Intern - Airport Operations (ORD) (Summer 2026)

At United, we offer internships, co-ops, and full-time opportunities for early career professionals. In any role, you’re a key member of our team, contributing to real projects that help move the business forward while gaining hands-on experience, growing your professional skill set, and connecting with industry leaders. You’ll also have a chance to build community through our employee-run Business Resource Groups, participate in industry conferences, and enjoy unlimited standby travel anywhere we fly.

At United, we fly into airports around the entire world. And we need a whole team of people to keep things running in tip-top shape. From the check-in counter to the departure gate, and even behind the scenes, our Airport Operations team keeps operations at our airports running smoothly every single day.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as an internal consultant, providing business analyses to management of various operating divisions on challenges and opportunities facing the airline
• This may include one or more of the following: strategy, innovation and process improvement initiatives, performance analysis and data visualization, baggage performance, change management, safety and regulatory compliance, and station operations planning
• Potential assignments include analyzing operational performance, developing strategic plans, establishing performance metrics, and working with company organizations to analyze growth opportunities
• Interns are also responsible for studying organizational changes, communications, information flow, integrated production methods, and gathering and organizing information regarding problems and procedures
• They analyze information gathered, interpret data from various sources, and consider available solutions or alternative methods of proceeding, as may be required
• Job duties may vary based on location & team assigned. Teams in which you may be assigned could include:
• Projects & Executions
• Ramp
• Business
• Customer Service
• Station Operations Center

This internship is designed solely to provide you with skill development and valuable work experience. This role will likely not convert to a full-time position at United at the conclusion of the internship.

What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):

·       Must be an undergraduate or graduate student at the time of start pursuing a degree in Aviation Management, Business, Industrial Engineering, Business Management, Data Analytics, or a related quantitative field of study

·       Proven proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

·       Strong quantitative and problem-solving skills

·       Applicant must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship or future sponsorship

What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):

• Interest in the operational environment and the airline industry
• Previous airline, operations, or project management experience