Caterpillar ThinkBIG Program – Diesel Technician

February 7, 2026

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Job Description

Caterpillar ThinkBIG Program – Diesel Technician Apprenticeship

Launch your career in a high-demand and essential field! The Caterpillar ThinkBIG Program, a dynamic partnership between Owens Community College and Ohio CAT, offers an unparalleled opportunity to become a certified and skilled diesel technician. This intensive two-year program seamlessly integrates classroom education with invaluable, hands-on paid shop internships, setting you on a direct path to a successful and rewarding career.

Program Overview:

  • Program Name: Caterpillar ThinkBIG Program
  • Locations: Owens Community College (Classroom) & Ohio CAT Locations (Shop Internships)
  • Duration: 2 Years
  • Compensation: This is a Paid Internship opportunity.

What You’ll Do & Learn:

At Owens Community College:

  • Successfully complete the comprehensive Caterpillar curriculum, specifically designed to provide you with the foundational and advanced theoretical knowledge required for modern diesel technology.
  • Maintain a strong academic standing and GPA, ensuring successful graduation and readiness for your career.
  • Act as a professional and dedicated representative of Ohio CAT within the college environment.

In the Ohio CAT Shop (Paid Internships):

  • Gain invaluable practical expertise by training directly under experienced and certified mentors in a real-world, state-of-the-art service environment.
  • Actively participate in performing essential diesel repair and maintenance tasks on a diverse range of Caterpillar equipment.
  • Continuously develop your technical skills, progressing from basic diagnostic and repair procedures to more advanced and complex assignments as your proficiency and confidence grow.

Who We’re Looking For (Qualifications):

  • Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is required before the program start date.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Demonstrated basic diesel knowledge or a strong mechanical aptitude is essential.
  • Key Skills & Attributes:
    • Strong communication and effective teamwork skills to collaborate with peers, mentors, and customers.
    • A proactive willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic and fast-paced professional environment.
    • Strict adherence to all safety protocols and proper use of necessary tools and equipment.
    • Comfort and proficiency in using computers and specialized diagnostic tools.

Physical Requirements:

This role involves physical demands typical of a diesel service environment, including but not limited to:

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 40 lbs; able to pull up to 50 lbs.
  • Capable of standing, sitting, climbing stairs, and safely entering/exiting heavy machinery.
  • Frequent hand, wrist, and finger movement is required for various detailed tasks.
  • Comfortable working in diverse environments, ranging from quieter office settings to loud shop environments with varying temperatures.

Why Join the Caterpillar ThinkBIG Program?

  • Earn While You Learn: Benefit from a paid internship experience, significantly reducing the financial burden of your education.
  • Industry-Leading Training: Receive specialized Caterpillar curriculum and unparalleled hands-on training directly from Ohio CAT’s experts.
  • Career Launchpad: Prepare for a stable, high-demand, and rewarding career as a certified diesel technician.
  • Expert Mentorship: Learn directly from seasoned professionals who are leaders in the field.
  • Direct Path to Employment: This program is designed to provide a direct pipeline to employment with Ohio CAT upon successful completion, offering excellent career prospects.

Ready to Apply?

Take the first essential step towards a fulfilling and impactful career in diesel technology. Apply today and become an integral part of the esteemed Caterpillar ThinkBIG team at Ohio CAT!

Ohio CAT is an EEO, Veterans & Disabled Employer and VEVRAA/503 Federal Contractor.