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
Test electrical systems of cars by operating systems and using testing equipment such as ammeters.
Examine car roofs for wear and damage, and repair defective sections, using roofing material, cement, nails, and waterproof paint.
Measure diameters of axle wheel seats, using micrometers, and mark dimensions on axles so that wheels can be bored to specified dimensions.
Record conditions of cars, and repair and maintenance work performed or to be performed.
Repair car upholstery.