Intern - Accounting Controllership (Summer 2025)

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 Accounting Controllership organization at United Airlines ensures financial integrity for the company. Its primary responsibility is providing accurate and timely company records by managing the accounting function end-to-end. Duties include owning the financial close process and producing financial statements and reports to guide decision-making. The Controllership organization has several disciplines including Corporate Accounting, Revenue Accounting, Financial Reporting, International Accounting, Payroll and Accounts Payable to name a few.

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented intern to join our team for the summer. This is an excellent opportunity for a student pursuing a degree in accounting or finance to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic corporate environment. Interns will be given exposure to day-to-day accounting operations, assigned meaningful projects, and provided opportunities to interact with and present to the leadership. A determination of what discipline will be assigned to an intern for the summer will be based upon desired work location and interest of the student.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the preparation of financial statements and reports
• Assist in executing accounting tasks to meet financial objectives, including planning, documentation, and auditing
• Prepare detailed work papers/entries in accordance with established accounting/audit programs and departmental procedures
• Perform financial support/testing procedures for Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) compliance
• Assist in execution of solutions to business problems using data analysis
• Provide independent assessment, analyses, observations, and recommendations to improve operation controls and business processes
• Prepare written communications and financial reports
• Participate in monthly close processes and/or operational meetings
• Collaborate with the Controllership team on various projects
• Maintain a positive, professional relationship with staff and management at all levels

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.

What’s needed to succeed (Minimum Qualifications):

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Internal Audit, or a related field
• Excellent analytical, problem solving, and organizational skills
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel
• Strong interpersonal skills with focus on teamwork
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding financial information
• Ability to handle simultaneous projects and adapt to a fast-paced, changing environment
• Based in Chicago with a hybrid work schedule
• Internship duration is 10-12 weeks during Summer 2025
• Successful completion of interview required to meet job qualification
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without sponsorship
• Reliable, punctual attendance is an essential function of the position
• Willingness to travel up to 10% within the U.S. or possibly internationally

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

• Current student graduating in Winter 2025 or Spring 2026

Compensation and benefits information is outlined below. Please note, intern pay rate may differ based on student’s class standing.

The base salary range/hourly rate listed is dependent on job-related, non-discriminatory factors such as experience, education, and skills.

This position is also eligible for bonus and/or long-term incentive compensation awards.

You may be eligible for the following competitive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life, accident & disability, parental leave, employee assistance program, commuter, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k) and flight privileges.