Airline customer service agent

In this role you could:

• help passengers with self-serve or assisted check in procedures
•  deal with passenger flight queries
•  verify travel documents and provide boarding passes
•  tell passengers about luggage restrictions
•  weigh baggage and collect any excess weight charges
•  take care of children travelling alone, VIPs and people who need special assistance
•  follow strict safety and security measures
•  update computerised records and use equipment like scanners

• customer service skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with others
• sensitivity and understanding
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• active listening skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You may find it useful if you can speak a second language for some jobs.

Some employers may prefer you to live near the airport or have your own transport. This is because shifts may be at times when public transport is limited.

You can get into this job through:

• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

With experience, you could progress to a supervisory role, or a management position like flight dispatcher.

You could also move into other areas of airport operations, or train to become a cabin crew member.