Environmental Permitting

Job Type:

Intern/Student (Fixed Term)

Powering people, fueling the future. At Plains, we believe in the value energy brings to people, communities, and businesses, today and for generations to come. Our people play a vital role in transporting North American energy to where it’s needed. Plains moves more than 8 million barrels per day of crude oil and NGLs to power communities, spark innovation and fuel quality of life.

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. 

Fueled by our strong leadership team and a dedicated employee base, combined with our expertise in marketing, logistics and our asset base, Plains is well-positioned to provide our customers with flexible, value-added services now and in the future.

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.

Our internships are designed to bridge the gap between academic studies and real-world application, offering meaningful and challenging work. Plains is proud to offer one of the industry’s top formal training programs for students, with high-achieving participants potentially receiving job offers upon graduation.

We are currently seeking an Environmental Permitting Intern for a 3-month term starting May 18, 2026. This role is perfect for candidates with strong attention to detail and communication skills who thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment. The Environmental Permitting team is directly responsible for coordinating environmental surveys (such as waters, threatened and endangered species, and cultural surveys) and obtaining the corresponding permits necessary to construct or maintain new pipelines or facilities.

Join us and take the first step towards a rewarding career in the oil and gas industry!

What you will learn

• Gain a deep understanding of both processes and overall function of Environmental Permitting and HSE.

• Learn to manage project status, requirements, analyze relevant project data, and create reports.

• Enhance your abilities working within industry leading business software and digital tools.

• Hone your data analysis skills and learn to interpret research findings to support decision-making.

• Contribute meaningfully to internal and external meetings, where applicable.

• Identify and implement opportunities for efficiency and process improvements.

• Complete and present assigned projects, showcasing your learning and contributions.

• Tackle ad-hoc analytical assignments and reporting, gaining versatile analytical experience.

Who you are

• Proactive team player who is eager to learn.

• Skilled at synthesizing information and communicating their recommendations/findings clearly.

• Effective working in fast-paced environment and doesn’t mind working independently at times.

• Detail-oriented with high accuracy.

• Strong analytical and organizational abilities.

• Flexible and adaptable to change.

Minimum qualifications

• Enrolled in at least the 2nd year of a bachelor’s program in natural sciences or engineering.

• You will not graduate from your current bachelor’s program prior to the end date of this internship.

• Ability to commit to a 4-month work term starting May 18, 2026.

• Past entry level work experience doing customer service or relevant internships are considered an asset.

• Experience working with MS Office products (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, Sharepoint, and Outlook).

• Willingness to relocate to Houston for the entire duration of the term.

• Ability to provide three satisfactory references from past managers/teachers and pass 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.

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 a competitive compensation, industry leading work experience, and the opportunity to take part in a variety of social events with colleague

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.

All applicants not chosen for an interview shall have all personal information permanently deleted or disposed of with the exception of their resume, which will be kept on file in the event that another suitable position becomes available.