Intern - Environmental Affairs: Sustainable Aviation Fuel (Summer 2026)

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.

Position Overview

The Environmental Affairs – Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) internship offers an outstanding opportunity to work on collaborative projects that demonstrate our commitment to reduce United’s environmental impact.

This position offers students an opportunity to work on cross-functional teams to support United’s SAF adoption. The intern will develop project management and analytical skills; gain experience presenting to various audiences, including leadership; and support the strategic development and implementation of new processes and technologies related to environmental compliance requirements and sustainability goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the execution of United’s SAF adoption strategy
• Support project management efforts related to the implementation and continuous improvement of new and existing technology solutions
• Assist in the implementation of new processes and process improvements for international compliance requirements related to emissions, conventional jet fuel, and SAF usage reporting
• Build relationships and working collaboratively with internal stakeholders to partner on initiatives and influence outcomes
• Update leadership and key collaborators on initiatives - preparing and delivering presentations

 What’s needed to succeed:

• Current undergraduate student (Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or related field)
• Track record of outstanding analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work well with others
• Strong relationship-building skills
• Excited to learn more about sustainable aviation fuel and how it contributes to United’s overall progress to a more sustainable future

Additional Information:

• Position will be hybrid based in Chicago, IL
• Intern duration is 12 weeks over Summer 2025
• 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 a crucial function of the position

United Express is a regional flight service network that supports United Airlines's operations, primarily by serving smaller cities and connecting traffic to United's main hubs. Representing approximately 6% of United's total capacity for 2023, United Express operates through partnerships with regional carriers, including CommuteAir, GoJet, Mesa Airlines, Republic Airways, and SkyWest. These carriers operate under Capacity Purchase Agreements, where United contracts for flight services, pays fixed and performance-based fees, and covers additional costs like fuel and landing fees. The regional carriers operate United-branded flights, following schedules set by the airline, while United manages pricing, revenue, and loyalty programs for passengers.