Freight Car Repairer Trainee — Welding & Field Training

Norfolk Southern; Conway (PA); On-site; USD 42,500 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k)

Dental & vision

Lodging provided during training

Travel reimbursement

Job summary

Norfolk Southern invites applicants to join as a Freight Car Repairer Trainee. This hands‑on, field‑based program combines classroom instruction with on‑the‑job training to inspect, repair, and maintain railcars across the network.

The role is seniority‑based and union; candidates must be ready for night/weekend shifts, travel for training, and pass background and medical checks. Training includes safety orientation and welding fabrication, with lodging provided.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and physical standards.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform heavy physical labor.
• Must pass background screening and post-offer medical examinations, including drug tests.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, repair, and maintain freight cars in compliance with FRA and AAR standards.
• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety and operations.
• Perform welding and cutting operations (SMAW and FCAW processes in 2F, 3F, and 4F positions).
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and car‑moving equipment.
• Operate various vehicles and may be required to obtain a CDL for operation of Locomotive Service truck.
• Straighten, fabricate, and replace steel parts such as grab irons, ladders, and sill steps.
• Remove and replace defective components including wheels, couplers, brake equipment, air brake valves, yokes, and draft gears.
• Rerail cars and locomotives using rerailing equipment.
• Complete and enter information in computer systems regarding car components, destination, lading, repair records, bad orders, and car releases.
• Work safely to prevent accidents and injuries and wear required protective equipment (hard hat, hearing protection, safety‑toe boots).
• Complete annual safety training and pass safety rules examinations.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SMAW welding

FCAW welding

Forklift operation

CDL (potential)

Job description

Norfolk Southern invites applicants to join as a Freight Car Repairer Trainee. This hands‑on, field‑based program combines classroom instruction with on‑the‑job training to inspect, repair, and maintain railcars across the network.

The role is seniority‑based and union; candidates must be ready for night/weekend shifts, travel for training, and pass background and medical checks. Training includes safety orientation and welding fabrication, with lodging provided.