2026 ThinkBIG - SD College Diesel Technology Program

Job Description

Job Description

Overview

Butler Machinery Co is looking for future Caterpillar Diesel Technicians. Do you have a passion for construction and mining equipment? Are you a high school student deciding on a college program or are you simply looking for a career change? Do you love working with your hands, have a great attitude, strong work ethic and possess basic mechanical skills? If you answered YES to these questions, please consider applying to the ThinkBIG program.

Our Diesel Technology Program provides a scholarship opportunity and paid internships!

The ThinkBIG program combines classroom and lab education at Lake Area Technical College (LATC) in Watertown, SD and paid internships at one of our 15 CAT dealerships. ThinkBIG students receive up-to-date technical training on Caterpillar systems and equipment. This 2-year program is divided into 9, 8-week terms, rotating from LATC to their internships at their designated store. The internships are scheduled for the 2nd, 4th, 6th and 8th rotations. This education and training will provide the foundation of skills needed to begin a lucrative, life-long career in diesel technology.

Upon completion of the ThinkBIG program, graduates earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Diesel Technology. Graduates will then transition to full-time employment at a Butler Machinery dealership location with technician positions starting at $31.78 / hour. Complementing the salary, benefits, and continued education as a full-time position, Butler provides the potential for career advancement within the company at locations throughout North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Montana.

Learn more about Butler’s ThinkBIG Program by visiting https : / / www.butlermachinery.com / careers / ThinkBIG

Responsibilities for a ThinkBIG Student :

• Maintains a minimum grade point average of 3.0 while in the program
• Work the minimum number of internship hours required by the program. (1,280)
• Prepared and on time and for work and school
• Proactively maintains a safe and clean work environment.
• Work independently as well as part of a team
• Tuition, books, housing, tools and fees not covered by scholarship
• Secure housing arrangements at the school as well as the internship location.
• Committed to lifelong learning and training to stay ahead of industry standards
• Must be able to lift up to 70 lbs
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications for a ThinkBIG Student :

Required

We are looking for ideal candidates who embrace the following values

EOE / Vet / Disability