Rail Car Repairers
Rail car repairers keep trains running safely by inspecting, maintaining, and fixing railroad cars and locomotives. They use power tools, welding equipment, and specialized machinery to replace worn parts like bearings, wheels, and brake systems, while following strict safety protocols. This hands-on career requires strong mechanical skills and attention to detail, with training typically provided through technical schools or railroad company apprenticeship programs. Many repairers work in rail yards and maintenance facilities, collaborating with teams to ensure trains meet safety standards before returning to service.
Did you know?
Rail Car Technicians must adhere to strict Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) safety regulations and maintain current certifications to work on railroad equipment.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$65,500 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Repairing
Things to consider
Physical Demands and Working Conditions
The role requires working outdoors in all weather conditions, lifting heavy equipment, and performing physically demanding tasks in potentially hazardous environments.
Career Advancement Opportunities
The growing American freight and passenger rail industry offers pathways to supervisory roles, specialized technical positions, or locomotive engineer careers.
Key responsibilities
Adjust repaired or replaced units as needed to ensure proper operation.
Test electrical systems of cars by operating systems and using testing equipment such as ammeters.
Repair or replace defective or worn parts such as bearings, pistons, and gears, using hand tools, torque wrenches, power tools, and welding equipment.
Disassemble units such as water pumps, control valves, and compressors so that repairs can be made.
Inspect components such as bearings, seals, gaskets, wheels, and coupler assemblies to determine if repairs are needed.