ThinkBIG Intern Technician

THOMPSON MACHINERY; Peoria (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Machinery in East Peoria, IL offers the ThinkBIG Technician program, a sponsored training track for aspiring Caterpillar dealership service technicians. Students study at Illinois Central College while gaining real-world experience at Thompson locations.

Participants rotate between classroom instruction and paid internship experiences, learning electrical, mechanical, and electronic systems, transmissions, and more.

Qualifications

• 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, SAT, or ACCUPLACER as listed.

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.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Reading schematics

PC literacy

Diagnostics knowledge

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Windows

Excel

Word

Job description

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:

• 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

• 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

Other Requirements

• 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.

Listing is current as of Sep 19, 2026 03:45 AM