"Alerted.org

Description

About the Internship

The Aviation Department oversees the five airports within the Port Authority system, the largest airport system in the United States. Within the department, the Airport Operations Unit is responsible for ensuring the safe daily operations of the airports in compliance with FAA Part 139 and Advisory Circular 150 series. Key responsibilities include managing self-inspection programs, wildlife hazard management, airfield driver training, snow and ice control, the Airport Emergency Plan, quarterly inspections of fueling facilities and equipment, airfield safety areas, airport markings and signage, aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF), airport condition reporting, airport construction safety and phasing plans, and maintaining the Airport Certification Manual (ACM).

The internship program within the Airport Operations Unit serves to introduce students to the critical functions of airport management while aligning with the department’s mission of ensuring safe and efficient airport operations. Interns will work closely with the Airport Operations team, gaining firsthand experience in various operational areas such as inspections, safety compliance, emergency planning, and airfield operations.

This internship offers a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the dynamic environment of one of the nation’s busiest airport systems. They will contribute directly to the success of the department by assisting in operational tasks and special projects, enhancing both their technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

Interns will leave the program with a comprehensive understanding of airport operations, industry best practices, and the regulatory framework governing airports. This invaluable experience will not only enhance their academic knowledge but also provide a competitive edge for future careers in aviation.

Responsibilities

+ Support the Day-to-day Aeronautical Airport Operations Activities at JFK.

+ Assist with periodic, daily, and continuous inspections of airfield and facility operations

+ Monitor two-way radio communications among airport staff, flight operations, and weather conditions.

+ Support the coordination of airport construction activities and provide a high level of customer service by responding to public inquiries.

+ Contribute to the airport’s safety initiatives, including participation in the Foreign Object Debris (FOD) management program, with responsibilities such as inventorying baggage containers, assisting in recovery and disposal of damaged property, and engaging with airport community members and stakeholders.

+ Report to the Assistant Aeronautical Managers of the assigned departments to learn, assist, and complete a special project dedicated to the intern.

Minimum Qualifications

+ Enrollment at a college or university at the time of the internship

+ Major in Aviation Management or related discipline

+ Basic understanding of aviation industry standards, airport operations, and FAA regulations.

Desired Qualifications

+ Rising junior, senior, or graduate-level student.

+ Strong written and oral communication skills.

+ Attention to detail and flexibility to manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously.

+ Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

+ Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Internship Details

+ The start date will be Thursday, May 28, 2026

+ The internship will last approximately 12 weeks, ending on Friday, August 21, 2026

+ This is a full-time internship (5 days per week at 7.25 hours per day)

+ In accordance with Port Authority policy, this position permits interns to work remotely a maximum of one day per week. In person collaboration is essential to how the Port Authority conducts business and regular in-office days or team collaboration days may be required depending on business needs. Some internships may require interns to be fully in-person.

Selection Process

+ Only applicants under consideration will be contacted

+ If selected to move forward, the hiring team will reach out directly to schedule 1-2 interviews

+ Different internships will have different timelines for interviews

Compensation & Benefits

+ The hourly rate range is $18.07 to $30.31 (the exact rate will be determined by internship type and rising school year)

+ Ability to opt in to the New York State and Local Retirement System

+ Access to Employee Business Resource Groups (https://www.jointheportauthority.com/pages/diversity-inclusion-programs)

+ Facility Tours

+ Career Panels

+ Social/Networking Events

REQNUMBER: 64020