Entry Level Railroad Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Railway Car Technician (Car Mechanic)

At CN, we are committed to our pursuit of excellence. We take pride in delivering work of the highest standard, continually innovating to shape the railroad of the future. As responsible railroaders, we make the right decisions every time, putting safety first, acting with unwavering integrity, and holding ourselves accountable for our actions. We believe in succeeding together-by fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we sustainably deliver exceptional results for our customers.

If you are a skilled trades person or interested in skilled trades and continuous learning in a safety-focused environment, working at CN could be a great fit for you. You'll be working on all types of equipment and structures designed to support the distribution of freight across North America. Enjoy paid training and evolve your skills. The careers we offer are meaningful because the work we do matters. Join us and get your career moving!  

Job Summary

The Car Mechanic Apprentice is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, building and repairing railway freight cars and equipment in accordance with Federal and CN's regulations. The incumbent is considered a Car Mechanic Apprentice until they have graduated to Journey Car Mechanic.

Working Conditions

• Irregular shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional overtime
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Frequent bending, stooping, squatting, kneeling, performing overhead work, lifting/carrying up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 85 pounds
• Frequent climbing, balancing, grasping, and good eye-hand coordination
• May be required to work away from assigned terminal. 

Major Responsibilities

• Inspect cars and components in accordance with railroad associations, Federal Railroad Administration regulations, and company operating standards.
• Perform all scheduled, on-request and preventive maintenance and repair on rail cars, under frames, on structures, safety appliances, draft systems and any associated tests.
• Repair and install railway car parts such as compressors, air valves, bearings, couplings, air cylinders and piping.
• Use hand tools, power tools, welding equipment, cutting torches and measuring instruments.

• Operate transport vehicles including cranes, trucks, track mobile and shop equipment.
• Prepare inspection, maintenance and work reports, and record details on prescribed forms in accordance with established procedures.

Requirements   

• High School Diploma or General Educational Development (GED).
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety.
• A valid driver's license.
• Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress.
• Demonstrates good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others.
• Good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills.
• Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety, and client satisfaction.
• Familiarity with electrical and electronic tools and instruments.
• Ability to determine the condition of objects and parts for wear and defects.
• Basic computer skills. 
• Must meet all medical fitness for duty requirements for the position, including requirements for Safety Critical Positions established by the FRA regulation.
• Ability to pass a background investigation pertaining to federal and state criminal history, including driver history

Assets

• Previous welding experience gained through formal training or work experience
• Vocational/technical training and/or knowledge of Railroad Operating Rules
• Familiarity with electrical and electronic tools and instruments
• Ability to work autonomously, adapt to different situations and manage stress
• Demonstrate good teamwork and maintain positive interactions with others
• Good verbal, reading comprehension and writing skills
• Ability to determine the condition of objects/parts for wear and/or defects
• Dedicated to getting the job done while meeting established standards of quality, safety and client satisfaction

What We Offer

• Competitive Wages, Benefits, and Pension Plan
• Paid Training and Career Development
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 24/7 Telemedicine Service
• Employee Share Investment Plan
• Educational Financial Assistance Program
• Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)
• Extensive Employee Discount Program
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)

Paid Training:   

Newly hired Car Mechanics will take part in paid training which includes classroom instructions and field training during their first months of service. The training guides the new Car Mechanic through the critical safety skills required to work on the railroad.

Once the classroom training is complete, the Car Mechanic will complete on the job training to enhance their knowledge and skills. Successful completion of the training course is essential to maintain employment as a Car Mechanic. An apprentice's application may be rescinded in the event that they do not display the aptitude or desire to learn within the first 120 days of their employment.

Successful Candidate Process:

• Medical assessment (including drug, hearing, and vision). 
• Criminal background check
• Offer Letter

Paid Training Structure:

• 3 weeks in CN campus (Homewood, IL)
• 2+ weeks in shop (on-the-job training)
• 3 weeks in CN campus (Homewood, IL)