base salary aligned with industry standards for the PNG aviation sector, annual leave entitlements in accordance with PNG National Employment Standards, and access to company-sponsored travel benefits including discounted flights across the PNG Air network. The position also provides opportunities for professional development through IATA-certified training programs, internal upskilling workshops, and career progression within PNG Air’s growing cargo and logistics division. Additional benefits include meal allowances for operational shifts, uniform provision, and access to employee wellness support programs.

Career Growth Opportunities

PNG Air invests in the long-term development of its employees. A Cargo Officer who demonstrates strong performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to operational excellence can progress to roles such as Senior Cargo Officer, Station Supervisor, Cargo Operations Manager, or positions within the airline’s broader commercial and network planning teams. With PNG Air’s continued expansion of its domestic and regional services, there are tangible opportunities for career advancement and increased responsibility within the organization.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a detailed curriculum vitae, cover letter, copies of relevant qualifications and certifications, and contact details for at least three professional referees. Applications should be sent via email to HR-Recruitment@pngair.com.pg with the subject line “Application – Cargo Officer, Alotau.” For inquiries, you may also contact the PNG Air Human Resources team by phone at +675 302 3263. Please note that the application closing date is February 20, 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview. PNG Air is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background.