1

Apprentice Freight Car Repair Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Accountable for planning and scheduling department maintenance, repair and installation of ... steel freight car and locomotive wheels; experience in design, mechanical and electrical ...

New

Work to develop best practice procedures for major repairs. * Continuously educate and train ... Work with Shop Managers and Supervisors on developing and training Apprentices * Develop and manage ...

Work to develop best practice procedures for major repairs. * Continuously educate and train ... Work with Shop Managers and Supervisors on developing and training Apprentices * Develop and manage ...

Work to develop best practice procedures for major repairs. * Continuously educate and train ... Work with Shop Managers and Supervisors on developing and training Apprentices * Develop and manage ...

1st Shift Cleaning Technician

Oelwein, IA

$14.25 - $18/hr

... Car Company (UTLX) and Procor, delivers fullservice railcar repair and maintenance through a broad North American network of fixed shops and mobile field service teams. Serving freight and tank car ...

Welder Technician, Assoc

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

... freight rail transportation equipment and services. Greenbrier's heritage of hard work and ... Performs required refurbishing and/or repairs to rail car components using welders, grinders ...

1st Shift Cleaning Technician

Oelwein, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

... Car Company (UTLX) and Procor, delivers full-service railcar repair and maintenance through a broad North American network of fixed shops and mobile field service teams. Serving freight and tank car ...

Realigns car chassis and frames to repair structural damage. * Removes damaged sections of vehicles ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

New

Auto Body Technician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$70K - $125K/yr

Realigns car chassis and frames to repair structural damage. * Removes damaged sections of vehicles ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

New

Auto Body Technician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$70K - $125K/yr

Realigns car chassis and frames to repair structural damage. * Removes damaged sections of vehicles ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

New

Auto Body Technician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$70K - $125K/yr

Realigns car chassis and frames to repair structural damage. Removes damaged sections of vehicles ... Successful completion of technical school program OR a 3-year apprenticeship as an auto body ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Apprentice Freight Car Repair information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do apprentice freight car repair jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice freight car repair in Iowa is $18.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $19.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an apprentice freight car repair do?

An Apprentice Freight Car Repair works under the supervision of experienced railcar mechanics to learn how to inspect, maintain, and repair freight train cars. Their duties include learning to identify wear and damage, replacing or repairing components such as brakes, wheels, and structural parts, and ensuring all work meets safety standards. Apprentices receive hands-on training and gradually take on more complex repairs as they gain experience. This role is essential for keeping freight trains safe and operational.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apprentice freight car repair?

To thrive as an Apprentice Freight Car Repair, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, manual dexterity, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety protocols, and potentially OSHA certifications are important for this role. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn help apprentices excel in both independent and team-based repair tasks. These skills and qualities ensure safe, efficient maintenance of freight cars and contribute to reliable railroad operations.

What are some common challenges faced by an apprentice freight car repair, and how are they typically addressed?

Apprentice Freight Car Repair workers often encounter challenges such as learning to safely handle heavy equipment, troubleshooting mechanical issues on various railcar models, and adapting to outdoor work in all weather conditions. These challenges are addressed through comprehensive on-the-job training, close supervision by experienced mentors, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Teamwork is emphasized, as apprentices regularly collaborate with seasoned repairers and other rail yard staff to ensure efficient and safe repairs.

What is the difference between Apprentice Freight Car Repair vs Apprentice Locomotive Repair?

AspectApprentice Freight Car RepairApprentice Locomotive Repair
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent, technical training
Work EnvironmentRail yards, repair shops, outdoor settingsRail yards, repair shops, outdoor settings
Industry UsageFreight rail companies, maintenance facilitiesRailroad companies, maintenance facilities
Common Search IntentRepair, maintenance, certification, entry-levelRepair, maintenance, certification, entry-level

Both Apprentice Freight Car Repair and Apprentice Locomotive Repair roles involve hands-on maintenance in rail industry settings, requiring similar certifications and work environments. The main difference lies in the specific equipment: freight car repair focuses on freight cars, while locomotive repair centers on engines. Understanding these distinctions helps candidates choose the right career path within the rail industry.

What are popular job titles related to Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs in Iowa?

For Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Apprentice Freight Car Repair job openings:

Maintenance Engineer

Amsted Rail Company Inc

Keokuk, IA

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Amsted Rail rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

179th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description


JOB SUMMARY/PURPOSE

Plans and coordinates maintenance of equipment within a department in a proactive fashion to maximize equipment uptime and verifies repairs are effective. Effectively utilizes computerized maintenance management systems. Forms and leads teams to improve plant maintenance capabilities. Accountable for planning and scheduling department maintenance, repair and installation of production machinery and equipment. Schedules daily and weekend/down day maintenance work and maintains an up to date log of work that needs to be accomplished. Provides technical expertise, guidance and leadership for Multi-crafts, Electricians and Mechanics. Major interactions include plant management and supervision, maintenance personnel, vendors, engineers, purchasing, technical services and contractors. 

PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES

Develops, implements, and maintains proactive maintenance practices.

Effectively utilizes CMMS system.

Plans, schedules and coordinates manpower requirements for department maintenance and equipment repairs to reduce equipment downtime minimize cost and contribute to production efficiencies.

Develops and implements a maintenance plan that is consistent with the TPM philosophy.

Determines root cause of equipment failures and implements solutions to eliminate repetitive downtime

Works with vendors and contractors on maintenance projects

Continually evaluates effectiveness of PM’s. Updates PM’s as needed

Determines spare parts needs and requisitions necessary parts to meet these needs.

Performs other duties as required.

JOB KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or a combination of education and experience in the field.

Three to five years of experience in maintenance management/supervision. Minimum of two years manufacturing experience, prior supervisory experience is preferred.

Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, Access, SAP and SQL or equivalent. Familiar with CAD programs.

Must be available to work schedules as required, cross train as required, and be able to display proficiency in the technical aspects of the area assigned.

KEY CHALLENGES

The effectiveness of this position is measured by the timely completion of projects, with established budgets, that meet or exceed requirements through proper functioning, ease of operation and minimization of maintenance costs. This position requires experience in the types of equipment and facilities necessary to product steel freight car and locomotive wheels; experience in design, mechanical and electrical engineering; plus the ability to work with a wide range of people to successfully complete projects.

WORK CONDITIONS

Unfavorable environment

Moderate hazards

OTHER INFORMATION

The statements contained in this job description reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility. It should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods or otherwise to balance the workload.


What Amsted Rail employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Amsted Rail logo

About Amsted Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amsted Rail is a global leader in providing innovative solutions and components for the rail industry. With a strong commitment to advancing rail technology and improving safety, Amsted Rail offers a wide range of products and services that enhance the performance and reliability of rail systems worldwide. As a trusted partner to railroads, transit systems, and freight operators, Amsted Rail specializes in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of high-quality freight car components, including bogies, couplers, wheelsets, and braking systems. Amsted cutting-edge solutions are engineered to withstand the demands of heavy-duty rail operations, improving efficiency, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing overall railcar performance.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1977