Intern - Accounting Controllership (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.
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.
Key Responsibilities:
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.
- 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
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 2026
- 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 2026 or Spring 2027