Job Information
United Airlines Intern - Catering Operations (Summer 2025) in Chicago, Illinois
Description
Early careers take off with United! We’ve been recognized as both a top employer for Gen Z talent by Handshake and a top 100 internship program by Yellow and WayUp. 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.
The Catering Operations team oversees the preparation and catering of food at contract catering locations located around the world. Contracted caterers must have robust processes in place to meet United Airlines standards of safety, environment, security, quality and food safety and operational requirements as defined in the Catering Operations Business Manual. Caterer performance is monitored through the utilization of data tracked in multiple systems against several key performance indicators (KPI) to focus on continuous improvement. The focus is on meeting the needs of external customers and internal customers i.e., pilot, and Inflight crew through flawless execution by contract caterers. Assignments will be with the Operations or Strategy and Support team within Catering Operations.
Operations – The Catering Operations team is responsible for management and oversight of the day to day operation of 140 global catering locations. Potential projects include:
Utilize root cause analysis and robust corrective action plans to prevent recurrence of defects
Engage in troubleshooting and in the moment resolution to achieve operating goals
Assist with audits of contract caterers
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency at contract caterers
Strategy and Support – The Strategy and Support team is responsible for long term planning, ground safety and security, performance reporting, and management of tools and technology to support the overall operation. Potential projects include:
Collaborate cross-functionally to execute and implement improvement initiatives
Analyze caterer performance data and identify trends
Assist with audits of contract caterers
United values diverse experiences, perspectives, and we encourage everyone who meets the minimum qualifications to apply. While having the “desired” qualifications make for a stronger candidate, we encourage applicants who may not feel they check ALL of those boxes! We are always looking for individuals who will bring something new to the table.
Qualifications
What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Business Administration, Food Science, Data Analytics or similar field
Ability to synthesize and analyze data
Proficient Microsoft Office skills with emphasis in PowerPoint, Excel, and Word
Motivated and detail-oriented
Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualifications
Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
Position is located in Chicago, IL
What will help you propel from the pack (Preferred Qualifications):
Project Management experience
Proficient in Excel
Leadership Experience
Willing to travel
Exposure to Lean Manufacturing principles
United Airlines is an equal opportunity employer. United Airlines recruits, employs, trains, compensates and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, age, veteran status and other protected status as required by applicable law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform crucial job functions. Please contact JobAccommodations@united.com to request accommodation.