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Freight Car Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer

Wilmerding, PA · On-site

Wabtec Freight Car Products is a leader in the design and manufacture of freight car pneumatic ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology or ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer

Wilmerding, PA · On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

Wabtec Freight Car Products is a leader in the design and manufacture of freight car pneumatic ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology or ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer

Wilmerding, PA

$62K - $85K/yr

Wabtec Freight Car Products is a leader in the design and manufacture of freight car pneumatic ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology or ...

Wabtec

Mechanical Engineer

Wilmerding, PA

$62K - $85K/yr

Wabtec Freight Car Products is a leader in the design and manufacture of freight car pneumatic ... Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology or ...

TTX

Production Mechanic 1

Slaton, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $27/hr

PRODUCTION MECHANIC FLSA Status: Non-Exempt JOB SUMMARY Repairs, modifies, and upgrades rail cars ... TTX Company is a leading provider of railcars and related freight car management services to the ...

TTX Company

Production Mechanic 1

Slaton, TX · On-site

$22.25 - $27/hr

PRODUCTION MECHANIC FLSA Status: Non-Exempt JOB SUMMARY Repairs, modifies, and upgrades rail cars ... About Us TTX Company is a leading provider of railcars and related freight car management services ...

Harbor Services

Car Cleaner

Brackettville, TX · On-site

$14 - $15/hr

Stock and store freight car materials as needed. * Maintain a clean and organized work area ... Basic mechanical knowledge is beneficial. Language and Reasoning Skills: * Must be able to read ...

Sasser

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Sasser family of companies includes subsidiaries Chicago Freight Car Leasing, Union Leasing, CF ... The employee is regularly exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts; fumes or ...

HARBOR RAIL SERVICES

Car Cleaner

Brackettville, TX

$14 - $15/hr

Stock and store freight car materials as needed. * Maintain a clean and organized work area ... Basic mechanical knowledge is beneficial. Language and Reasoning Skills: * Must be able to read ...

Mid-America Car, Inc.

Automotive Painter

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$27 - $32.59/hr

Mid America Car Inc. - Locomotive is currently seeking a Locomotive and Railroad Freight Car ... Must have previous experience using mechanical hand-tools. * This is strenuous work requiring good ...

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Freight Car Mechanic information

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How much do freight car mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for freight car mechanic in the United States is $24.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the $160,000 mechanic job that Ford can't fill?

The high-paying $160,000 mechanic job often refers to specialized roles such as heavy-duty truck or locomotive mechanics, including freight car mechanics, who require advanced skills, certifications, and experience. These positions involve working with complex equipment, often in challenging environments, and are in high demand due to a shortage of qualified technicians.

What is the difference between Freight Car Mechanic vs Locomotive Engineer?

AspectFreight Car MechanicLocomotive Engineer
CertificationsASE certifications, specialized train car repair licensesEngineer certification, locomotive operation licenses
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, rail yards, maintenance facilitiesLocomotive cabs, train yards, on-track operation
Industry UsageRailroad maintenance, freight companiesTrain operation, freight and passenger services

Freight Car Mechanics focus on repairing and maintaining railcars in repair shops and yards, ensuring safety and functionality. Locomotive Engineers operate trains, controlling movement and safety during transit. While both roles are essential in rail transportation, Freight Car Mechanics handle maintenance, whereas Locomotive Engineers are responsible for train operation.

What are some common challenges faced by freight car mechanics and how can they be addressed?

Freight car mechanics often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, handling heavy equipment, and diagnosing complex mechanical issues. Staying up to date with safety protocols and regularly attending training sessions can help address these challenges. Collaborating closely with team members and communicating effectively with supervisors is essential to ensure safe and efficient repairs. Proactively maintaining tools and equipment can also minimize downtime and improve work efficiency.

How much does a rail car mechanic make?

A freight car mechanic typically earns between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled mechanics with certifications and experience in repairing and maintaining rail cars can earn higher wages and may receive benefits such as overtime pay and health insurance.

How to make 100k a year as a mechanic?

A freight car mechanic can earn $100,000 annually by gaining extensive experience, obtaining specialized certifications, and working in high-demand or supervisory roles. Working overtime, specializing in complex repairs, and working for large companies or in regions with higher wages can also increase earning potential.

What is the highest paid car mechanic job?

The highest paid car mechanic jobs are often in specialized fields such as automotive diagnostics, high-performance vehicle repair, or working for luxury brands, with master technicians and those with advanced certifications earning higher salaries. Experience, certifications, and working in affluent areas or for premium brands can significantly increase earning potential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freight Car Mechanic, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freight Car Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, welding, and blueprint reading, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with specialized tools, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and compliance with safety standards such as FRA regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient maintenance and repair of freight cars, minimizing downtime and supporting overall rail operations.

What are Freight Car Mechanics?

Freight Car Mechanics are skilled technicians responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining railroad freight cars to ensure their safe and efficient operation. They examine parts such as brakes, wheels, and couplings, and perform both routine maintenance and emergency repairs. These mechanics often work with specialized tools and equipment, and must adhere to strict safety standards set by the rail industry. Their work is essential for preventing accidents and keeping freight transportation reliable.
More about Freight Car Mechanic jobs
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What job categories do people searching Freight Car Mechanic jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freight Car Mechanic jobs are:
Freight Car Mechanic jobs near you

Locomotive Mechanic - Lexington, KY

R J Corman Railroad Group

Lexington, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 hours ago

Job description

R. J. Corman Railroad Company is seeking a Locomotive Mechanic to join our team in Lexington, KY. The candidate will perform maintenance on locomotives, railroad cars, and on-track equipment; perform service repairs; and perform F.R.A. inspections on equipment.
Responsibilities:
  • Locomotive and FRA inspections.
  • Locomotive repairs including mechanical, air and electrical.
  • Performs preventative maintenance on company locomotives and equipment.
  • Freight car repair and general equipment repairs if necessary.
  • Troubleshoots and repairs equipment as needed.
  • Maintain safe and clean work area.

Job Requirements:
  • Experienced in locomotive and FRA inspections
  • Ability to travel if necessary
  • Ability to work unconventional shifts and be on-call
  • Locomotive repairs including mechanical, air and electrical
  • Knowledge of power and hydraulic tools

Benefits: R. J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits.
R. J. Corman offers the following:
Full-Time Team Members:
  • Railroad Retirement benefits
  • Immediate Eligibility Starting Day One of Employment:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
    • PTO (Paid Time Off) Accrual
    • 8 Paid Holidays Per Year
      • Veteran's Day is a Paid Holiday for US Veterans
    • Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
    • Voluntary Short and Long-Term Disability
    • Voluntary Accident Insurance
  • FSA and HSA Options
  • 401K Employer Match
  • Paid Maternity Leave
  • Group Life Insurance

All Team Members:
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Discounts from Various Suppliers
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Annual Boot Voucher
  • Company Provided PPE
  • Prescription Safety Glasses Allowance

R. J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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