Internal Audit & AI Innovation Intern

Plains Midstream Canada (PMC); Houston (TX); On-site; USD 20,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Plains Midstream Canada (PMC) in Houston is seeking interns for a summer 2027 Internal Audit program. You’ll gain hands-on experience in assurance, advisory services, controls testing, and AI-enabled audit methods within a Fortune 500 environment.

From day one you’ll work with experienced auditors, mentors, and fellow students to deliver meaningful projects, strengthen governance, and broaden your professional network.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Computer and Data Science, Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Information Systems, or related field.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, critical thinking and problem solving, and strong analytical abilities.
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau) preferred; exposure to SQL, Python, and automation tools is advantageous.
• Interest in emerging technologies including AI, machine learning, and robotic process automation.

Responsibilities

• Audit and SOX activities: assist planning, executing, and documenting engagements; support control documentation and testing.
• Data analytics and technology: analyze large datasets using Excel, Power BI, SQL, Python; identify automation opportunities.
• AI and innovation: explore AI-assisted workflows to improve audit processes and reporting.
• Professional development: collaborate with mentors and cross‑functional teams; participate in training.

Skills

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Team collaboration

Data analytics

Excel

Power BI

SQL

Python

Education

Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Computer and Data Science, Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Information Systems, or related field.

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

SQL

Python

Power Automate

Power Apps

Copilot

Job description

Job Type: Intern/Student (Fixed Term)

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. We are seeking high‑achieving, analytical, innovative, and technology‑oriented students to join our Internal Audit team through internships in summer 2027. Our Internal Audit Intern Program provides students with an opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in operational auditing and Sarbanes‑Oxley (SOX) compliance while helping shape the future of audit through artificial intelligence, data analytics, and business automation. Interns are valued members of the Internal Audit team and will contribute to meaningful projects that support business objectives, strengthen governance and controls, and improve operational effectiveness. Successful candidates will work alongside experienced audit professionals while gaining exposure to emerging technologies that are transforming the internal audit profession. This opportunity provides practical experience in assurance, advisory services, controls testing, process improvement, and the responsible application of AI within a Fortune 500 environment.

Responsibilities

• Audit and SOX Activities Assist auditors with planning, executing, and documenting internal audit engagements. Support SOX compliance activities, including control documentation, walkthroughs, testing, and evaluation of control effectiveness. Assist in developing audit workpapers, testing documentation, and reporting deliverables. Participate in interviews and meetings with business stakeholders to gain an understanding of processes and controls.
• Data Analytics and Technology Analyze large datasets using Excel, Power BI, SQL, Python, or similar analytical tools. Help identify opportunities to automate repetitive audit and compliance activities. Support continuous monitoring and continuous auditing initiatives. Utilize data‑driven techniques to identify trends, anomalies, and audit insights.
• AI and Innovation Explore and apply Artificial Intelligence solutions to improve audit planning, testing, documentation, and reporting processes. Assist in developing and testing AI‑assisted workflows for audit and SOX activities. Evaluate opportunities for generative AI, machine learning, and intelligent automation within the audit function. Recommend innovative solutions that improve efficiency, quality, and audit coverage.
• Professional Development Collaborate with audit professionals, mentors, and cross‑functional business teams. Attend departmental training sessions, meetings, and professional development activities.

Qualifications

• Education Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Computer and Data Science, Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Information Systems, or related field.
• Required Competencies Strong written and oral communication skills. Strong critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities. Strong analytical and quantitative skills. Intellectual curiosity and willingness to challenge assumptions. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Technology Skills Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and SharePoint. Experience with data analysis and visualization tools (Power BI, Tableau, or similar) is preferred. Experience using AI‑based productivity tools such as Microsoft Copilot is preferred. Exposure to SQL, Python, Power Automate, Power Apps, or other automation tools is advantageous.
• Additional Qualities & Skills: Interest in emerging technologies, including AI, machine learning, robotic process automation (RPA), and advanced analytics. Ability to understand, interpret, validate, and communicate insights from data. Willingness to experiment, learn quickly, and recommend new approaches to improve audit quality and efficiency.

Interns must be able to commit to the 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; and 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 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 [e-mail].

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.

At Plains, our vision is to become the premier crude oil and marketing company in the United States and Canada by providing the utmost in value‑added services to our customers, and in doing so, delivering superior returns to our stakeholders. Our people are analytical, connected, creative, entrepreneurial and passionate about everything they do. We rely on our Core Values and beliefs to inspire and guide our team. These values include: Safety and Environmental Stewardship: We conduct our business in a manner that is safe for our employees, business partners, communities and the environment. Ownership and Accountability: We take ownership of our actions and are accountable to each other and our stakeholders, including the communities where we live and work. Respect, Fairness, and Inclusion: We treat each other with respect and fairness, and are committed to an inclusive workplace. Ethics and Integrity: We do the right thing, obey the law and act with the highest levels of honesty, ethics and integrity. Teamwork: We foster a collaborative environment and work together to achieve our goals. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: We are a nimble team that develops and implements creative solutions that deliver value for our stakeholders and drive continuous improvement.