Intern - Resource Planning - Industrial Engineering (Summer 2026)
Early careers take off with United! We’ve been recognized as a top employer for Gen Z talent by Handshake. Interns at United enjoy a wealth of benefits, including a robust mentorship program, exclusive travel privileges, and engaging social events to help foster a vibrant and connected community of early career professionals. Our program is designed to empower you with the skills and connections necessary to launch a successful career. We hope you join us at United, where your contributions will take flight and your career journey will soar.
During your summer experience, you will be fully immersed into our collaborative culture that is built on diversity of thought. This team is looking for your curiosity and unique point of view. We will look to push your development as an analyst and a leader alike through comprehensive, on-the-job training, leadership development workshops and personalized summer liaisons to help you navigate your internship. Interns will be given meaningful projects along with the opportunity to interact with and present to leadership. Primary responsibilities include the following (but are not limited to):
- Employing resource planning tool, staffing standards, volume forecast and labor constraints to develop optimal staffing recommendations for future flight schedules for assigned stations
- Assist in the creation of accurate budgets and forecasts which will be used for informed decision making and in providing accurate external financial guidance
- Applying models to generate annual operating plans as well as an 18-month rolling forecast
- Providing variance analysis and explanation to divisional leadership, senior leadership, and the Finance Division
- Providing ad-hoc budget and forecast scenario analysis as required
- May also capture best practice data and may make program/process recommendations to support corporate/division programs and policy updates
- May support ongoing or special analyses related to future flight schedules, potential staffing standards changes, strategic initiatives and potential changes to labor agreements
In addition, your understanding of United Airlines as a company and the airline industry will be enhanced through chats with leadership and behind-the-scenes tours of airport, baggage, and maintenance operations and/or crew training facilities.
This internship may be eligible for full-time conversion based on performance in role, position availability and overall operational need, potentially offering a direct pathway to a career with us.
What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
- Must be a current undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering, Finance, or related area of study and demonstrating strong academic performance with at least one semester left of education post internship
- Proven proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint)
- Ability to handle simultaneous projects and adapt to a fast-paced, changing environment
- Solid interpersonal skills with a focus on collaboration
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Position is based in Chicago, IL – must be able to relocate
- Intern duration is 10-12 weeks during Summer 2026
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship now and in the future
- Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualifications
- Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position
What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
- Undergraduate student graduating in Winter 2026 or Spring 2027
- Proficiency in Python