Railcar Maintenance Technician (Trainee)

Norfolk Southern Corp.; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 29,000 - 59,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage starts day 60 after-h

Health insurance

Life insurance

401(k) eligibility

Dental and vision after one year

Job summary

Norfolk Southern Corp. invites you to explore the Freight Car Repairer Trainee role, a hands-on, field-based program to learn inspection, repair, and maintenance of railcars through classroom and on-the-job training.

You will train in welding and fabrication, operate yard equipment, and gain experience across FRA and AAR standards while supporting safe, reliable operations.

This is a seniority-based union position; readiness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and travel for training is required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 18+ years of age required.
• Valid driver’s license required.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and medical examinations.
• Background screening and post-offer medical examinations required.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, repair, and maintain freight cars in compliance with FRA and AAR standards.
• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and safety procedures.
• Perform welding and cutting operations (SMAW and FCAW) in 2F, 3F, and 4F positions.
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and car-moving equipment.
• Possibly obtain CDL for operating Locomotive Service truck.
• Straighten, fabricate, and replace steel parts (grab irons, ladders, sill steps).
• Remove and replace defective components including wheels, couplers, brakes, air brake valves, yokes, and draft gears.
• Rerail cars and locomotives using special equipment.
• Enter repair data into computer systems.
• Work safely and wear protective equipment; complete safety training and exams.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Problem-solving

Written and verbal communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

18 years of age or older

Valid driver’s license

Pre-employment drug and alcohol screening

Background screening and post-offer medical examinations

Tools

Welding equipment

Job description

Norfolk Southern Corp. invites you to explore the Freight Car Repairer Trainee role, a hands-on, field-based program to learn inspection, repair, and maintenance of railcars through classroom and on-the-job training.

You will train in welding and fabrication, operate yard equipment, and gain experience across FRA and AAR standards while supporting safe, reliable operations.

This is a seniority-based union position; readiness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and travel for training is required.