Political Science Internships Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

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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 selfstarters who thrive in fastmoving, 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.

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 a Government & Regulatory Affairs (GRA) Intern to join our team for an 8-month temporary term beginning in Fall 2026, working 40 hours per week. This role offers exposure to external affairs, government relations, regulatory monitoring, corporate communications and community investment within the Canadian energy sector. The successful candidate will contribute to key initiatives that support stakeholder engagement, regulatory awareness, and internal communications, while gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced corporate environment.

Join us and take the first step towards a rewarding career in Government & Regulatory Affairs within the energy industry!

What you will learn

• Support monitoring and analysis of federal and provincial regulatory and policy developments impacting Plains Canada.
• Review incoming legislation and track all issues with potential impact to Plains Canada.
• Work with the appropriate subject matter experts to assist in drafting comment letters to proposed legislation.
• Assist in the preparation of briefing notes, stakeholder materials, trade association materials and meeting minutes and executive summaries.
• Assist with internal reporting, including weekly and monthly GRA updates.
• Support coordination of events, meetings, and external engagement activities.
• Conduct research and opportunities for potential funding on emerging policy, industry trends, and stakeholder issues.
• Write and support communication materials.
• Lead and support community investment or volunteerism events.
• Provide general administrative and project support.

Who you are

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated analytical and research abilities.
• Interest in policy, energy industry, government relations, or regulatory affairs.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Professional communication and writing.
• Organizational and time management skills.
• Initiative and ability to work independently.

Minimum qualifications

• Preference will be given to students enrolled in full-time studies in a post-secondary institution, working towards a bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• You will not graduate from your current bachelor's program prior to the end date of this internship.

• Ability to commit to an 8-month work term starting August 31, 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, CoPilot AI, Teams, SharePoint, and Outlook).

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

• Willingness to work in-person at our Calgary downtown office.

• This position is not eligible for employment-based visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in Canada for the duration of their employment.

• Ability to provide three satisfactory references from past managers/teachers and pass a Criminal Background Check.

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 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.