Railcar Repair Technician

Compass Rail Services LLC; Illinois; On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Dental benefits

Life insurance

Vision benefits

401K on Day 1

Job summary

Compass Rail Services LLC in Illinois is seeking a Railcar Repair Technician to inspect and perform minor repairs on freight railcars while in service or during short dwell times. The role emphasizes safe procedures and FRA/AAR compliance.

You will document inspections, operate standard tools, and coordinate with yardmasters and railroad personnel. A high school diploma or GED is required, with prior railcar repair or inspection experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Must have a high school diploma or GED.
• Prior railcar repair or inspection experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of FRA and AAR inspection/repair requirements.
• Ability to safely operate hand and power tools.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, repair manuals, and rules.

Responsibilities

• Perform visual and manual inspections of freight railcars to detect defects or wear.
• Execute minor running repairs (brake shoes, fittings, safety appliances).
• Document defects and determine if cars can remain in service or must be bad ordered.
• Complete inspection reports and repair records.
• Operate tools and equipment (impact wrenches, jacks, grinders, torches).
• Coordinate with yardmasters and railroad personnel for car movements and repair access.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and ensure tool readiness.
• Follow all safety rules including PPE and Lockout/Tagout.

Skills

Attention to detail

Clear communication

Independent/ teamwork

Reading work orders

Regulatory compliance

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Impact wrenches

Hydraulic jacks

Grinders

Torches

Job description

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 is responsible for performing inspections and making minor repairs to freight railcars while they are in service or on short dwell time. This includes identifying defects, conducting safe and efficient repairs, and ensuring compliance with Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), Association of American Railroads (AAR), and company standards.

Pay Range:

Full Time - $22.00 to $30.00 an hour

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform visual and manual inspections of freight railcars to detect mechanical defects, damage, or wear.
• Execute minor running repairs such as replacing brake shoes, adjusting rigging, repairing safety appliances, and replacing gaskets or fittings.
• Identify and document car defects according to FRA and AAR rules, and determine whether railcars can safely remain in service or must be bad ordered.
• Complete all required documentation, including inspection reports, repair records, and defect tags.
• Operate tools and equipment including impact wrenches, hydraulic jacks, grinders, and torches.
• Communicate with yardmasters, dispatchers, and other railroad personnel to coordinate car movements and repair access.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area and ensure all tools and equipment are in proper working condition.
• Follow all company safety rules, procedures, and policies, including use of PPE and Lockout/Tagout when necessary.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior experience in mechanical railcar repair or inspection preferred.
• Basic knowledge of FRA and AAR inspection and repair requirements.
• Ability to safely operate hand and power tools.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, repair manuals, and regulatory standards.
• Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Must be able to pass all required safety and regulatory training.

Why Join Us?

• Health, Dental, Life, and Vision Benefits
• Vacation and Holiday Pay
• 401K on Day 1
• Travel reimbursements and more!