Freight Car Repair Apprentice: 3-Year Training & Benefits

Union Pacific Railroad; Council Bluffs (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Culture & development

Educational assistance

401(k) plan

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Medical, dental and vision insurance

Wellness program

Job summary

Union Pacific Railroad is seeking an apprentice Freight Car Repairer in Council Bluffs, IA, as part of a comprehensive three‑year training program. You will inspect, repair, and rebuild freight cars, performing maintenance tasks and replacing defective components on rolling stock.

You will participate in inspections, on‑demand tasks, and repairs while adhering to FRA safety guidelines and company standards.

Qualifications

• Basic math skills required.
• Valid driver's license.
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Ability to read and understand instructions (rules, bulletins, etc.)
• Must complete English assessment prior to interview.

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough inspections to identify defects, wear, and damages in freight cars.
• Perform maintenance tasks including initial air brake tests and pre-trip inspections.
• Repair structural components and fabricate/assemble parts as needed.
• Remove and replace faulty components such as trucks, air brake systems, or couplings.
• Prepare surfaces for painting, welding, and fabrication.
• Operate shop tools and equipment safely (torches, power tools, welding equipment).
• Communicate technical information and work procedures clearly to coworkers and supervisors.

Skills

Basic math

Driver's license

Verbal communication

Written communication

Reading instructions

English assessment

Job description

Union Pacific Railroad is seeking an apprentice Freight Car Repairer in Council Bluffs, IA, as part of a comprehensive three‑year training program. You will inspect, repair, and rebuild freight cars, performing maintenance tasks and replacing defective components on rolling stock.

You will participate in inspections, on‑demand tasks, and repairs while adhering to FRA safety guidelines and company standards.