Intern - Catering Operations (Summer 2025) - Military Veterans
at United Airlines
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.
Chicago, IL
With great people, the world’s most comprehensive global route network, the best current aircraft order book among U.S. network carriers and the industry-leading loyalty program, United is well positioned to deliver meaningful profitability and sustainable long-term value for our customers, the communities we serve, our shareholders and our co-workers around the world. United is committed to investing in those who have served and are serving our country. United has hired thousands of veterans who bring valuable skills, expertise and professionalism to our airline.
United4Veterans
United is committed to investing in those who have served and are serving our country. United has hired thousands of veterans who bring valuable skills, expertise, and professionalism to our airline.
United4Veterans business resource group recruits, retains, and develops veterans. This group facilitates a buddy mentorship program where veteran employees are matched to provide support and guidance throughout their career at United Airlines.
Showing Gratitude
At United, we are immensely grateful for the dedication, courage and bravery of our veteran and reservist employees. Not only do they serve our country, but they also bring a standard of excellence and professionalism to the job daily.
Benefits
To become the world’s greatest airline, we need the greatest benefits. We offer a competitive benefits package that will keep you happy, healthy, and well-traveled.
Please copy and paste the URL below to review our greatest benefits!
https://careers.united.com/us/en/benefits
Ready to get started? Review our job opportunities and apply today to grow your career with United!