Interns will support the day-to-day operations of a busy commercial service airport and gain experience in airside and landside functions, customer service, and regulatory compliance. Participants will work alongside experienced Airport Operations Managers and Officers, gaining real-world insight into what it takes to keep a major airport running smoothly 24/7.

Key Responsibilities: •Assist with daily airfield and terminal inspections •Observe and support FAA Part 139 compliance •Participate in terminal and curbside operations, including incident response and passenger assistance •Shadow coordination with airport stakeholders •Contribute to documentation and projects as assigned by the Landside and Airside Airport Managers •Learn emergency procedures and irregular operations

Ideal Candidates:

• Passionate about the aviation industry and interested in a career in airport operations.
• Strong communicators with a willingness to learn in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.
• Comfortable working outdoors and in varying conditions.
• Must be able to pass a background check for airport security clearance.
• College students must be enrolled full-time at an accredited educational institution that leads to a certificate, Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or advanced degree (preferably in Aviation, Airport Management, or a related field). One of the following is required to establish a college student’s eligibility for appointment to a student class: The educational institution in which the student is enrolled must verify full-time enrollment; Incoming freshman or transfer students must submit an acceptance letter from their educational institution; or Students who have graduated and who desire to continue working for one (1) year, must submit a graduation diploma or certificate upon completion.

To Apply:
Please submit your resume and a letter including the following information to Ciara Gamble (gamblec@saccounty.gov). This letter must be submitted in a PDF format and include the following information: 

Section 1: Personal Information

• Full Name
• Contact Information (Phone, Email)
• School & Major
• Anticipated Graduation Date

Section 2: Academic Background

• Current GPA
• Relevant Courses Completed (e.g., Airport Operations, Aviation Law, Airfield Safety)
• Course Short Descriptions
• Certifications (e.g., Private Pilot License, AMT School, AAAE Student Membership)

Section 3: Career Interests

• What areas of airport operations are you most interested in?
• Airside Operations
• Landside Operations
• Emergency Management
• Noise Abatement
• Planning & Development (Airside)
• Communications & Public Affairs (aviation-related)
• Why are you pursuing a career in aviation or airport management? How will this internship help that goal? What are you most hoping to get out of an internship?

Section 4: Experience

• Describe any prior work or internship experience, particularly in aviation, transportation, customer service, or logistics.
• Describe any prior work or internship experience, General Aviation, GA Reliever, or small, medium, or large hub airport.
• Describe a recent or meaningful project that you have worked on during your coursework. Was this a solo or team project? What were the hurdles you faced and the outcome of this project?
• Have you participated in any student aviation organizations or clubs? (e.g., AAAE, Women in Aviation, NGPA)

Section 5: Skills & Strengths

• Rate your proficiency (1–5) in the following areas:
• Microsoft Excel / Word / PowerPoint
• Verbal Communication
• Written Communication
• Time Management
• Team Collaboration
• List any other technical or soft skills you feel would be beneficial in an airport operations setting.

Section 6: Availability & Logistics

• Available Internship Dates
• Will you be available and willing to work a 40 hour/week schedule?
• Would you be willing to relocate to the Sacramento Area for the duration of the program?
• Do you have reliable transportation to/from SMF?

Section 7: References

• List 1–2 academic or professional references (name, title, relationship, contact info)

About Sacramento County Department of Airports

Sacramento International Airport (SMF), operated by the Sacramento County Department of Airports, is a dynamic and fast-growing commercial service airport serving California's capital region. With a strong commitment to safety, customer service, and operational excellence, SMF plays a vital role in regional connectivity, supporting over 13 million passengers annually and maintaining a robust schedule of domestic and international flights. Operational Environment SMF operates 24/7 and supports a wide array of airport functions, including airside and landside operations. The Airport Operations Division plays a central role in maintaining FAA Part 139 compliance, monitoring airfield conditions, managing irregular operations (IROPs), and responding to incidents on both the landside and airside portions of the airport. Airport Operations Officers (AOOs) also engage in parking monitoring, tenant relations, construction coordination, and customer service support. The environment is highly collaborative, fast-paced, and offers unique challenges and learning opportunities for aviation professionals. Current Projects and Initiatives Sacramento International is in the midst of a major... growth phase, including the launch of the SMForward initiative—a multi-billion-dollar capital improvement program. Key components of SMForward include: New Terminal Facilities: Plans for a new Concourse B expansion and consolidated ground transportation center to improve passenger flow and capacity. Airfield Enhancements: Ongoing runway and taxiway rehabilitation projects to ensure long-term safety and operational efficiency. Technology Upgrades: Deployment of advanced airfield lighting, digital signage, and data systems to support proactive decision-making and situational awareness. Sustainability and Resilience: Efforts to incorporate energy-efficient infrastructure and support climate-resilient airport operations. Internship and Career Opportunities SMF is committed to fostering the next generation of airport professionals through internships and entry-level roles that provide real-world experience in airport operations. Interns will work alongside experienced staff to conduct inspections, participate in emergency response training, and support daily operational tasks—all while gaining exposure to regulatory compliance, construction coordination, and public safety protocols. Work Culture The Airport Operations team is made up of dedicated, service-minded professionals who are passionate about aviation and public service. Leadership emphasizes adaptive management, continuous learning, and cross-functional teamwork. SMF values diversity, innovation, and a strong safety culture, making it an ideal place for emerging professionals to launch their careers. Why SMF? Located in one of California’s most vibrant and affordable metro areas, SMF offers a unique blend of major-airport operations with a close-knit, supportive work environment. Employees have the opportunity to make a real impact while participating in projects that shape the future of air travel in Northern California.

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