John Deere Product Development Specialist Program

What is the John Deere Product Development Specialist Program?

The John Deere Industrial Mechanic Program offers advanced mechanical and hydraulic training for individuals interested in a career with John Deere. Those completing the program will receive an Associate in Applied Science degree in Electronics Engineering Technology from Hawkeye Community College. The program will be completed in about two years and will include a 1000 hour internship at a manufacturing plant. Participants must meet all Hawkeye Community College entrance requirements and must be successful in the John Deere selection and assessment process before they are accepted into the program.

What are Product Development Specialists?

At John Deere Product Development Specialists work in teams with engineers on a variety of challenging product development and testing assignments. They work on instrumentation, development, and testing for diesel engines, transmissions, axles, and agricultural equipment featuring advanced technology.

What's in it for me?

• Great career opportunity with a Fortune 500 Company in the Cedar Valley.
• Preferential hiring for employment offering great wages and benefits.
• Quality education from Hawkeye Community College.
• Fast Track training program that allows you to get out of the classroom and into the workplace.
• Degree that can transfer to four-year colleges in Iowa for those choosing to continue their education.
• Training for a high-demand profession.
• Access to a forgivable revolving loan fund to make education affordable.
• Opportunity to learn and work in state-of the-art facilities.

What happens at the end of the program?

Individuals completing the program will gain preferential hiring for full-time employment as positions are available at John Deere.

What if I can’t afford school right now?

John Deere, through the Hawkeye Community College Foundation, will offer forgivable loans to be used for Hawkeye's tuition and fees. Participants may apply for a loan from the Foundation for amounts up to two-thirds of the program cost. After the participants complete the program and begin their career with John Deere, the loan balance will be forgiven after three years of employment.

What qualifications do I need to be a candidate?

Applicants must be high school graduates or equivalent, be interested in manufacturing, and be able to attend school full-time. Course work or experience with mathematics, industrial arts, electronics, blueprint reading, and computers is helpful. Strong communications and teamwork skills are also necessary.

How do I apply?

The first step is to complete the Hawkeye application for admissions. You may complete an online application or a paper application (pdf). You will need your high school transcript or GED scores. The staff at Hawkeye will walk you through the rest of the process.

For more information

For more information call 319-296-4000 or 1-800-670-4769.