ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Apprentice Freight Car Repair Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cranemasters

Supervisor- Car repair

Merrillville, IN · On-site

... derailments, car repair, load adjust/transfer and track maintenance/repair and new build ... of freight car components. * Must pass qualification tests as required (includes: ERail Safe and ...

Cranemasters

Supervisor - Car Repair

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

Demonstrated knowledge of capabilities and uses of various types of rigging and general understanding of freight car components. * Must pass qualification tests as required (includes: ERail Safe and ...

Cranemasters

Supervisor - Car Repair

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

Demonstrated knowledge of capabilities and uses of various types of rigging and general understanding of freight car components. * Must pass qualification tests as required (includes: ERail Safe and ...

The Greenbrier Companies

Mechanical Field Inspector

TX · Remote

$25.75 - $34.25/hr

Summary The Mechanical Field Inspector is a technical and regulatory authority responsible for ensuring freight car construction, repair, modification, and maintenance performed by contracted ...

Sasser

Inspection Specialist

Meridian, MS · On-site

$19 - $25.50/hr

AAR Billing Repair Card for Interchange Rules * FRA Freight Car Safety Standards * Lettering and Marking * Freight Car Inspection Overview * Basics of Railroad Wheels * Car Air Brakes (chalk talk two)

Cranemasters

Car Repairman

Candor, NC

In this role, you will perform maintenance, repair, fabrication, and welding work on railroad cars ... of freight car components, AAR Field Manual, and industry safety regulations (including Blue Flag ...

Cranemasters

Car Repairman

Richmond, VA · On-site

In this role, you will perform maintenance, repair, fabrication, and welding work on railroad cars ... of freight car components, AAR Field Manual, and industry safety regulations (including Blue Flag ...

Cranemasters

Car Repairman

Candor, NC · On-site

In this role, you will perform maintenance, repair, fabrication, and welding work on railroad cars ... • Knowledge of freight car components, AAR Field Manual, and industry safety regulations ...

The Greenbrier Companies

Mechanical Field Inspector

OR · On-site

$26 - $34.50/hr

Summary The Mechanical Field Inspector is a technical and regulatory authority responsible for ensuring freight car construction, repair, modification, and maintenance performed by contracted ...

Sasser

Field Service Technician

Hammond, IN · On-site

... repair and maintenance, and innovative technology services ... Sasser family of companies includes subsidiaries Chicago Freight Car Leasing, Union Leasing, CF ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsApprentice Freight Car Repair Jobs

Apprentice Freight Car Repair information

See salary details

$11

$19

$28

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

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice freight car repair in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Freight Car Repair, and why are they important?

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 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 some common challenges faced by an Apprentice Freight Car Repair worker, 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 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.
More about Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs
What cities are hiring for Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs? Cities with the most Apprentice Freight Car Repair job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Freight Car Repair jobs? The most popular types of Freight Car Repair jobs are:
What states have the most Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs? States with the most job openings for Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs are:
Apprentice Freight Car Repair jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Freight Car Repair job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,268 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Supervisor- Car repair

Supervisor- Car repair

Cranemasters

Merrillville, IN • On-site

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description
As a full-service railroad contractor, Cranemasters aspires to be the industry leader by providing the most diversified offering of support services and equipment. This diversification allows Cranemasters to offer a "one stop shop" to our customers, adding value to their businesses while being easy to use. Through innovative engineering and sound business practices, we are dedicated to meeting our customers' needs in a safe, professional, cost effective, and expeditious manner while developing employees in an environment built on teamwork and mutual respect. Learn more at www.cranemasters.com.
Responsibilities
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
Responsible for leading field operations for service delivery in response to derailments, car repair, load adjust/transfer and track maintenance/repair and new build assignments. Supervises and trains work crew ensuring that job assignments are carried out with an emphasis on safety. Ensures that work crew performs tasks as directed for efficiency while meeting all standards for quality. Responsible for submission of timely/accurate project reports and data necessary for payroll. Ensures that all activities are carried out in a safe, effective, professional, and efficient manner so as to protect employees and the assets of the Company.
HOW YOU MAKE AN IMPACT
  • Conducts daily job briefing reinforcing Cranemasters commitment to safety of employees by identifying potential risks, correction of any hazardous conditions, ensuring that PPE is worn and striving to eliminate employee injuries through awareness and commitment to safe job performance.
  • Distributes work assignments. Ensures that crew members have materials, tools and/or equipment as needed to carryout assigned tasks.
  • Actively participates in oversight of task accomplishment as required for project completion ensuring that all work meets Cranemasters quality standards. Directs assignments and equipment operation including manual labor for safe completion of project.
  • Directly interacts with railroad customers at all levels (managers, superintendents, engineers, etc.). Ensures professional interaction through proactive communication and follow-ups on project status.
  • Ensures that all required reports/data/documentation is collected, accurate, and submitted on a timely basis. Includes: payroll data, equipment usage, project reports, etc.
  • Ensures that Cranemasters policies, procedures and work processes are carried out according to established policy. Trains employees to ensure that they understand policies and procedures and comply as needed for smooth operations and flow of communications across the organization.
  • Provides coaching/counseling/feedback to employees to further develop their knowledge, skills, and abilities. Provides on-the-job training ensuring that employees enhance their technical skills and interpersonal/communication skills.
  • Assesses employee performance in order to conduct performance reviews. Meets with employee to provide accurate and valuable feedback regarding job performance. Identifies training needs and goals for further development of employee's skills and works to ensure that employee is afforded opportunity during the upcoming review period to attain these goals.
  • Monitors equipment/vehicles to minimize down town and to ensure operational readiness. Reports any out of service issues to Shop Manager or Foreman immediately.
  • Completes weekly safety observations.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED
  • 2 years progressively responsible experience in railroad industry including solid knowledge of D.O.T. regulations including permitting for overweight and oversized loads, FRA regulations, and Cranemasters safety policies and procedures.
  • Must possess a valid drivers' license with preference for possession of Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
  • Possesses technical skills in operation of multiple pieces of equipment including cranes, trucks, trailers, backhoes, excavators, etc. and be able to train others in their operation.
  • Computer skills (including MS Office programs) and ability to learn additional software as required for operational needs including submission of project reports, payroll data, labor hours, etc.
  • Strong and proactive communication skills as necessary to coach/counsel/provide feedback to employees, conduct job briefings, debriefings and communicate as necessary to improve and enhance the culture of the organization.
  • Demonstrated ability to read and understand crane load charts. Demonstrated knowledge of capabilities and uses of various types of rigging and general understanding of freight car components.
  • Must pass qualification tests as required (includes: ERail Safe and other training/safety programs).
  • Must meet 24/7 availability in order to respond to emergency calls for service including weekends and holidays.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • Constantly on feet
  • Walking on uneven surfaces and in ballast.
  • Working in ALL weather conditions.
  • Working extended hours.
  • Regular bending, twisting, stooping, standing, and / or walking.
  • Occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds; loads in excess of 50 pounds and which can be reduced, should be made lighter.

NOTE: Cranemasters is a 24/7 emergency service provider to the railroad industry and as such, the Driver/Operator is subject to work outside of normal working hours including nights, weekends and/or holidays.

Apply