Intern - Pilot Workforce Planning and Strategy (Summer 2026)

What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications)\: 

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree program
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills
• Proven proficiency in Microsoft Office, specifically PowerPoint and Excel
  • PowerPoint\: charts, visualization, Thinkcell
  • Excel\: pivot tables, advanced formulas, basic modeling
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills
• Intellectual curiosity, desire to learn, ability to take initiative
• Demonstrated leadership and ownership of work
• Position is based in Chicago, IL – must be able to relocate
• Intern duration is 10-12 weeks during Summer 2026
• Applicant must be legal 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 this position

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

• Pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering, Data Analytics, Computer Science, Aviation Management, Operations Management, Business Analytics or other related quantitative field
• Anticipated graduation between December 2026 & June 2027
• Experience with SQL or Python
• Experience with PowerBI or Palantir Foundry

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.

Overview
Our Flight Operations team is at the leading edge of the airline industry, working hard to connect people and unite the world safely, reliably, and efficiently every single day by hiring, training, qualifying, and supporting the best pilots in the industry.  The Flight Operations Crew Resources Planning & Analysis team supports this mission through planning that spans two months to five years out, covering everything from long term forecasts for pilot hiring and training to building and awarding pilots’ monthly schedules. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop fleet and crew base strategy in alignment with evolving Network Planning schedules tied to United’s growth plans
• Analyze crew reserve trends to develop a refined forecast for planning reserve support for operational reliability
• Utilize data analytics and visualization technologies to review and communicate key trends in our pilot workforce
• Evaluate and analyze trends in our monthly schedule build processes, identifying opportunities for efficiency as well as improvement to pilot quality of life

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.