Rail Car Mechanic (Carman)

CPKC; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 38,572 - 55,104; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible benefits package

Pension/retirement plan

Employee share purchase plan

Fitness subsidy

Part‑time studies program

Job summary

CPKC is seeking a Rail Car Mechanic to join a fast‑paced, high‑production team focused on preventive and corrective maintenance of freight cars. A four‑week welding course is provided to support long‑term success in the role, with opportunities for hands‑on training and career development.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, able to travel occasionally, and committed to safety in all weather conditions. Shift flexibility including nights and weekends is required.

Qualifications

• Must be mechanically inclined with a safety‑first mindset.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience around heavy equipment preferred.
• Welding experience is an asset and helpful for rail car repairs.

Responsibilities

• Repair, maintain and inspect freight car equipment safely and efficiently.
• Perform preventive maintenance on trucks, under‑frame, structure, safety appliances, braking and draft systems.
• Weld, torch cut and use hand tools to repair rail cars in all positions and areas.
• Handle rush repairs, road work, and supplementary service operations as needed.

Skills

Mechanically inclined

Safety oriented

Welding experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Hand tools

Welding equipment

Job description

Posting Start Date: 7/27/26

Join CPKC, North America’s first transnational railroad connecting U.S. Canada and Mexico, where your career drives progress and safety is paramount. We connect communities, fuel economic growth, and provide meaningful work in a culture that values diversity, accountability, and pride. With opportunities for training, development, and advancement, you’re not just building a career—you’re part of something bigger. Together, we move goods, connect people, and create lasting change. Your future starts here.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

As a Rail Car Mechanic, you will be part of a skilled team working in a fast‑paced, high‑production environment, performing both preventive and corrective maintenance on rail cars in accordance with regulatory standards. You will receive hands‑on training, including a four‑week welding course specifically designed for the railroad industry, to support your long‑term success and development in the role. The ideal candidate for this position must be mechanically inclined, willing to travel occassionally and possess a safety driven mindset.

POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Repair, maintain and inspect freight car equipment in a safe and efficient manner


• Perform all preventative maintenance work and repairs on trucks, under‑frame, structure, safety appliances, braking systems, draft systems and any associated tests


• Perform all work associated with rush repairs, road work and supplementary service operation of equipment


• Weld, torch cutting and using all hand power tools to make repairs while working all around, under, between, on top and inside of rail cars

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or general equivalency


• Minimum 2 years’ experience working on or around heavy equipment


• Valid Class B Commerical driver's license


• Welding experience is an asset


• Available to work all types of shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays in all weather conditions


• Ability to pass the required written examinations, read and understand safety instructions, rules, regulations and other written or printed material in English


• Dedication to safety and ability to complete work within guidelines/rules


• Strong communication skills (provide clear and concise instructions/directions)

WHAT CPKC HAS TO OFFER:

• Flexible and competitive benefits package


• Competitive company pension and/or retirement plans


• Employee share purchase plan


• Annual fitness subsidy


• Part‑time studies program

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Medical and Drug Testing

This is a safety sensitive position and a successful pre‑employment medical assessment including physical, vision, hearing, and a negative company or regulated drug test is required. Post hire qualification drug testing may also be required.

Background Investigation:

• Criminal history check


• Education verification


• Driver’s license verification and driving history


• Social Security Number verification


• Department of Transportation Background Check 40.25 Form

CULTURE OF INCLUSION:

For our U.S. applicants, CPKC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, inclusive of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For Canadian applicants CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to the principles of employment equity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply including: women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), members of the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities. Accommodations for the job application process can be provide, as appropriate, upon request. All applicant information will be managed in accordance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).