Freight Car Repair Trainee: Welding & Field Training

Norfolk Southern Corp.; Birmingham (AL); Hybrid; USD 29,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage start

401(k) eligibility

Dental and vision after 1 year

Life insurance

Job summary

Norfolk Southern Corp. is hiring a Freight Car Repairer Trainee to learn inspection, repair, and maintenance of freight cars across our network. This is a seniority-based union role with training in welding and fabrication, and field-based work requiring travel.

You will operate heavy equipment, work across shifts including nights and weekends, and complete safety training while advancing through a structured program.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• One or more years welding and fabrication experience preferred.
• Veterans and transitioning service members encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, repair, and maintain freight cars per FRA and AAR standards.
• Ensure compliance with railroad safety and operations rules.
• Perform welding and cutting (SMAW and FCAW) in 2F/3F/4F positions.
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and car-moving equipment.
• May need to obtain a CDL for Locomotive Service truck operation.
• Fabricate and replace steel parts such as grab irons and ladders.
• Replace defective components including wheels, couplers, brake equipment, and valves.
• Rerail cars and locomotives using rerailing equipment.
• Record repair data in computer systems and comply with procedures.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Clear communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

One or more years welding/fabrication experience

Carman apprenticeship

Tools

Welding equipment

Job description

Norfolk Southern Corp. is hiring a Freight Car Repairer Trainee to learn inspection, repair, and maintenance of freight cars across our network. This is a seniority-based union role with training in welding and fabrication, and field-based work requiring travel.

You will operate heavy equipment, work across shifts including nights and weekends, and complete safety training while advancing through a structured program.