Intern, Operations – Airport Queue Management

Job Description

Intern, Operations | JFK International Air Terminal

The Tone:
This is an internship at JFK International Air Terminal, located in Jamaica, NY. JFK International Air Terminal is an organization focused on operating a major international air travel hub. This role is critical in managing the flow of passengers at key checkpoints like TSA Security, Customs and Border Protection, and airline check-in areas, ensuring a safe, efficient, and positive customer experience. The intern coordinates closely with airline partners, government agencies, and contracted staff to maintain operational standards and order.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Part-time (20-28 hours/week, 3 or 6 months)
• Location: In-person, Jamaica, NY
• Pay: $21–$22 hourly
• Mission: To ensure a safe, efficient, and customer-focused queue management operation across key terminal areas through direct oversight and coordination.

What You’ll Actually Do
• Manage passenger flow: Directly manage queues at critical airport checkpoints (TSA, CBP, check-in), ensuring social distancing, continuous movement, and screening for non-ticketed passengers.
• Respond to incidents: Address and investigate incidents or accidents within the terminal, completing necessary medical or incident reports.
• Provide terminal support: Serve as a liaison to airline customers and government agencies, provide customer service, and request maintenance, cleanliness, or IT service calls as needed.
• Oversee daily operations: Monitor and coordinate all landside terminal operations, execute daily operational plans, and manage communications via various systems.
• Supervise and train staff: Direct, monitor, and evaluate the performance of outsourced contracted staff, conduct daily inspections, maintain records, and provide on-the-job training.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Current enrollment in an academic program, with a preference for junior or senior standing.
• Experience: No specific years required, but demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple tasks, perform under stress, and learn new IT systems is essential.
• Skills: Strong written and verbal communication, administrative proficiency for timely follow-up and reporting, and a proactive, self-motivated approach.
• Bonus: Professional demeanor and appearance, along with the ability to pass medical screening and background checks for airport identification.