Intern, Government & Public Affairs
About the role
Plains is an industry-leading transportation and midstream provider specializing in transportation, storage, processing and marketing solutions for crude oil. The company owns 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, headquartered in Houston, Texas. Plains offers a comprehensive formal training program featuring on‑the‑job training, companywide learning series, online educational tools and student programs. As a student intern you will be a vital member of the team, building professional networks, gaining hands‑on experience in the oil and gas midstream sector, and having the opportunity to take on higher‑level projects aligned with your skills and career interests.
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 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 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
- 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 given to a student who will be returning to university to finish their undergraduate degree following the completion of this work term
- Entrepreneurial self‑starter 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
- Able and willing to relocate to Houston for the duration of the work term
- Able to commit to a 3‑month work term starting May 17, 2027
- Must comply with the Company’s Drug & Alcohol Policy including pre‑employment testing
- Must provide satisfactory references and complete a Criminal Background Check
- Authorized to work in the U.S. for the duration of employment; this position is not eligible for employment‑based visa sponsorship
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Industry‑leading work experience
- Opportunity to take part in a variety of social events with colleagues
- Access to Plains’ comprehensive formal training program (on‑the‑job training, companywide learning series, online educational tools)
Schedule
Three‑month internship beginning May 17, 2027.