Intern, Government & Public Affairs

Job Type:

Plains is an industry-leading transportation and midstream provider specializing in transportation, storage, processing and marketing solutions for crude oil. We own an extensive network of pipeline transportation, terminalling, storage and gathering assets in key oil producing basins and transportation corridors and at major market hubs in the United States and Canada. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas.

We’re on the lookout for passionate self‑starters who thrive in fast‑moving, collaborative, and innovative environments.

New to the midstream energy sector? No problem! Plains offers a comprehensive formal training program, featuring on-the-job training, companywide learning series, online educational tools (see sample) and student programs. 

About this student opportunity  

At Plains, students are vital members of our team, driving our business forward with their fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. From day one, you’ll feel empowered to ask questions and truly be part of our collaborative culture.

We offer students the chance to build professional networks by working alongside skilled professionals, mentors, and fellow students. Our student programs provide hands-on experience within the oil and gas midstream sector and opportunities for students to take on higher level projects depending on their skills and career interests.

Plains’ Early Talent program is an opportunity for post-secondary students to get hands-on experience and education that aligns with their degree in the oil and gas midstream sector. Our intern opportunities have been specifically designed to provide students with the opportunity to apply their academic studies and gain valuable experience through meaningful and challenging work. Plains offers one of the industry’s best formal training programs where high achieving participants may become eligible to receive an offer to join Plains upon graduation. 

Plains is currently looking to fill the position of Government and Public Affairs Intern to join our Government and Public Affairs team for a three-month position beginning May 17, 2027. This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate with proven policy analysis and communication skills to collaborate with multiple departments. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while contributing to initiatives that drive meaningful impact.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor, analyze, and communicate changes in legislation or regulation
• Assist in the preparation of briefing materials, policy papers, and presentations
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to support policy and advocacy initiatives, providing information and updates as requested
• Develop communications materials for engagement initiatives, including but not limited to templates, factsheets, presentations;
• Assist in community investment and strategic stakeholder engagement initiatives across Plains footprint
• Attend and take notes at governmental meetings, hearings, and other events
• Support the organization of advocacy events and meetings
• Assist in the redesign of our internal tools using Microsoft products (Power BI, SharePoint)
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and other stakeholders to achieve project goals
• Support activities related to the company’s Political Action Committee (PAC), including communications and event logistics
• Assist with coordination and documentation for stakeholder engagement
• Maintain a high level of professionalism and confidentiality in all interactions and communications

Qualifications:

• Interns must be pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master's degree at an accredited university, preferably majoring in government, political science, or a related field
• Strong communication skills—written and verbal, including public speaking proficiency
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to build collaborative relationships with both internal and external stakeholders
• Preference will be given to a student who will be returning to university to finish their undergraduate degree following the completion of this work term
• An entrepreneurial self-starter who is driven to learn and contribute
• Sound judgment and problem-solving skills
• Keen attention to detail, analysis and organization
• Proven ability to prioritize, meet deadlines and multi-task
• Skilled in simplifying complex ideas for a multitude of audiences
• Proficiency with MS Office, including Excel, Word, Teams, SharePoint, Outlook, and Power BI
• Proven flexibility and agility to adapt to changing business conditions
• Comfortable working within a fast-paced team environment and under minimal supervision
• Interns must be able and willing to relocate to Houston for the duration of the work term
• Interns must be able to commit to a 3-month work term starting May 17, 2027, to be considered for the program
• The successful candidate must comply with the Company’s Drug & Alcohol Policy including pre-employment testing
• The successful candidate must provide satisfactory references and complete a Criminal Background Check
• This position is not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. for the duration of their employment

#Plains

How to ace your interview:

• Application Essentials: Include your resume, cover letter, and transcript.

• Stay Updated: Check your email (including junk folder) frequently.

• Preparation Tips:

  • Learn about the midstream industry (TIP: watch this video).

  • Understand our core values, recent Plains news, or read our sustainability report.

  • Dress and communicate professionally.

  • Inform us of any vacation plans or changes in availability.

  • Prepare questions to ask at the end of your interview.

As a student at Plains you'll receive competitive compensation, industry leading work experience, and the opportunity to take part in a variety of social events with colleagues. The program focuses on delivering meaningful experiences that aligns with students’ education and career development goals. We value students’ contributions while supporting a healthy balance between work, school, and personal priorities.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Applicants with disabilities can request accessible formats, communication supports, or other accessibility assistance by contacting WebCareers@Plains.com.

Salary details estimated by job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn do not represent Plains’ compensation structure. We thank all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

By submitting your resume, you consent to the collection, use and necessary disclosure of the personal information provided during the application and selection process. Learn more.