About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is a global leader in the food and beverage industry, delighting over 1 billion people daily with iconic brands like Pepsi, Gatorade, Lay's, and Quaker. Headquartered in Purchase, New York, with major operations in Plano, Texas, PepsiCo fosters a culture of innovation, calculated risks, and positive change. As a playground for curious thinkers, doers, and changemakers, PepsiCo empowers associates from executives to frontline leaders to challenge the status quo and make the world better. Joining PepsiCo means becoming part of a supportive, inclusive team where you can dare to be yourself, influence global impact, and grow unique skills in a dynamic environment.

Role Overview

The 2026 Summer Intern - Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) - Undergrad position offers nationwide opportunities across field and headquarters locations, not limited to Plano, Texas. This internship immerses you in PepsiCo's HSE agenda, contributing to regulatory compliance and risk-prevention initiatives at regional, plant, distribution center, or HQ levels. You'll tackle a site-, region-, or headquarters-specific project delivering actionable plans for business improvements. Expect hands-on exposure to HSE strategies that prevent workplace injuries, environmental incidents, and vehicle accidents. With hourly pay ranging from $21.60 to $33.20—pre-determined based on role, degree, and location—this paid internship is a launchpad for full-time careers at PepsiCo.

Nationwide Placement Flexibility

While listed in Plano, roles span the U.S., including field-based positions in plants and distribution centers. Field roles stay in the field, offering real-world operations experience. Flexibility for relocation enhances advancement opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

As an HSE Intern, you'll drive PepsiCo's safety and environmental excellence through targeted projects. Core duties include:

• Supporting execution, implementation, and tracking of location-specific annual HSE plans.
• Interfacing with regulatory bodies such as DOT and state/local regulators.
• Developing, implementing, and managing strategies to prevent workplace injuries, environmental incidents, and vehicle accidents.
• Establishing processes for driver capability using best-in-class defensive driving techniques.
• Performing risk assessments and implementing physical/behavioral controls; verifying effectiveness.
• Completing root cause analyses with tools like 5-Why and 8-D to develop corrective action plans addressing root causes and management gaps.

These responsibilities build practical skills in an unstructured, results-oriented environment, preparing you for HSE leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

PepsiCo seeks highly motivated self-starters for this internship. Key qualifications include:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Industrial Safety, or related field; graduating within one year of internship.
• GPA of 2.75 or higher.
• Proven people/project leadership in academics, clubs, or off-campus activities.
• Previous operations environment experience via employment or clubs.
• Ability to thrive in unstructured settings, make quick tradeoff decisions, and deliver results.
• Strong coaching, facilitation, presentation, team-building, and feedback skills.
• Indefinite right to work in the United States; no sponsorship available.

Candidates with flexibility for relocation will have greater advancement paths. PepsiCo considers qualified applicants with criminal histories per Fair Credit Reporting Act and applicable laws.

Benefits & Perks

This internship offers competitive, non-negotiable hourly pay of $21.60-$33.20, with strong potential for full-time conversion. Full-time PepsiCo roles include comprehensive benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.
• Disability coverage and Health/Dependent Care Reimbursement Accounts.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Accident, Group Legal, and Life Insurance.
• Defined Contribution Retirement Plan (401k).

Interns gain professional development, networking, and exposure to a global innovator.

Career Growth

PepsiCo loves converting top interns to full-time roles. This HSE internship builds foundational skills in compliance, risk management, and leadership, positioning you for HSE specialist, manager, or director positions. With nationwide opportunities and a culture fueling professional goals, you'll develop alongside supportive teams. Past interns advance rapidly, leveraging PepsiCo's global platform for impactful careers in food and beverage safety.

Why Join Us

At PepsiCo, you're not just an intern—you're a changemaker in a company connecting people to beloved products during life's moments. Work on meaningful HSE projects that enhance safety for thousands. Enjoy an inclusive culture where everyone dares for better, with resources to learn, grow, and influence. From Plano to nationwide sites, seize this chance to launch your HSE career with a premium employer committed to innovation and employee success.

Role FAQs

Q: Is the role only in Plano, Texas? A: No, nationwide opportunities across field and HQ locations; field roles remain field-based.

Q: What is the pay range? A: $21.60-$33.20 hourly, pre-determined and non-negotiable based on factors like location and degree.

Q: Can I convert to full-time? A: Yes, PepsiCo prioritizes converting high-performing interns with comprehensive benefits.

Q: What degree is required? A: Pursuing Bachelor's in Occupational Health & Safety or related; GPA 2.75+; graduate within 1 year post-internship.

Q: Do I need U.S. work authorization? A: Yes, indefinite right to work in the U.S. required.