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jlamb1
Adventurer C
I was thumbing through the November/December issue of AARP's magazine the other day, and read an interesting article about a few jobs that might be particularly attractive to the readers of AARP. 1) Ski greeter. That job seemed logical, i.e. getting paid to hang out at your favorite resort. 2) Cruise lecturer. Again…logical. Fun, getting paid to travel and meeting People from all over the world. 3) Airline Baggage Handler. Was this a misprint? I've spent just enough time on the ramp to know how hard our Ramp Agents work. But as I read on - flexible hours; good hourly wage; excellent health benefits; free travel, it makes a lot of sense for someone wanting a secure job with a great Company! The article quoted a baggage handler with another airline, "you needn't be a Superman", and "you need to be able to lift 60 pounds, which isn't hard if you're in reasonably good shape." With all of our growth in cities like Las Vegas, Phoenix, Baltimore, and Orlando we always seem to need People with Fun-LUVing attitudes and strong backs to work on the ramp. If you're a baby boomer (or not) and are interested in free travel and a meaningful job at a great place to work, go to www.southwest.com/careers We are closing the comments on this post because Jeff has written a new post on this very subject.
157 Comments
blusk
Aviator C
Hi Jeff, I worked the ramp for about ten years at my previous employer, Delta, and I loved every minute of it. For an airplane freak like me, working around aircraft was the ultimate, and it is a great place to learn the nuts and bolts of aviation. Yes it is hard work, but you work as a Team, and being part of a quick turn is like a winning football team or a ballet. It's a great job for folks who hate being tied to a desk and who like being outside. Even though it gets cold in the winter and hot in the summer, there are many days when you just look around and think, I wouldn't change my job for anything. When I first began, I told my father, who also worked for an airline, that I thought an airport ramp was a "sacred place," and I still think that way. Today, with all the security measures and enclosed jetbridges, most folks never get to see an aircraft "close up and personal" (to borrow ABC Sports old slogan), but you can on the ramp. The knowledge I gained on the ramp has been indispensable in my career. Brian
Dennis_M__Conlo
Explorer C
I thought working for SWA was a great idea. I went to the first interview in Philadelphia back in August and I was told I would be invited back for a second interview. I suppose I must have fallen through a crack in the system because three months have passed and no call or letter has been received.
jlamb1
Adventurer C
Dennis, I'm sorry we haven't been in touch. I will check into the matter. In the meantime please email your resume to me at (jeff.lamb@wnco.com) so that I may contact you directly. Thanks for your patience.
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
I had 2 FA interviews over the summer but again wasn't picked for training; I also went through both 7 years ago. I had 2 CSA & 2 RSA interviews last month & this month, but wasn't picked for training for either position. 😞 Can anyone tell me what they look for in interviews? I hope to find out what I can do to improve my chances of being invited back for training. I'm very outgoing, personable, enthusiastic, & I LUV to have fun; there are other qualities I can offer, one being that I'm fluent & still gaining fluency in American Sign Language. I have a lot of determination & want to work for SWA, but now my determination has gone way down. 😞
Jeff_Lamb
Explorer C
Leah, I am sorry that the interview process did not go as you hoped. We receive over 250,000 resumes a year for about 3000 open positions so I know it can be frustrating. If you will email me at jeff.lamb@wnco.com we can visit. Jeff
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Thanks, Jeff. I just sent you an email!
Donna22
Explorer C
Hi Jeff I had a group interview today in PHL. It was for operation agent, i never would have applied for that because I would like to be a fa, I have figured out pay wise what it would cost for commute and what I will bring home not to my advantage. I have placed so many apps in for FA and have done again today, If I get chosen for interview do you tjink that they can apply my group interview towards my FA interview and do my one on one in February or can you find out the status on my applications for FA?
jlamb1
Adventurer C
Donna, one of our Inflight Recruiters would be happy to answer that question for you and any others you might have regarding the Flight Attendant process. Call 214-792-4000 and ask to speak to our Inflight Recruiter.
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
I have a question, but rirst I'll say this: I've interviewed 4 times for FA (2 Groups & 2 One-on-Ones), twice for CSA, & twice for RSA; unfortunately, I wasn't picked for training for any position. 😞 I've never heard after my second FA (the more recent one), CSA, & RSA interviews what I can do to improve my chances of being invited for training. My question is-why can't people who weren't invited for training (for whatever position) be on a list for alternates if their interview went well? I noticed after I got my letter after my second FA interview last year that SWA was no longer hiring for that position, but later saw they were again; if people, let's say, didn't complete training, why can't they have those who had a good interview come back for training? I also noticed you're no longer hiring (at least for now) for RSA in OKC, which is where I interviewed, & that you're still accepting resumÃ
Shaky
Explorer C
I was hoping someone couls shed some light on the ramp agent salaries. I understand that after a year a ramp agents hourly rate is bumped up to 10.18hr. but what after that? I would think that there might be a "top out" mark too. So after maybe 10 years you top out at x-amount. Does anyone know? Thanks.
Leah3
Adventurer B
I'm not sure, Shaky. Maybe you could talk to a Ramp Agent. If you're interested, send in your resume! 🙂
Shaky
Explorer C
I did. We'll see what happens. I worked for United Airlines as a "multipurpose agent" ( worked the ticket counter, ramp, operations, gate, lost and found) for many years. Only to leave on account of too many paycuts and loss of pention. Heh. I guess bankruptcy could do that. 🐵
tconners
Explorer C
Hi Shaky, Thank you for your question regarding the Ramp Agent wage steps. I am a Field Employment Manager located in the Windy City-Chicago (Go Bears!). A wage step is defined as having completed one year of service with Southwest Airlines. For example, as you stated the first wage step for a Ramp Agent that has completed one year of service would go from $8.75/hour to $10.18/hour. In our current TWU contract, Step 5 is $14.97 and step 11 (top out) is currently $24.00. As you can see this is a competitive pay structure, especially when you add the value of our excellent benefits! I am also very happy to let you know that Southwest Airlines has never reduced the pay of our Employees, even during the very challenging times following 9/11/01. Hopefully, I have answered your question regarding Ramp Agent wages and we will see you in one of our Ramp Information Sessions in the near future! Tim Conners tim.conners@wnco.com
Shaky
Explorer C
Awesome!! I can't wait to attend and I plan to be a valuble asset to the company when hired as I beleive I was with United. (not to be so boastful of course)
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Good, Shaky! Please keep us updated. I'll bet you'll get interviews, & surely they'll pick you for training. It sounds like you have good experiences!
Shaky
Explorer C
Still waiting to hear from Mr. Conners. I hope that I can get into some kind of Ramp agent instructor position for Southwest after being a ramp agent. Is anyone here one of those types of instructors? :) Shaky
Donna23
Explorer C
I have been a skycakp/wheelchair attendant for southwest for some time now, and I just wanted to say that from my experience, Southwest is the best. They are a team and a family. I just got invited to a group interview for Customer Service. (Wish me Luck) I have always seen Southwest as a career and family, not a job. 🙂
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Southwest definitely is the best, Donna! When is your group interview for CSA, & where will it be? I've interviewed for that position, as well as for FA & RSA. Please let us know how things go! If I ever do get on with SWA, I too will feel like it's another career, as well as another family!
Ralph3
Explorer C
I received a letter from Southwest for a open interview session on 3/6/07 for CSA working at PHL. I know working at the airport must be exciting and challenging I have been in customer service mainly at banks for 20 years and supervised too. The salary doesn't look that great to start out but I am going because Southwest is such a great company and think a great and positive carrer change I just hope after the open session I get invited back for a second interview!!
Jeff_Lamb
Explorer C
I thank you all for your comments and wish you the best of luck! Just be yourself in the group sessions. Jeff
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Great, Ralph! Please let us know how things go. You & Donna will do well. 🙂
Ralph3
Explorer C
I went to the Group Interview Session today for a CSR at PHL and everything went real well. I was asked to fill out a Application and was told that a HR representative would be calling us in a few weeks. I will keep you updated but Southwest is awesome the session was fun not stuffy and did not make you feel nervous!
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Great job, Ralph! You're right, the sessions are fun! I enjoyed meeting other people, too. Southwest is So Wonderfully Awesome! 🙂
Gregory_Fox
Explorer C
I will be attending a Group Session on March 15, 2007 in Philly for a Ramp Agent. I was wondering how the process goes during a group session. I mainly have a customer service and sales back ground. I did apply for a Flight Attendant position and Ramp Agent. I have always dreamed of working for the Airlines. If anyone can help me out and give me some insight. My dreams will come true if I work for Southwest GO SOUTHWEST
tconners
Explorer C
Hi Gregory, I am glad that you are interested in Southwest Airlines! I am an Employment Manager working in Chicago, and Philadelphia is one of the cities I am fortunate to work with. SWA truly is a great Company to work for, but I guess you have probably already figured that out 😃 The Group Session can feel a bit odd at first if you have not participated in one before (at least, that is how I felt when first going) however, it can also be quite fun. Basically, the Group Information Session is broken into two parts and can last up to 2 hours. Part I involves a Recruiter and usually a member from the Philadelphia station describing the position and the benefits of the Company. Then we allow for a break in which one can reflect on the information shared and decide to stay or leave if one feels that the position would not be a good fit for him/her. The second part is when we get to know you a bit more and ask you a question. Once the Group Information Session is over we thank everyone for coming and provide information as to how/when you will hear from us. Again, I am glad that you are interested in Southwest Airlines and I hope you will be joining our family! Sincerely, Tim Conners
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
I hope your Group Session & Interview went well today, Gregory! Southwest is my favorite airline & it's the only one I want to work for. It's been my dream & goal since elementary school, & I'm not giving up! Please keep us informed. :) Southwest is So Wonderfully Awesome 🙂
Ralph3
Explorer C
Yeah!! Jennifer from the people department invited me back for a second interview for CSA at PHL on March 20, 2006 my application is filled out and hopefully in two weeks I will kiss my banking carrer good bye and be working for the Greatest thing to happen to Philadelphia since the Tastykake Butterscotch Krimpet!! 🙂
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Yea, Ralph! That's great! I remember how excited I was when I was called back for a second interview for RSA, CSA, & FA positions! Congratulations!
Kim19
Explorer C
I would like to know that once you pass your background check how long after do you get a call to say your hired.
tconners
Explorer C
Hi Kim, Thank you for your question! Ahhh, the words every job seeker wants to hear "You're Hired!". Well, once an individual has passed all of the background screening we look to see if the job the individual interviewed for is currently open. Then we look to see how many people, that were selected from their interviews have passed background, and we call them on a "first cleared" basis. If we are actively hiring for that position we provide at least two weeks notice as a courtesy to both the Applicant and their current Employer (Do unto others as you would have them do unto you- the ole Golden Rule). If we are not actively hiring we will contact the individual to let them know that they have passed the hiring process and will be placed in a "pool" until a position opens up. One can remain in a hiring pool for approximately 1 year, although in most locations that rarely occurs. If you have not heard from us recently please feel free to call our Employment Office and ask for the status on your background tests. I hope this provides you with the guidance you need. If not please feel free to email me (tim.conners@wnco.com) and I will be happy to assist you in any way I can. Looking forward to working with you soon! Tim Conners Regional Employment Manager/MDW
Ralph3
Explorer C
On Tuesday morning I will be taking a very early flight to MDW from PHL for the fingerprinting part of the backround check. Things are moving along thanks Tim I appreciate it!!
Beth9
Explorer C
Hi all! ^__^ I'm going to be attending a group session for prospective PHL Ramp Agents on Monday 4/16 (anybody else?) and I'm super excited. Southwest is (of course!) my favorite way to fly, and I've heard nothing but good things about working for the company. I'm a bit apprehensive about applying for this position (as a 24 yr old female, I assume I'll be a minority....), but besides the fact that it seems to be the only Southwest job in Philly hiring right now (and that I'm a currently unemployed recent college grad aka broke and need work asap! lol), it actually sounds like my perfect kind of job! I've always been fascinated by airplanes, so being able to get up close and personal is like a dream. I love the outdoors, and would much rather be out and about than cooped up inside. I prefer physical activity to sitting at a desk all day (gotta keep up that girlish figure! lol). And no matter how difficult a task is, I'm very motivated to work hard when I feel like I'm making a difference - and being able to work as a Ramp Agent for Southwest would definately fit the bill. I originally thought about going for a FA position, but with no bases nearby, I just wouldn't be able to swing it financially at this time (I need something I can commute to while continuing to live at home). Maybe someday. For now, though, I'd be unbelievably happy to work for Southwest as a Ramp Agent. I really really hope all goes well on Monday! I have actually been to what sounds like a similar group session for another company (not aviation related), and it was...well...kinda corny at times (they totally showed us '80's-style info videos lol), but still fun! Actually, I was wondering, are the group sessions pretty casual (as in jeans and a nice top), or should I "dress for success"? I kinda have a feeling jeans will be fine, I just don't want to start off on the wrong foot(wear?) right off the bat. ^__^
pcerda
Adventurer B
Beth, I wore khakis to my interview (either that or courderoys...I forget) and a button up short sleeve shirt. Worked out just fine. I'm not sure how PHL ramp is but I know from the new hire luncheon in January that PHX has a LOT of female ramp agents! Annnnnnnnnnnnnnnd.........they DID show us a video, but it was all the cool southwest commercials over the years, like the 70's with the FA's in hotpants and the FANTASTIC NFL commercials. They showed us the "Wanna get away?" commercials as well while they deliberated for the interview candidates. The best advice *I* have that I guess kinda worked for me (even though I had numerous years of telephone experience) is walk in with confidence. Walk in like you already got the job with a big ol' smile on your face. Don't think you can do the job, KNOW you can do the job.
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Hi, Beth. I've interviewed for FA, CSA, & RSA with SWA. Sometimes I wore dresses, & sometimes skirts. You sound like me! I've always been fascinated with aviation & I will always LUV to fly, especially on SWA, which is my favorite! I'm a college graduate, too, but it's been 2 1/2 years since I did.
Beth9
Explorer C
Great! ^__^ Thanks for all the advice and reassurance, guys. Though now I'm torn between wearing a skirt or khakis. lol I'll figure it out by tomorrow morning. At least I have all the paperwork I'll need all ready to go. I'm sooo excited! I really hope I make it to the next interview, but I'm looking forward to at least learning more about working for Southwest. And of course I can't wait to see if we'll get to watch the commercials video, too! lol In any case, I'll definately let you all know how it went. Wish me luck! ^__^
Tony11
Explorer C
hello.i apply for a ramp agent postion and i went on my interview on april 12 in sac,i was wondering how long does it take for them to get back at you letting you know you got hired?and if you dont get hired do they send you a letter.also iam in the back ground check stages right now.thanks tony
Jeff_Lamb
Explorer C
Tony, We would like to be able to notify everyone that interviewed faster but right now it stills take a couple of weeks. Best of luck to you and if you don't hear something by then let me know and I'll find out for you. Thank you so much for investing time with us. Jeff
Beth9
Explorer C
Hi again everyone. Wow! Today's group session for PHL ramp agents went really well. I'm happy to report that I've been interviewed, fingerprinted, and am now in the background check stages of the application process. ^__^ I ended up going with a pair of black pants and a nice sweater (and I'm so glad I asked about the jeans first because there were actually some people there in full suits! lol). I was super nervous during the interview, but I just smiled and joked right along with the recruiters and the next thing I knew they wanted my fingerprints. ^__^ Seems like a good sign, but I'll still keep my fingers crossed for the next few weeks.
Tony11
Explorer C
hey there, i apply and had a interview about two weeks ago.i havent heard anything.does anyone know if southwest notifeds people by mail or email saying they didnt qualify for the job.thanks
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Tony, you hear by phone or mail. If it's good, they call. They do let you know either way, though, so hopefully you'll get a call!
Terrance
Explorer C
I was offered a flight attendant position after two rounds of interviews. I got an email that said I would be notified upon completion of a background of the final offer. Just wondering what the criteria is for passing. My credit is not the best and I think I have an outstanding speeding ticket. Does anyone know just how much of an effect those things would have?
Jamie4
Explorer C
Hi~ I got the e-mail from Southwest Airlines for Group Info. Session tomorrow (For Customer Service Position). Do I need to take my resume and anything else? What is Group Info. Session?? Someone please help me!!!! I want this job so bad!!!!!!!!
Karen_P_
Explorer C
Hello... I just submitted an online FA application ..How will I get contacted if they are interested, and what else can I do to get a FA ( interview get hired ect.) for Southwest..They seem like THE BEST to work for...I want THIS JOB!! Thanks, K.P.
Arnold
Explorer C
Hello. I just want to know how long does it take after the Group session to get a one on one interview. And would one know if they are invited for a one on one on the day of the group session. Also would being a Army veteran give me a edge over the other applicants? Thanks
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
Hi, Arnold. As for your first question, you will either find out the day of your Group Interview, or you will wait two-three or four weeks. If you find out you go back for a second the same day, you may stay, or you may come back. As for your second question, I don't know! Sorry.
tconners
Explorer C
Hi Arnold, Well, it sounds like you have attended one of our Group Information Sessions, I hope it was informational as well as enjoyable 😃 On average, it can take approximately 2-3 weeks to receive the results regarding your interview. We would like to get back to folks quicker however, there are several steps involved in this process which can be time consuming. As you may already know Southwest Airlines receives approximately 250,000 resumes year, whew! We are sooooo fortunate and grateful to have that kind of interest! If you have been waiting longer than 3 weeks it truly is ok to call the office and inquire about your interview results. If you do not have the phone number you can contact 214-792-4000 and your call will be directed to the appropriate location. As for your second question regarding your Veteran status, while your service to our Country is admirable it is not factored into the decision to hire or not to hire. Our Recruiters focus on your skills, abilities, work history and work style. We know that there are great Employees in many different fields with diverse experiences and skills. So we ask questions that will provide you an opportunity to show off those great talents and skills. Southwest Airlines values all of your work experience however, we spend most of our time getting to know how you work rather than where you've worked. I hope I have answered your questions. If not, please feel free to email me and we can discuss these topics further. (tim.conners@wnco.com) Good luck to you and thank you for serving our Country! Tim Conners
Nicole1111
Explorer C
hello i was invited to attend a customer service group session at bwi and i wanted to know are there anyways i can prepare for this interview cause i really want this job this company sounds so wonderful and I've been chatting with a few customer service agents and they all are so nice and also what goes on during the 2 1/2 week training session in Dallas and does everyone have to attend or just certain positions Thanks
Shari_Perez
Explorer B
Nicole - Congratulations on your interview for the Customer Service Agent position in BWI! Thank you so much for your interest in joining the Southwest Airlines family, it sounds like you have done your homework on the position. At Southwest we conduct behavior based interviews - meaning, what you have done in the past is what we can expect for you to do at Southwest. We are looking for those outstanding individuals whose values will match the Southwest Airlines Mission: THE MISSION OF SOUTHWEST AIRLINES The mission of Southwest Airlines is dedication to the highest quality of Customer Service delivered with a sense of warmth, friendliness, individual pride, and Company Spirit. My advice to you is to just be yourself, learn as much about the position as you can to ensure it is a good fit for you, and have fun!! And yes, all Customer Service Agents must attend and successfully complete (90% GPA or above on all tests) a 2 1/2 week training session in Dallas. Good luck on your interview!
BJ3
Explorer C
Greetings! I applied for an FA position on-line June 1st, several weeks ago. Can anyone advise me how long it is before I am contacted regarding a group interview or if my application meets the criteria standards? SouthWest is the only airline I know; I've flown with it for several years now and have never flown another. It's the only career path I want, and am eagerly waiting for an invitation by mail or email. I appreciate any assistance regarding the time line and the hiring process. I do understand the competative nature of the applications recieved; but I know the flight attendant on my last flight was correct by saying that "SouthWest will LUV you". : )) Thanks, BJ
Leah4
Frequent Flyer B
I'm the same way, BJ! Well, I fly other airlines in addition to Southwest, because sometimes I have to-even though I wish I could fly SWA everywhere I go! When I sent in my FA resumÃ