SkillBridge: Military Technicians & Mechanics - Mustang CAT

Heavy Equipment Technician SkillBridge Internship

Program Overview

Mustang CAT has supported Houston’s growth for more than 70 years and is now proud to support transitioning service members through this heavy equipment technician SkillBridge internship. Developed in partnership with BufferSprings, this program delivers hands-on experience, Caterpillar-specific training, and real mentorship in a high-demand industry.

Participants will work in shop and field environments, gain experience on Caterpillar equipment, and receive career development support to prepare for life after service.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform diagnostics, maintenance, and repair on Caterpillar heavy equipment
  

• Support in-shop and on-site repairs depending on assigned location
  

• Work with diesel engines, hydraulic systems, electrical components, and undercarriages
  

• Assist in preventive maintenance inspections and documentation
  

• Participate in team meetings and client service calls
  

• Train with experienced heavy equipment technicians and service managers
  

• Complete a final hands-on capstone project to demonstrate technical growth
  

Training Plan Structure: 

Phase 1: Orientation and Safety

• Shop safety training and tool introduction
  

• Mustang CAT operations and service overview
  

• Launch BufferSprings transition support modules
  

• Perform basic repairs and routine maintenance
  

• Shadow senior technicians in shop and field environments
  

• Resume development, LinkedIn optimization, and professional goal setting
  

• Lead repair assignments and support advanced diagnostics
  

• Build leadership, communication, and time management skills
  

• Attend BufferSprings Huddle Sessions on career transition and job readiness
  

• Complete a final repair or diagnostic project
  

• Finalize resume and prepare for post-service employment
  

• Receive one-on-one coaching and feedback from Mustang CAT and BufferSprings mentors
  

Ideal Candidate Background

Eligible candidates must be active-duty U.S. service members approved or in the process of obtaining approval for DoD SkillBridge. Preferred military experience includes mechanical, maintenance, or heavy equipment support roles.

Aligned MOS and AFSC examples include:

• Army: 91B, 91H, 91L
  

• Marine Corps: 3521, 3522, 1341
  

• Navy: CM, EN, MM
  

• Air Force: 2T3X1, 2A6X6, 3E2X1
  

• Coast Guard: MK, DC, EM
  

Candidates with experience maintaining tactical vehicles, heavy machinery, construction equipment, or transport systems are especially encouraged to apply.

Additional Support

Participants will also receive access to BufferSprings’ reBoot Camp curriculum, which covers:

• Health and wellness strategies for post-military life
  

• Financial literacy and transition planning
  

• Civilian workplace expectations and soft skill development
  

• Career coaching and networking within the military-connected ecosystem
  

Requirements

Eligibility

This SkillBridge opportunity is open to all transitioning active-duty U.S. service members. Officer or enlisted, any branch, any rank. You must have at least 45 days of active-duty service remaining and be approved or in the approval process through your command.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Mechanical aptitude with a strong understanding of diesel systems
  

• Working knowledge of electrical and hydraulic components
  

• Proven ability to diagnose and repair heavy equipment or vehicles
  

• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to safety
  

• At least 2 years of hands-on mechanical experience, preferably in heavy equipment maintenance
  

Preferred Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
  

• Experience with Caterpillar equipment is a major plus
  

• Familiarity with hydraulic systems, powertrains, transmissions, and undercarriage repair
  

• Ability to work independently or as part of a field service team
  

Benefits

Why You’ll Want to Be Here

• Sign-on bonus up to $2,000
  

• Strong work-life balance with reliable hours
  

• On-site medical clinic for employees
  

• Boot and tool allowances to keep you mission ready
  

• Tuition reimbursement for continued growth
  

• Clear advancement path with real leadership opportunities
  

• Long-term stability with a Houston-built brand that has your back
  

• Full-time benefits including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, holidays, and a 401(k) with match
  

• Access to Mustang CAT’s Technician Review Program and company-wide gain share
  

Compensation and Perks for Heavy Equipment Technicians

• Hourly pay ranges from $16 to $40 based on your experience and skill level
  

• Guaranteed 40-hour workweeks with plenty of overtime
  

• Gain share based on company performance
  

• Relocation assistance available
  

• Comprehensive benefits package including life insurance and disability
  

Career Progression That’s Actually Built for You

Mustang CAT gives you a real path forward. Start in the shop and move up based on performance, training, and leadership potential.

• Shop Technician
  

• Lead Tech
  

• Tech Coach
  

• Field Service Technician
  

• Shop Supervisor
  

• Operations or Technical Management
  

Every step is supported with training, mentorship, and responsibility that grows with you.

Support from BufferSprings

While you are gaining hands-on experience at Mustang CAT, BufferSprings is working in parallel to prepare you for your civilian career. You will receive:

• Professional resume and LinkedIn coaching
  

• Access to BufferSprings Academy and our reBoot Camp modules
  

• Weekly Huddle Sessions for networking, mentorship, and career prep
  

• Ongoing support from veterans who have already made the leap
  

We are with you every step of the way during SkillBridge and beyond.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Mustang CAT and BufferSprings are equal opportunity employers. We hire based on merit, potential, and alignment with our mission. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to building teams that reflect the strength and diversity of the military-connected community.