ThinkBIG Technician Intern — CAT Diesel Tech Path

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

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.