Intern - Resource Planning - Industrial Engineering (Summer 2027)

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.

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.

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 2027

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

Undergraduate student graduating in Winter 2027 or Spring 2028

Proficiency in Python

Demonstrated understanding of the capabilities and limitations of generative AI tools and the ability to leverage AI effectively to support research, analysis, content creation, and problem-solving. Applies critical thinking to validate AI-generated outputs while adhering to organizational policies related to responsible AI use, data privacy, and security.

Posting dates: September 1, 2026 through September 8, 2026