Diesel Mechanic I

Great Smokey Mountain Railroad, LLC; North Carolina; On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Diesel Locomotive Mechanic, where you will inspect and maintain diesel locomotives to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with a team dedicated to providing excellent passenger experiences. You will gain hands-on experience with electrical and hydraulic systems while performing essential maintenance and repairs. Enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and a generous PTO plan, while making a meaningful impact in the operations of a beloved railroad service.

Benefits

Medical/Rx Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401K with Company Match

Generous PTO Plan

Life/AD&D Insurance

Long/Short Term Disability Coverage

SHA and Pass Exchange Program

Qualifications

• Familiarity with EMD engines preferred; ability to read electrical schematics.
• Physical ability to stand for long hours and lift heavy objects.
• Trade skills such as welding or machining are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot diesel locomotives per regulations.
• Perform routine maintenance and repairs on locomotives.
• Collaborate with team members for positive guest experiences.

Skills

Electrical Systems Understanding

Hydraulic Systems Understanding

Welding Skills

Machining Skills

Effective Communication

Organizational Skills

Physical Ability to Lift 50 lbs

Education

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Trade Certification in Diesel Mechanics

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: BRYSON CITY, NC

Salary Range: $20.00 - $25.00 Hourly

Description

Division/Department: Operations

Job Title: Diesel Locomotive Mechanic

Reports To: Operations Manager

Type of position: Hourly

Employee Classification: Regular

Location: Varies depending on train schedule.

Compensation: $20-$25 per hour depending on job experience

Job Summary: Inspect, maintain, and troubleshoot diesel locomotives in accordance with Federal and state regulations, including 92-day and Annual inspections. Preference will be given to candidates with understanding of electrical and hydraulic systems and/or trade skills such as welding or machining. Company can provide some on-the-job training.

Benefits Offered: The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a comprehensive Medical/Rx, dental, and vision package with company-funded H.S.A. (for qualified employees), Life/AD&D Insurance, Long/Short Term Disability coverage, a 401K with company match, and a generous PTO plan. SHA and Pass Exchange program for complimentary admission to area attractions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Understand and follow all Federal, Company, and AAR regulations.
• Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and repairs on diesel locomotives, including railroad-specific components, working in a team environment.
• Assist in tracking, updating, and filing documents per FRA regulations.
• Complete FRA, OSHA, and Company documentation of work performed, including repair reports.
• Evaluate and recommend repair/replacement of equipment, parts, and components.
• Interpret instructions and specifications, reading blueprints, manuals, and electrical schematics.
• Assemble/disassemble parts and components of locomotives and equipment.
• Perform basic locomotive servicing and daily inspections.
• Identify FRA and AAR running defects.
• Coordinate and safely jack railroad rolling stock.
• Service and maintain locomotive brake shoes, lube oil, water & treatment, sand, etc.
• Troubleshoot train air brake system issues.
• Work with other departments to provide positive passenger/guest experiences.
• Maintain a positive attitude and collaborate with management and staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned by senior management.

Qualifications

Education, Skills, and Experience:

• Familiarity with EMD engines with Dash 2 and/or Dash 3 systems or other diesel electrical experience preferred.
• Ability to read and understand locomotive electrical schematics and diagnostics or willingness to learn.
• Effective communication skills in English.
• Physical ability to stand for up to 12 hours, lift 50 lbs, and navigate train steps/ladders.
• Good balance for working on moving trains and uneven surfaces.
• Organizational skills with ability to multitask and prioritize.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Pre-employment and random drug testing in compliance with company policy.
• Pass GCOR Rules Test and pre-employment physical evaluation.
• Valid Driver License.
• Trade skills such as welding or machining are a plus.

Work Environment:

• Work on and off trains across varied terrain and weather conditions, day and night.
• Work in mechanical shops and railyards; willingness to travel as needed.
• Variable schedule based on train operations and emergencies.
• Long hours may be required.