Railcar Repair Technician

Compass Rail Services LLC; Wilmington (NC); On-site; USD 30,000 - 47,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Vacation pay

401K

Bonus program

Travel reimbursements

Job summary

Compass Rail is seeking a Railcar Repair Technician to inspect freight railcars and perform minor repairs while in service or during short dwell times, ensuring compliance with FRA and AAR standards.

You will document defects, operate tools, and coordinate railcar movements with yard staff, while maintaining safety and quality. Training of up to three weeks may occur in Hamlet, North Carolina.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Prior mechanical railcar repair or inspection experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of FRA and AAR inspection and repair requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret work orders, repair manuals, and regulatory standards.
• Must be able to pass all required safety and regulatory training.

Responsibilities

• Inspect freight railcars for defects or wear.
• Perform minor running repairs (brake shoes, fittings).
• Document defects per FRA and AAR rules.
• Complete inspection and repair documentation.
• Operate impact wrenches, jacks, grinders, and torches.
• Coordinate car movements with yardmasters and dispatchers.
• Maintain a clean, organized work area and proper tool condition.
• Possess a valid driver’s license; CDL preferred or pursued.
• Follow safety rules, PPE usage, and Lockout/Tagout procedures.

Education

High school diploma or GED

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 - $21.58 to $34.00 an hour

May be required to complete up to three weeks of offsite training in Hamlet, North Carolina, to ensure proficiency in railcar repair procedures and company standards.

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.


• Valid driver's license and clean driving record; CDL preferred or willingness to obtain, if applicable.


• 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, and Vision Benefits


• Vacation and Holiday Pay


• 401K after first year


• Bonus Program based on Efficiencies, Quality, Safety, and Customer Satisfaction


• Travel reimbursements and more!