ThinkBIG Intern Technician

ThinkBIG TECHNICIAN INTERN About Us Looking for more than just a job? At Thompson Machinery, we’ve been powering progress since 1944. We are the go-to Caterpillar dealer for Middle and West Tennessee and North Mississippi. Come join a team where our mission is simple: deliver smart solutions, build lasting partnerships, strengthen the communities we call home and invest in your growth.

What You Will Do The ThinkBIG Technician position is a highly competitive, sponsored technician training program designed for individuals pursuing a career as a Caterpillar Dealership Service Technician. Students attend Illinois Central College in East Peoria, IL, while gaining real-world experience at Thompson Machinery locations. The program follows an alternating format each semester:

• First 8 weeks: Classroom instruction and hands-on lab training
• Second 8 weeks: Paid internship at a Thompson Machinery store under the guidance of a Think BIGMentor
• This rotation continues throughout the two-year program

Students develop advanced technical knowledge and hands-on skills in:

• Engine fundamentals
• Machine hydraulics
• Caterpillar fuel systems
• Electrical and electronic systems
• Transmissions and torque converters
• Undercarriage and final drives

As a ThinkBIG Technician (Mentee), you will work under mentor supervision performing setup, service, diagnostics, preventive maintenance, repairs, and parts installation on Caterpillar diesel-powered construction equipment. Students also gain exposure to dealership operations, service standards, and customer support practices that prepare them for long-term success as a Field Service Technician. Upon successful completion of the two-year program, students earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science and can advance into full-time technician roles with continued training and development.

Responsibilities

• Participate in alternating classroom and dealership internship rotations
• Perform preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs on CAT construction equipment under mentor supervision
• Assist with setup, service, installation, and replacement of machine components
• Learn to read and interpret service manuals, technical instructions, and safety procedures
• Work with mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical/electronic schematics and wiring diagrams
• Use diagnostic tools and test equipment to support troubleshooting activities
• Maintain professional communication with mentors, instructors, and dealership staff
• Submit required reports and academic updates in a timely manner
• Maintain strong academic performance and attendance standards
• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, adaptability, and accountability
• Follow all safety procedures and company policies
• Operate computers and service software for documentation and coursework

Requirements Education & Academic

• High school diploma or equivalent (2.7 GPA or higher preferred)

• Ability to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA throughout the program

• Meet standardized testing score minimums:

• ACT: Reading 18, English 17, Math 22

• SAT: Reading 480, Math 520

• OR ACCUPLACER: Reading 90 or >, Elementary Algebra 81 or >

• Meet with academic advisor and maintain full program enrollment

Technical & Mechanical

• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
• Ability to read schematics and technical documents
• Ability to operate a PC (Windows, Excel, Word)
• Obtain a basic set of mechanic hand tools

Professional

• Strong communication skills (spoken and written English)
• Willingness to work closely with a service mentor
• High integrity and accountability standards
• Strong customer service focus

Other Requirements

• Valid state driver’s license
• Pass company physical, drug screen, and background check
• Willingness to relocate or travel for school attendance
• Commitment to complete the full two-year program

Thompson Machinery offers competitive salaries and a complete benefits package. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and background. Thompson Machinery is an equal opportunity employer: Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled.