About the role#
The ThinkBIG Intern Technician program is a two-year training path for students aiming to become Caterpillar Dealership Service Technicians. You will alternate between classroom instruction at Illinois Central College in East Peoria, Illinois, and hands-on work at Thompson Machinery locations. This rotation happens every eight weeks throughout the program. You will earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science upon completion.
What you'll do#
- 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.
- Read and interpret service manuals, technical instructions, and safety procedures.
- Operate computers and service software for documentation and coursework.
- Work with mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical schematics.
- Use diagnostic tools and test equipment to support troubleshooting.
What you'll need#
- High school diploma or equivalent, with a 2.7 GPA or higher preferred.
- Ability to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA throughout the program.
- Standardized testing score minimums (ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER).
- Valid state driver's license.
- Commitment to complete the full two-year program.
- Ability to operate a PC including Windows, Excel, and Word.
- Willingness to relocate or travel for school attendance.
- Ability to pass a company physical, drug screen, and background check.
Location & details#
- Locations: Tupelo, Mississippi and East Peoria, Illinois.
- Work modality: On-site.
- This is a paid, full-time internship program.
About Thompson Machinery
Thompson Machinery is a machinery manufacturing company founded in 1944. Based in LaVergne, Tennessee, it acts as the exclusive Caterpillar dealer for Middle Tennessee, West Tennessee, and North Mississippi. The company serves construction, forestry, mining, and industrial sectors. It also manages the Thompson Power division for marine and power generation businesses.
How to get in at Thompson Machinery
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