Mobile Railcar Repair Technician Lead

Compass Rail Services LLC; West Wheatfield Township (PA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Rail Services LLC is seeking a Railcar Repair Technician Lead to inspect, diagnose, and repair freight railcars at customer sites and yards. The role emphasizes valve work, safety, and adherence to FRA/AAR standards.

The position requires 2+ years in railcar repair or valve work, with the flexibility to travel within a 2-hour radius and to work extended hours when needed. Compensation starts at $28.00–$35.00 per hour, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 2+ years of railcar repair or valve work experience preferred.
• Familiarity with FRA and AAR regulations related to tank car valve inspections.
• Experience with valve repair tools and hydrostatic testing.
• Welding certification (FCAW, SMAW) is a plus.
• CDL preferred or willingness to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, maintain, and repair freight railcars at customer sites, rail yards, or remote locations.
• Inspect and repair valves and fittings on tank cars (pressure relief, vacuum relief, bottom outlets, top fittings).
• Perform valve seat resurfacing, lapping, and leak testing with approved procedures.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues and perform structural/running gear repairs.
• Ensure compliance with FRA, AAR, and company standards; complete documentation.
• Operate welding and cutting equipment for repairs when required.
• Drive and operate a service truck with tools and materials.
• Maintain inventory of valve parts, gaskets, seals, and specialty tools.
• Communicate repair status with dispatchers, supervisors, and customers.
• Work outdoors and travel within the assigned region.

Skills

Railcar repair

Valve work

Mechanical skills

Safety compliance

Documentation

Welding

CDL

Education

HS diploma / GED

Tools

Valve repair tools

Hydrostatic testing

Calibrated tools

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 Railcar Repair Technician Lead 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 $28.00 an hour to $35.00 an hour based on experience

• Full Time - 40 hours per week, may need to work extended hours
• Working at various locations within 2-hour radius of location

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.