Intern Technician - Topeka ThinkBIG 2026

Foley Equipment

Topeka (KS)

On-site

USD 2,066,000 - 3,031,000

Full time

2 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Tools worth $10,000

401(k) with matching

Scholarship opportunities

Semester stipends

Tuition reimbursement

Work boot reimbursement

Prescription safety glasses

Job summary

Foley Equipment offers the Caterpillar ThinkBIG internship beginning June 2026, pairing hands-on shop work with academic training to earn an Associate of Applied Science and over 2,000 hours of work experience. The two-year program rotates between ThinkBIG school and Foley locations, with housing arranged near campuses and job sites.

Intern hours are paid, and successful grads may join Foley as full-time Technicians.

Qualifications

Dependability with excellent attendance and punctuality.
Solid mechanical aptitude and interest in Caterpillar equipment.

Responsibilities

Adhere to Foley's safety culture and procedures.
Work with mentors in a shop environment to learn system workings and safety requirements.
Balance school coursework with internship rotations and meet program requirements.
Complete and submit all assignments related to the internship.
Occasionally travel to training or other Foley locations as needed.

Skills

Dependability

Mechanical Aptitude

Curiosity & Learning

Teamwork

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Internship will begin June 2026

Are you passionate about becoming a skilled diesel technician? The Caterpillar ThinkBIG program offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring technicians like you. Through this program, you'll receive comprehensive training, earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, and gain over 2,000 hours of valuable work experience.

Join us to kickstart your career with a solid foundation backed by industry-leading expertise.

Foley Equipment partners with the following institutions for the Caterpillar ThinkBIG program:

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) in Okmulgee, Oklahoma
State Tech in Linn, Missouri
WSU Tech in Wichita, Kansas

As a ThinkBIG Intern Technician At Foley, You'll Embark On a Rewarding Journey That Blends Practical Experience With Academic Learning. Here’s What You Can Expect

Hands-on Environment: Learn by working directly on state-of-the-art Caterpillar® equipment both at school and during your paid internship at your nearest Foley location.
Paid Internship: Earn while you learn! All intern hours worked at a Foley location are compensated.
Rotational Structure: Alternate between your ThinkBIG School and your local Foley location, providing a balanced and enriching experience. Rotations typically last 7 to 8 weeks each, ensuring comprehensive exposure to various aspects of the industry.
Year-Round Commitment: The program spans two years, allowing you to develop your skills and knowledge consistently over an extended period.
Housing Requirement: Students must arrange for housing during both school and internship rotations (housing on or near the school campus and in close proximity to their local Foley location).

Learn More at https://careers.foleyeq.com/thinkbig/

Job Duties

Adhere to Foley's culture - prioritizing safety above all else.
Work closely with experienced mentors who will guide you through the shop environment, helping you develop a solid understanding of system workings, procedures, processes, and safety requirements.
Attend, participate, and learn in school, maintaining minimum program grade requirements and remaining in good standing with the school and ThinkBIG program.
Complete and submit all required assignments, including assignments involving the internship.
Occasionally, you may be required to travel for training purposes and/or to assist at other Foley locations.

Our Ideal Candidate

Dependability: Demonstrate excellent attendance and punctuality both at school and during the internship, reflecting your commitment and professionalism.
Education: Possess a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
Curiosity and Learning Attitude: Embrace the opportunity to participate in and absorb the assigned technical curriculum specifically designed for Caterpillar equipment.
Long-term Vision: Seek a career path that offers stability and a promising future.
Mechanical Aptitude: Meet the initial mechanical and aptitude testing requirements, which may be further supported by previous automotive classes, military training, or a natural mechanical inclination.

What Will Put You Ahead

Mechanical Ability: Display previous mechanical experience and a strong drive to excel in troubleshooting and continuous learning.
Work Ethic and Teamwork: Exhibit a proven work ethic and a collaborative mindset, contributing positively to the team dynamic.
Desire for Growth: Show a genuine desire to learn from others and a strong focus on maintaining a safe working environment.
Confidence in Application: Demonstrate the ability to confidently apply newly acquired procedures, translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills.

What We Can Offer You

Upon successful completion of the program, participants may be considered for full-time Technician opportunities within the organization
Tools and Toolbox worth approximately $10,000
401(k) with matching
Scholarship opportunities
Stipend each semester to help offset school and living expenses
Tuition reimbursement
Work boot reimbursement
Prescription Safety Glasses reimbursement

Physical & Working Requirements

This role involves hands-on mechanical work in a shop environment. The employee must be able to perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation. These functions may include:

Safely and repeatedly lifting components weighing up to 115 pounds without assistance
Safely lifting, carrying, and lowering components weighing up to 65 pounds without assistance
Climbing on and off equipment and working at varying heights
Standing, bending, and working in physically demanding positions for extended periods
Safely operating tools and equipment

About Foley Equipment

Foley Industries – Foley Equipment, Foley Power Solutions, Foley Rental, and SITECH Central – proudly stands at the forefront of progress, serving customers in Kansas and Western Missouri for over nine decades. With a dedicated team of over 1,000 employees, we are committed to delivering exceptional service, top-quality parts and rentals, and unparalleled sales support across a comprehensive range of Caterpillar and allied construction equipment, power generation solutions, and cutting-edge SITECH construction technology. As we continue to empower our customers' success, we invite you to explore the endless opportunities that await you at Foley. To learn more about our company and join our team of industry leaders, please visit www.FoleyEq.com.

Foley Industries, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer (Race/Gender/Veteran/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity). To request a reasonable accommodation or assistance in completing the application, call 316-943-4211 or email careers@foleyeq.com.