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Freight Car Repair Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As directed by the Car Repair Manager or Car Repair Supervisor responsible for performing ... Demonstrated understanding of major freight car components. * Demonstrated understanding of how to ...

Description As directed by the Car Repair Manager or Car Repair Supervisor responsible for ... Demonstrated understanding of major freight car components. * Demonstrated understanding of how to ...

... 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 ...

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Freight Car Repair information

See salary details

$25.5K

$66.7K

$117K

How much do freight car repair jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for freight car repair in the United States is $66,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Freight Car Repair Technician, you need mechanical aptitude, knowledge of railroad safety standards, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent with specialized training in welding or mechanics. Familiarity with tools such as hydraulic jacks, welding equipment, and diagnostic systems is crucial, and certifications like FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) compliance may be required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient repairs and maintenance, reducing downtime and supporting the safe operation of rail freight.

What are some of the common challenges faced by freight car repair technicians on the job?

Freight car repair technicians often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and may need to perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting heavy parts and working in confined spaces. They must adhere to strict safety regulations while diagnosing and repairing mechanical issues, which can sometimes be complex due to the age or condition of the railcars. Additionally, technicians frequently collaborate with other team members to ensure repairs meet quality and regulatory standards, making strong communication skills essential. Keeping up with evolving technology and regulatory requirements is also an important, ongoing challenge in this role.

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

AspectFreight Car RepairLocomotive Mechanic
Required CertificationsASE certifications, welding licensesASE certifications, diesel engine certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, repair shops, outdoorRail yards, repair shops, outdoor
Industry UsageFreight rail companies, maintenance facilitiesRailroads, freight and passenger train operators

Freight Car Repair and Locomotive Mechanic roles both involve maintaining and repairing rail equipment, often in similar environments. However, Freight Car Repair focuses on freight cars, requiring specific certifications like welding, while Locomotive Mechanics specialize in diesel engines and locomotive systems. Both careers demand technical skills and work in rail yards or repair shops, but they serve different parts of the rail industry.

What are freight car repairers?

Freight car repairers are skilled technicians who inspect, maintain, and repair railroad freight cars to ensure their safe and efficient operation. Their work includes fixing mechanical issues, replacing damaged parts, performing routine maintenance, and adhering to safety regulations. Freight car repairers play a crucial role in the railroad industry by preventing accidents and minimizing train delays caused by faulty equipment.
More about Freight Car Repair jobs
What cities are hiring for Freight Car Repair jobs? Cities with the most 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 Freight Car Repair jobs? States with the most job openings for Freight Car Repair jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freight Car Repair jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freight Car Repair jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freight Car Repair job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 18% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,677 per year, or $32.1 per hour.
Apprentice Freight Car Repair

Apprentice Freight Car Repair

Union Pacific

Hermiston, OR

$35.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Union Pacific rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 93 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 61 rated delivery companies


Job description

Reference Number:  4642 
Department: Mechanical 
Closing Date:  Apply early as this job may be filled at any time.
Rate of Pay: $35.05
Most communications will be done electronically.  Please check email, including spam folders, daily.

If you wish to solicit an employee referral for this position, please ensure the employee submits the referral prior to submitting your application.

Description

Join our team at one of North America's leading railroad companies and embark on a comprehensive three-year training program to become a skilled Freight Car Repairer! As an apprentice in this role, you will gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in inspecting, repairing, and rebuilding freight cars. Every day, you'll be actively involved in conducting inspections, executing scheduled and on-demand maintenance tasks, and skillfully repairing or replacing defective components on our rolling stock.  We are powered by our people, will you join our team?

Accountabilities
  • Conduct thorough inspections to identify defects, wear, and damages resulting from derailments or collisions.
  • Carry out maintenance tasks, including conducting initial terminal air brake tests and pre-trip inspections.
  • Repair structural components of rolling stock, involving tasks such as fabricating, cutting, or performing rough finish operations on metal and wood replacement parts. Additionally, fasten or assemble car parts through riveting, bolting, or welding.
  • Remove and replace faulty components, such as trucks, shoes, coupler assemblies, or air brake systems.
  • Prepare surfaces for painting, welding, and fabrication by cleaning and ensuring proper readiness.
  • Operate various tools and equipment safely and effectively, such as acetylene torches, non-power hand tools, power tools, electric and gas welding equipment, and other shop machines, vehicles, and tools.
  • Communicate technical information, job procedure recommendations, and other work-related information verbally and in writing to colleagues, supervisors, contractors, and customers.
  • Foster positive working relationships with coworkers, supervisors, contractors, and customers, and skillfully resolve any arising situations.
  • Ensure strict compliance with all railroad rules and regulations pertaining to safety, operations, and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) guidelines.
  • Perform additional assigned duties as required.
Qualifications - Required
  • Basic mathematic skills
  • Valid driver's license
  • Proficient verbal and written communication skills to deliver information to coworker(s) and supervisor(s)
  • Experience reading and understanding instructions (examples may include: operating and safety rules, bulletins, special instructions, and federal regulatory documents)
  • To be considered for this position, candidates are required to successfully complete an assessment in English before proceeding to the interview stage.  For more information go to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
Qualifications - Preferred
  • Proficient in operating heavy equipment, including but not limited to construction machinery, farm equipment, etc. (Consider professional, personal, and volunteer experience)
  • Experience working in an environment that necessitates the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, safety boots, hard hats, and hearing protection.
  • Demonstrated ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, drawing from professional, personal, or volunteer experience.
  • Proficient in welding or possessing a welding certificate, backed by professional, personal, or volunteer experience.
  • Skilled in effectively operating a range of tools required for repairing freight/passenger cars, such as 100-ton jacks, air tools, compressors, generators, welders, hydraulic equipment, or torches.
  • Flexibility to work on-call, overtime, various shifts, including weekends, holidays, and potentially 7 days a week.
  • Willingness and capability to work in confined and/or small spaces.
  • Ability to work safely around large equipment, such as railcars, locomotives, and cranes.
Physical Requirements
  • To be considered for employment, candidates must successfully pass a Physical Ability Test (PAT). Please note that this test is separate from the medical exam. For additional details, refer to the FAQs on UP.jobs.
  • Standing: The ability to remain standing for more than half of the workday, with occasional opportunities to change positions for comfort.
  • Walking and Balance: Being capable of frequent walking and maintaining balance on various surfaces. Candidates should also exhibit coordinated hand movements to grasp, place, or move objects.
  • Lifting and Push/Pull: The capacity to push and pull objects weighing up to 93 lbs and lift items weighing up to 85 lbs. Additionally, candidates should be able to occasionally bend, stoop, and kneel as necessary.
  • Climbing: Occasional climbing is required to access cars and work vehicles.
Work Conditions
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring company sponsorship.
  • Perform tasks at elevated heights of 18 feet or above.
  • Apply only to those locations where you are prepared to live and work

Union Pacific strives to attract all available talent. We are committed to creating an environment where all people can be their best, personally and professionally, as we remain a merit and performance-based company.

What we offer:

  • A strengths-based, engagement-focused, and performance-oriented culture
  • Ongoing learning, development, and Educational Assistance (including little to no out-of-pocket cost for online and in-person courses at the University of Nebraska at Omaha and Metropolitan Community College)
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan with 20% match up to 5%
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance, which are collectively bargained for through union membership
    Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs

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