Mobile Railcar Repair Technician

Compass Rail Services LLC; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, Life and Vision

Vacation and Holiday Pay

401K on Day 1

Travel reimbursements

Job summary

Compass Rail Services LLC seeks a Carman Mobile Railcar Repair Technician to inspect, diagnose, and repair railcars at customer sites, rail yards, or remote locations. The role emphasizes strong mechanical skills, valve work, independence, and strict safety and FRA/AAR compliance.

The position offers $25.00–$35.00 per hour, full-time hours, overnight travel, and opportunities to work on tank cars and boxcars across the region.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of railcar repair, valve work, or related experience preferred.
• Familiarity with FRA and AAR regulations related to tank car valve inspections.
• Welding certification (FCAW, SMAW) is a plus.
• Valid driver’s license; CDL preferred or willing to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Perform on-site inspection, maintenance, and repair of freight railcars.
• Inspect, test, remove, install, and repair valves and fittings on tank cars.
• Perform valve seat resurfacing, lapping, and leak testing.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues; perform structural and running gear repairs.
• Ensure repairs comply with FRA, AAR, and company standards.
• Accurately complete inspection forms and regulatory paperwork.
• Operate welding/cutting equipment for repairs when required.
• Drive and operate a service truck with tools and materials.
• Maintain inventory of valve parts and tools.
• Communicate repair status to dispatchers, supervisors, and customers.

Skills

Railcar repair experience

Valve work familiarity

Reading schematics

Safety compliance

Independent worker

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Valve repair tools

Hydrostatic testing

Documentation procedures

Job description

Find your Path and Navigate your future at Compass Rail!

At Compass Rail, we are dedicated to providing top-tier solutions for railcar repair and transloading. With an experienced team and a commitment to excellence, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients in the rail transportation industry.

Position Summary:

The Carman Mobile Railcar Repair Technician is responsible for inspecting, diagnosing, and repairing railcars at customer sites, rail yards, or remote locations. This role requires strong mechanical skills-including specialized valve work-an ability to work independently, and a commitment to safety, quality, and compliance with federal rail regulations.

Compensation:

Starting at $25.00 an hour to $35.00 an hour based on experience

• Full Time - 40 hours per week, may need to work extended hours
• Overnight Travel will be required.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform on-site inspection, maintenance, and repair of freight railcars, including tank cars and boxcars.
• Inspect, test, remove, install, and repair various valves and fittings on tank cars (e.g., pressure relief valves, vacuum relief valves, bottom outlet valves, top fittings).
• Perform valve seat resurfacing, lapping, and leak testing using approved procedures and calibrated tools.
• Troubleshoot mechanical problems and perform structural and running gear repairs.
• Ensure all valve and car repairs comply with FRA, AAR, and company standards.
• Accurately complete documentation including inspection forms, valve repair records, and regulatory compliance paperwork.
• Operate welding and cutting equipment for structural and component repairs when required.
• Drive and operate a service truck equipped with tools, valve kits, and repair materials.
• Maintain proper inventory of valve parts, gaskets, seals, and specialty tools.
• Communicate effectively with dispatchers, supervisors, and customers regarding repair status and site conditions.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions and travel frequently within the assigned region.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of experience in railcar repair, mechanical valve work, or related field preferred.
• Familiarity with FRA and AAR regulations, particularly those related to tank car valve inspections and qualifications.
• Experience with valve repair tools, hydrostatic testing, and documentation procedures.
• Welding certification (FCAW, SMAW) is a plus.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record; CDL preferred or willingness to obtain.
• Ability to read and interpret valve schematics, repair manuals, and safety documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.

What We Offer:

• Health, Dental. Life and Vision Benefits
• Vacation and Holiday Pay
• 401K on Day 1
• Travel reimbursements and more!
• Job Type: Full-time