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Freight Car Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Maintenance Mechanics/Welders

Richmond, VA · On-site

$24.75 - $31.75/hr

Cranemasters Mechanic-Welder Car repair Location: 3001 Williamsburg Road, Richmond, VA, 23231 ... Demonstrated understanding of major freight car components. * Demonstrated understanding of how to ...

Sasser

$15 - $19/hr

Sasser family of companies includes subsidiaries Chicago Freight Car Leasing, CF Rail Services ... Perform repairs such as, but not limited to, mechanical, grinding, cleaning, on various types of ...

Sasser

$15 - $19/hr

Sasser family of companies includes subsidiaries Chicago Freight Car Leasing, CF Rail Services ... Perform repairs such as, but not limited to, mechanical, grinding, cleaning, on various types of ...

Sasser

$15 - $19/hr

Sasser family of companies includes subsidiaries Chicago Freight Car Leasing, Union Leasing, CF ... Perform repairs such as, but not limited to, mechanical, grinding, cleaning, on various types of ...

Florida East Coast Railway

Carman

Fort Lauderdale, FL

$33.80/hr

Inspecting, Testing and Repairing air brakes and freight car parts. * Operating punches and shears ... S.) in applied sciences with emphasis on mechanical applications or equivalent experience as a rail ...

Florida East Coast Railway

Carman

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

$33.80/hr

Inspecting, Testing and Repairing air brakes and freight car parts. * Operating punches and shears ... S.) in applied sciences with emphasis on mechanical applications or equivalent experience as a rail ...

Amsted Rail

Maintenance Engineer

Kansas City, KS

$44.16 - $75.71/hr

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 ...

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All JobsFreight Car Mechanic Jobs

Freight Car Mechanic information

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$24

$40

How much do freight car mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 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 work in shifts or specialized environments.

What is the highest paid car mechanic job?

The highest paid car mechanic jobs are often in specialized fields such as diesel mechanics, automotive master technicians, or those working in luxury or high-performance vehicle repair. Experienced mechanics with certifications like ASE Master Technician and skills in advanced diagnostics tend to earn the highest salaries, especially in metropolitan areas or specialized service centers.

How to become a locomotive mechanic?

To become a locomotive mechanic, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a technical training program or apprenticeship in locomotive or diesel engine repair. Certification from organizations like the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) can enhance job prospects, and hands-on experience with locomotive systems and tools is essential for proficiency in the role.

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.

Can a mechanic make $200,000 a year?

A freight car mechanic can potentially earn $200,000 annually with extensive experience, specialized skills, overtime, and working in high-paying regions or companies. However, this level of income is above the typical salary range for most freight car mechanics, whose median wages are generally lower. Achieving such earnings often requires advanced certifications and a combination of factors beyond standard job duties.
More about Freight Car Mechanic jobs
What states have the most Freight Car Mechanic jobs? States with the most job openings for Freight Car Mechanic jobs include:
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
Infographic showing various Freight Car Mechanic job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 61% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,988 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Mechanical Railcar Repair Technician 1 - 2nd Shift

Sasser

Meridian, MS • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Fortune Magazine and Great Place to Work, Sasser prides itself on supporting an employee-driven, opportunity-based culture that empowers, recognizes, and rewards its employees. From highly competitive benefits to exciting employee events to organic, grassroots philanthropy and volunteerism, Sasser is an awesome place to begin and grow your career. We are a transportation asset services and management company with roots dating to 1928. Sasser's subsidiary units are leaders in providing commercial- and industrial-focused rail, automotive, and containerized shipping solutions, including asset leasing, fleet administration management, asset repair and maintenance, and innovative technology services.
Sasser family of companies includes subsidiaries Chicago Freight Car Leasing, CF Rail Services, Moventum Fleet Management, Express 4x4 Truck Rental, and Falcon Lease. To learn more about what makes Sasser special, visit www.sasser.com.
This role supports our CF Rail Services team. Delivering the highest-quality railcar repairs quickly and safely with uncompromising customer service, CF Rail Services is a leading railcar repair and maintenance provider offering quality repair work for railroads, private car owners, lessors, contracts agents, and shippers across North America.
The Mechanical Railcar Repair Technician 1 role is responsible for the repair of various types of railcars.
This position is for 2nd shift; it will be scheduled 3:30pm - 12:00am.
Role and Responsibilities
  • Perform repairs such as, but not limited to, mechanical, grinding, cleaning, and touch up painting on various types of railcars as required.
  • Set up and operate various hand and power tools such as, but not limited to, air arc, plasma cutting, huck machines and processes, and oxy fuel operation in heating and cutting processes.
  • Documented training to set up and operate or drive equipment such as, but not limited to: forklift, man lift, crane, skid loader, hoist or hydraulic boom.
  • Proficient in documenting work performed on work order, and record of additional repairs
  • Successfully complete this position "Education/Formal Training" requirements.
  • Maintain a high level of quality with an understanding of CFRS' quality assurance program.
  • Must learn develop a complete understanding of various railcars, components and billing repair cards.
  • Keep work area in a clean and orderly manner so as to comply with CFRS, OSHA and environmental rules and regulations.
  • Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.
  • Set an example and conduct activities consistent with the core values of CFRS contributing to a positive environment for communication, empowerment, and continuous improvement.
  • Learn and adhere to all CFRS safety procedures.
  • Learn the basic flow and logistics of railroad industry and repair business.
  • Wear PPE in appropriate areas

Qualifications and Education requirement
  • Education/Formal Training (preferred, but not limited to): High school diploma or General Education Degree (GED); or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Successfully pass the following courses with an 80% or higher score coordinated by CF Rail Management:
    • FRA Freight Car Safety Standards
Skills
Essential Skills:
  • Team player
  • Effective listening skills
  • Highly effective communication skills verbally and in writing

Language skills: Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations in English language.
Mathematical skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Reasoning skills: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Note: Responsibilities include the expectation to always act to support the interests of the department and organization and to perform other duties as assigned to ensure the successful achievement of departmental and company objectives.
Physical Demands
Work assignments involve standing, stooping, bending, kneeling, reaching, climbing, crawling, and crouching in strained and awkward positions for prolonged periods of time at various heights up to 20 feet. Uses hands, legs, and arms to climb vertical ladders to staging or suspended platforms. Lifts, carries, and sets up equipment and components that weigh up to 50 lbs. Employee must be medically certified to wear a respirator, as well as be able to wear respirators for prolonged periods of time.
  • Ability to operate electrical and pneumatic tools
  • Ability to operate heavy equipment (Cranes, Jacks)
  • Ability to operate Forklifts, Mobile Service Trucks, Boom Lifts

Work Environment
Work will be performed outdoors and indoors in all types of weather, on and around heavy equipment. The employee is regularly exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles and outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. May be required to work overtime and/or varied shifts to meet the demands of the business.
#CFRS
The Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

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