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Operations Intern - ORD (Chicago, Illinois, US)

Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) • Operations Intern - ORD (Chicago, Illinois, US) • 3d ago

About WFS

Join our Worldwide Flight Services family and contribute to the timely delivery of cargo shipment, luggage, business to customer delivery, and on-time flights while operating safely and securely. We perform at the highest level for our customers every day, and strive to be an exceptional leader in our industry with our teams of cargo, passenger, ramp handling, and technical service experts in 164 airport locations, 18 countries, and on 5 continents. Are you ready to take off on your next career with us?

Job Summary

The Operations Intern will support daily activities across WFS’s aviation service operations, including cargo handling, express logistics, passenger services, and ground handling functions. Over the course of two rotational assignments, interns gain exposure to warehouse operations, compliance processes, customer service, and workflow optimization while contributing to real business challenges through a capstone project.

Responsibilities

Support day-to-day cargo warehouse operations, including shipment receipt, processing, scanning, and material movement.
Assist ground handling teams with aircraft turn operations, ramp safety practices, and equipment staging.
Observe and support passenger service workflows such as check-in, boarding, and customer flow management (site-dependent).
Collect and record operational data to support productivity, staffing, and workflow analysis.
Assist with operational documentation, regulatory requirements, and audit preparation activities.
Support supervisors with resource planning, routing, and daily shift preparation.
Conduct safety observations and assist with local safety and compliance initiatives.
Engage with airline customers, logistics partners, and internal operations teams to support daily service needs.
Identify an operational improvement opportunity and complete a capstone project including research, data analysis, and a business case presentation to local or regional leadership.
Participate in professional development activities including leadership workshops, Lean Six Sigma introductory training, and structured mentoring.

Minimum Requirements

Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree)
Good academic standing and strong communication skills
Candidates must be upperclassmen, with a strong preference for juniors and seniors nearing graduation.
Candidates must be located in—or have independently secured housing near—one of the designated internship locations for the duration of the program; housing and relocation assistance are not provided.
Ability to commit to a full-time summer schedule (40 hours/week) plus travel to Dallas.

Preferred Qualifcations

Preferred majors: Aviation, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Operations Management, Engineering, or related fields.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated interest in aviation, logistics, or operational environments.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Basic data analysis skills (Excel, Sheets, or BI tools).

Target Internship Locations

JFK – New York, NY
LAX – Los Angeles, CA
ORD – Chicago, IL
SEA – Seattle, WA
DFW – Dallas–Fort Worth, TX
MIA – Miami, FL
PHX – Phoenix, AZ

Physical Working Conditions & Requirements

This role requires exposure to active airport and warehouse environments.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, walk, or be on feet for extended periods (up to 8 hours)
Lift, push, pull, or move items up to 35–50 lbs. (with or without accommodation)
Work in varying climates including heat, cold, rain, and outdoor ramp conditions
Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, and climb short steps or ladders as part of operations
Comfortable around aircraft noise, warehouse equipment, and moving vehicles (PPE provided)

Work Environment

Fast-paced operational setting
Mix of indoor (office), (warehouse) and outdoor (ramp) work depending on rotation
Required use of PPE: safety vest, hearing protection, gloves, etc.
Must follow all airport security, safety, and regulatory guidelines

Perks & Benefits

Want your pay in advance? Access your pay when you need it through DailyPay app!
Are you a top performer who thrives on recognition? On the spot awards offered through the Awardco Platform including gift cards and more!
Need quality medical care? Multiple options for both full and part-time employees!
Want WFS Employee Extras? Travel Discounts, Pet insurance, Discount Shopping & More!
Looking to stay healthy and improve your life? Wellness Programs offered to all employees!
Want to invest in your future? 401k program offered!
Looking to grow and have a career with us? Opportunity for Internal Mobility and transfers available!