About the role#
The ThinkBIG Internship is a two-year program designed for students who want to learn a skilled trade. You will work toward an Associate in Applied Sciences degree while gaining hands-on experience at an Altorfer branch. This is a paid, full-time position that combines academic coursework with field training.
What you'll do#
You will rotate between two environments every 8 weeks. For 8 weeks, you attend classes at Illinois Central College. For the following 8 weeks, you complete an internship at an Altorfer branch. Your coursework includes Fundamentals of Hydraulics, Caterpillar Engine Fuel Systems, Fundamentals of Electrical Systems, Diagnostic Testing, and Undercarriage/Final Drives. In the shop, you will work in a warehouse environment where you may need to bend, climb on equipment, and lift up to 100 lbs. You will also wear required safety gear like glasses or side shields.
What you'll need#
You must be interested in learning a skilled trade. You are required to be enrolled in the two-year curriculum at Illinois Central College to participate.
Location & details#
This internship is based in Davenport, Iowa. The term begins in Fall 2027. Standard working hours are 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
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.
