Rail Car Repairers
Diagnose, adjust, repair, or overhaul railroad rolling stock, mine cars, or mass transit rail cars.
SOC: 49-3043.00
Common Job Titles
Rail Car MechanicRail Car RepairerRail Car RepairmanRail Car Welder
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeAnalyze malfunctions in railroad rolling stock, mine cars, and mass transit rail car systems using diagnostic equipment and technical specifications to determine root causes.Proficient
- Hands-onPerform mechanical repairs and overhauls on rail car braking systems, wheels, and undercarriage components using precision hand tools, welding equipment, and hydraulic presses in rail yard environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate rail car structural integrity and safety compliance through systematic inspection following federal transportation regulations and industry standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mechanical engineering principles and design specifications when troubleshooting complex rail car system failures and determining appropriate repair methods.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess bearing, wheel, and axle wear patterns using precision measuring instruments to determine serviceability and prevent catastrophic failures.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate specialized rail maintenance equipment including wheel lathes, bearing presses, and automated car movers to disassemble, repair, and reassemble rolling stock components efficiently.Developing
- Hands-onExecute arc welding and cutting torch operations to fabricate, repair, and modify rail car structural and mechanical components following safety protocols.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in collaborative problem-solving with maintenance team members and supervisors when addressing time-sensitive rail car repair priorities and resource allocation.Developing
- Hands-onHandle heavy rail car components weighing up to several tons using mobile cranes, hoists, and lifting systems while maintaining workplace safety standards.Developing
- MindsetEngage in continuous learning of emerging rail car technologies and repair methodologies through technical training programs and on-the-job mentorship to maintain occupational proficiency.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Rail Car Repairers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
18,300
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $45,670 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $92,000 |
| Workers on average earn | $67,610 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.5/5
- Production and Processing3.4/5
- Design3.3/5
- Administration and Management3.2/5
- Building and Construction3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe AcrobatMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordMozilla Firefox
Technology Skills
Disassembler softwareMicrosoft Internet ExplorerRailTech Software Solutions Rail 21 Management SystemRailTech Software Systems Mars for the 21st CenturyWheelShop Automation.com Wheel Shop Management Suite
Tools & Equipment
Adjustable hand wrenchesAligning pry barsArc weldersAutomated car moversAutomatic air brake testersBall peen hammersBearing dismounting pressesBearing presses