About the role#
The ThinkBIG internship is a two-year rotation program designed for students pursuing an Associate in Applied Sciences degree. You will split your time between classroom instruction at Illinois Central College and hands-on work at an Altorfer branch. Each segment lasts 8 weeks and continues throughout the duration of the program.
What you'll do#
- Attend Illinois Central College for 8-week sessions to study core technical subjects.
- Complete 8-week internships at an Altorfer branch to apply your skills in a shop environment.
- Study topics including Fundamentals of Hydraulics, Caterpillar Engine Fuel Systems, Fundamentals of Electrical Systems, Diagnostic Testing, and Undercarriage/Final Drives.
- Work Monday through Friday from 6:30 AM to 3:00 PM during your time at the dealership.
- Perform physical tasks such as walking, climbing on equipment, bending, and lifting 75-100 lbs.
What you'll need#
- A drive for a career in service technology.
- High School Diploma or equivalent.
- Valid driver's license.
- Ability to maintain an above-average grade point.
- Basic computer skills with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
- Strong time management, planning, and organizational skills.
- Team-oriented mindset and a commitment to detail.
Location & details#
- Location: Mokena, Illinois.
- Term: Summer 2027 start.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: $26.31 per hour.
- Additional benefits include tuition reimbursement, tool insurance, and safety equipment reimbursement.
About Altorfer Cat
Altorfer Cat operates within the machinery manufacturing sector. It supports clients in construction, agriculture, and power generation. The company maintains a workforce of 1,001 to 5,000 employees. It is a privately held organization based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
How to get in at Altorfer Cat
Applying early gives you a significant advantage at Altorfer Cat, as recruiters often review candidates before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, helping you apply among the first. This timing ensures your application is seen before the pile grows. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the people actually hiring for these roles. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's open positions, allowing you to connect directly to ask about the role or request a referral. Taking this step often helps you stand out from the standard queue.
