Intern Technician - Salina ThinkBIG 2027
Internship will begin June 2027.
About the role
The Caterpillar ThinkBIG program offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring diesel technicians. Through this program, you'll receive comprehensive training, earn an Associate of Applied Science degree, and gain over 2,000 hours of valuable work experience. The program blends practical experience with academic learning in a hands-on environment.
Foley Equipment partners with the following institutions for the Caterpillar ThinkBIG program:
- Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) in Okmulgee, Oklahoma
- State Tech in Linn, Missouri
- WSU Tech in Wichita, Kansas
As a ThinkBIG Intern Technician at Foley, you can expect:
- Hands-on Environment: Learn by working directly on state-of-the-art Caterpillar® equipment both at school and during your paid internship at your nearest Foley location.
- Paid Internship: Earn while you learn! All intern hours worked at a Foley location are compensated.
- Rotational Structure: Alternate between your ThinkBIG School and your local Foley location, with rotations typically lasting 7 to 8 weeks each.
- Year-Round Commitment: The program spans two years, allowing consistent skill and knowledge development.
- Housing Requirement: Students must arrange for housing during both school and internship rotations (on or near the school campus and in close proximity to their local Foley location).
Learn more at https://careers.foleyeq.com/thinkbig/.
Responsibilities
- Adhere to Foley's culture, prioritizing safety above all else.
- Work closely with experienced mentors to develop a solid understanding of system workings, procedures, processes, and safety requirements.
- Attend, participate, and learn in school, maintaining minimum program grade requirements and remaining in good standing with the school and ThinkBIG program.
- Complete and submit all required assignments, including those involving the internship.
- Occasionally travel for training purposes and/or to assist at other Foley locations.
Requirements
- Dependability: Demonstrate excellent attendance and punctuality both at school and during the internship.
- Education: Possess a high school diploma or equivalent qualification.
- Curiosity and Learning Attitude: Embrace the opportunity to participate in and absorb the assigned technical curriculum for Caterpillar equipment.
- Long-term Vision: Seek a career path that offers stability and a promising future.
- Mechanical Aptitude: Meet the initial mechanical and aptitude testing requirements, supported by previous automotive classes, military training, or a natural mechanical inclination.
Skills
What will put you ahead:
- Previous mechanical experience and a strong drive to excel in troubleshooting and continuous learning.
- A proven work ethic and collaborative mindset, contributing positively to the team dynamic.
- A genuine desire to learn from others and a strong focus on maintaining a safe working environment.
- The ability to confidently apply newly acquired procedures, translating theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
Benefits
- Upon successful completion of the program, participants may be considered for full-time Technician opportunities within the organization.
- Tools and toolbox worth approximately $10,000.
- 401(k) with matching.
- Scholarship opportunities.
- Stipend each semester to help offset school and living expenses.
- Tuition reimbursement.
- Work boot reimbursement.
- Prescription Safety Glasses reimbursement.
Physical & Working Requirements
This role involves hands-on mechanical work in a shop environment. The employee must be able to perform essential job functions, with or without reasonable accommodation. These functions may include:
- Safely and repeatedly lifting components weighing up to 115 pounds without assistance.
- Safely lifting, carrying, and lowering components weighing up to 65 pounds without assistance.
- Climbing on and off equipment and working at varying heights.
- Standing, bending, and working in physically demanding positions for extended periods.
- Safely operating tools and equipment.
About Foley Equipment
Foley Industries – Foley Equipment, Foley Power Solutions, Foley Rental, and SITECH Central – serves customers in Kansas and Western Missouri. With a dedicated team of over 1,000 employees, we deliver exceptional service, top-quality parts and rentals, and unparalleled sales support across Caterpillar and allied construction equipment, power generation solutions, and cutting-edge SITECH construction technology. Learn more at www.FoleyEq.com.