Regional Diesel Locomotive Technician

Patriot Rail Company; Elkhart (IN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Patriot Rail Company is seeking a skilled locomotive mechanic to inspect, service and repair diesel locomotives in a safety‑driven environment. You will diagnose engine issues, perform routine maintenance per FRA and company rules, and work with hand tools and precision instruments.

Travel to support other routes in the region may be required; a valid license (CDL preferred) and strong safety practices are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs for extended durations.
• Ability to read gauges, precision instruments, schematics and maintenance manuals 100% of the time.
• Strong communication with co-workers and supervisors 100% of the time.
• Reach with arms to perform inspection, maintenance and repair duties 100% of the time.
• Bend, stoop, twist, kneel, squat 100% of the time.
• Use hands to grasp, handle, fingers and feel 100% of the time.
• Climb and balance to mount locomotive 30% of the time.
• Walk on level/unlevel ground 100% of the time; crawl in tight spaces.
• Exert up to 125 pounds of force occasionally; valid driver's license; CDL preferred.

Responsibilities

• Inspects and maintains diesel locomotives per FRA and company regulations.
• Diagnoses engine malfunctions and repairs with hand tools and measuring instruments.
• Assembles, repairs and fabricates metal parts; may qualify as shop locomotive engineer per FRA standards.
• Performs daily locomotive inspections including air brake testing per FRA regulations.
• Performs periodic service: oil changes, turbo inspection, fueling, filters, greasing, etc.
• Replaces locomotive components including wheels, traction motors, springs, and gear assemblies.
• Diagnoses malfunctions to determine repairs or replacements.
• Travel to support other roads in the region as required.

Skills

Lift heavy objects

Read gauges & instruments

Communication

Manual dexterity

Climb & balance

Endurance & mobility

Valid license (CDL preferred)

Safety awareness

Teamwork

Job description

Patriot Rail Company is seeking a skilled locomotive mechanic to inspect, service and repair diesel locomotives in a safety‑driven environment. You will diagnose engine issues, perform routine maintenance per FRA and company rules, and work with hand tools and precision instruments.

Travel to support other routes in the region may be required; a valid license (CDL preferred) and strong safety practices are essential for this role.