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Rail Car Mechanic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pregis

Rail Car Attendant - Night Shift

Anderson, SC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

When not performing rail car unloading or pumping duties, assist with staging, organizing, and ... Basic mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills * Strong attention to detail and commitment to ...

Cando Rail & Terminals

Railcar Washer

Gregory, TX · On-site

Good mechanical aptitude and knowledge of rail car components * Be willing and able to learn and perform as part of the switching crews performing the railcar movements on site * Ability to read and ...

Carter Lard Consulting

Railcar Technician

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$26/hr

Rail Car Technicians must be multi-crafted in order to perform basic work assignments in any of the four assignment areas identified below. Mechanical : Performs metal finishing efficiently and ...

Cando Rail & Terminals Ltd.

Railcar Washer

Gregory, TX · On-site

Good mechanical aptitude and knowledge of rail car components * Be willing and able to learn and perform as part of the switching crews performing the railcar movements on site * Ability to read and ...

Archer Daniels Midland

$26.42/hr

Flour Milling Rail Car Cleaner- Minneapolis, MN Starting Pay: $26.42 Shift: Monday - Friday, 5am ... Experience in industrial or mechanical manufacturing environment. Physical Requirements and Working ...

VLS Environmental Solutions

Inspector

Victoria, TX

Rail Car Inspector Certification: Must possess valid certification in rail car inspection or be willing to obtain certification within the specified time frame. * Mechanical Aptitude: Proficiency in ...

Carter Lard Consulting

Field Engineer

Bronx, NY · On-site

$85K - $123K/yr

... Rail Car in searching for a Field Engineer in Bronx. Performs various sequences of complex troubleshooting and repair techniques on manufacturing equipment's electrical/electronic or mechanical ...

Bi-State Development

MetroLink Mechanic

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Applies principles/techniques as applied to rail car equipment and maintainsup-to-date knowledge of ... Maintains up-to-date knowledge of electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical ...

MTA, Inc.

Car Repairman Trainee

Kew Gardens, NY · On-site

$46.78/hr

Perform daily and periodic mechanical inspections as required by the CFR. * Performs scheduled and on demand passenger railroad car equipment maintenance tasks such as: (but not limited to) air brake ...

Bi-State Development

MetroLink Mechanic

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Applies principles/techniques as applied to rail car equipment and maintainsup-to-date knowledge of ... Maintains up-to-date knowledge of electronic, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and mechanical ...

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Rail Car Mechanic information

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How much do rail car mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for rail 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 does a rail car mechanic do?

A Rail Car Mechanic is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing rail cars to ensure they operate safely and efficiently. Their duties include checking mechanical systems, replacing worn or broken components, troubleshooting problems, and performing routine maintenance tasks. Rail Car Mechanics work with both freight and passenger rail cars, using specialized tools and diagnostic equipment. Safety is a top priority, as their work helps prevent accidents and service interruptions. They often work in rail yards, maintenance shops, or on-site at rail facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a rail car mechanic?

To thrive as a Rail Car Mechanic, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of rail car systems, and typically a high school diploma or vocational training in mechanics. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, welding equipment, and maintenance management systems is commonly required, and certifications like the FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) safety training can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of rail cars, which is critical for transportation safety and compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by rail car mechanics on the job?

Rail car mechanics often work in environments that require adaptability and problem-solving skills, as they may encounter unexpected mechanical issues or tight repair deadlines. A key challenge is diagnosing complex problems in older or heavily used rail cars, which may not always have up-to-date documentation or parts readily available. Additionally, mechanics must adhere to strict safety standards and work collaboratively with other team members, such as electricians and inspectors, to ensure repairs meet regulatory requirements and trains are returned to service safely and efficiently.

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

AspectRail Car MechanicLocomotive Engineer
CertificationsASE certifications, specialized rail certificationsCommercial driver's license (CDL), locomotive operation certifications
Work EnvironmentRail yards, maintenance shops, industrial sitesLocomotive cab, train routes, rail yards
Industry UsageRailroad maintenance, repair of rail carsOperating trains, ensuring safe transit
Job FocusInspecting, repairing, and maintaining rail carsDriving trains, managing train operations

While both roles are essential in the rail industry, Rail Car Mechanics focus on maintaining and repairing rail cars, ensuring safety and functionality. Locomotive Engineers operate trains, managing their movement and safety during transit. Both require specialized certifications and work in rail environments, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

Are railway car mechanics in high demand?

Rail car mechanics are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for maintenance and repair of freight and passenger railcars. Employment opportunities are often influenced by the transportation industry’s growth, infrastructure investments, and the requirement for specialized skills such as welding and hydraulic systems knowledge.

How much does a rail car mechanic make?

A rail car mechanic typically earns between $45,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Skilled mechanics who work with specialized tools and certifications may earn higher wages and overtime pay. The job often requires physical work in a maintenance shop or on the track.

How to become a rail car mechanic?

To become a rail car mechanic, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience through vocational training or apprenticeships in mechanical repair. Knowledge of electrical systems, hydraulics, and safety procedures is essential, and some employers may require certifications such as ASE or specific industry training. On-the-job experience and technical skills are crucial for maintaining and repairing rail cars efficiently.
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Rail Car Mechanic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Rail Car Mechanic job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 60% 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.

Oil Car Operator - Borger Plant

Borger, TX • On-site

Tokai Carbon CB Ltd.
Chemical Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Tokai Carbon CB Ltd.external

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

The role of Oil Car Operator is integral in the carbon black manufacturing process. This role follows standard procedures to efficiently operate equipment to unload oil timely, effectively and with heightened caution to potential environmental impacts. Oil Car Operators may spend time observing work processes of other Operators for training and knowledge expansion purposes. This role works with other Operators in the manufacturing process to ensure various grades of carbon black are made as well as the proper amounts of energy through the cogeneration process are created for resale to the power grid.

Essential Functions
  • Follow established oil car unloading procedures including but not limited to:
    • Accurate and efficient operation oil car unloading equipment
    • Ensure proper positioning and security of each rail car at the loading rack
    • Validate the product contained is appropriate for transfer into specified containers
    • Visually inspect each rail car to ensure its mechanical stability and lacks defects prior to transfer
    • Connect loading arms/hoses and transfers accordingly using gauges and/or strapping tables and disconnect at the appropriate time
    • Inspect equipment for leaks and complete required paperwork prior to releasing the rail car
    • Ability to effectively hook up oil cars and unhook them
    • Understand how to safely make repairs to oil leaks
    • Effectively close up oil car for proper shipping
    • Be able to locate all lock boxes and effectively lock out tracks
    • Safely and effectively hook up, and unhook, steam and condensate lines for heating up oil
  • Ensure and maintain work area cleanliness and optimal safety conditions
    • Remedy any spills or messes around the work area promptly
    • Follow and encourage safety conscious behavior as it relates to the handling of Carbon Black Oil (CBO)
    • Abide by and practice regularly safety conscious behavior in a railroad/rail car/large transport vehicle environment
    • Wear all protective clothing and equipment, including respirator and fresh air equipment that may be required to transfer the product in a manner that ensures maximum personal safety
  • Maintain fundamental understanding and impacts of the role relative to environmental requirements, precautions and prevention tactics and methods
  • Communicates with supervisor regarding any problems, issues or concerns as they occur
  • Additional duties as assigned by supervisor
Required Education and Experience
  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent
  • Must have an impeccable attention to detail
  • Effective observation and verbal communication skills in order to effectively ensure the reception of messages clearly
  • Must observe, follow and practice safety conscious behavior at all times
  • Must meet all qualifications of the Oil Car Operator including the completion of all required training
Preferred Education and Experience
  • 1-2 years in manufacturing operations experience
  • 1-2 years experience as an oil car operator, Operator or Plant Operator

This position involves safety-sensitive job duties.

It is the policy of Tokai Carbon CB Ltd to utilize its best faith efforts to promote equal employment opportunity in employment through a continuing program of practices designed to attain the realization of equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law.

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