Rail Car Repairer

Your Fit

Income

$83K

Preparation

Some

Growth

3.6%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Rail Car Repairer?

Rail Car Repairers specialize in the maintenance and repair of railroad cars, ensuring they are safe and efficient for transport. They work on various types of railcars, including freight cars, passenger cars, and subway cars, addressing both structural and mechanical issues.

Sample job titles:

Rail Car Mechanic, Rail Car Repairer, Rail Car Repairman, Rail Car Welder

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Rail Car Repairer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Rail Car Repairer earn

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2024 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Rail Car Repairer.

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$42K per year	$69K per year	$83K per year	$89K per year	$91K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $18K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Rail Car Repairer do?

Work environment

These repairers typically work in rail yards, repair shops, or at rail stations. The environment can be noisy and may require working outdoors in various weather conditions. Repairers often work with heavy equipment and may be exposed to hazardous materials, making safety practices crucial.

Quick task list

Inspects railcars for damage or wear.
Repairs or replaces defective parts such as wheels, brakes, or couplings.
Performs routine maintenance and safety checks.
Welds and fabricates parts as needed.
Documents repairs and maintenance work.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Freight Car Repair: Specializing in the repair and maintenance of freight cars used for cargo transport.
Passenger Car Maintenance: Focusing on passenger cars, ensuring comfort and safety features meet standards.
Subway and Transit Car Repair: Working on urban transit systems, including subway and light rail vehicles.
Welding and Fabrication: Specializing in metalwork necessary for railcar repair and customization.

Description

Rail Car Repairers are essential in maintaining the functionality and safety of rail transportation. Their work requires a strong understanding of mechanical systems and structural integrity in railcars. They need to be proficient in various skills, including welding, electrical repair, and mechanical troubleshooting. The role demands attention to detail and adherence to safety standards, as the railcars they maintain are critical for both cargo and passenger transport.

Their daily responsibilities may vary greatly, from routine maintenance to emergency repairs. Repairers must be able to read and interpret blueprints and technical manuals, and they often use diagnostic equipment to identify issues. Keeping up-to-date with technological advancements in the rail industry is also important, as new designs and systems are continually introduced.

The work can be physically demanding, often requiring lifting, bending, and working in confined spaces. Repairers may work irregular hours, including nights and weekends, especially when urgent repairs are needed to keep rail services running smoothly.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the safety and efficiency of rail transportation.
The variety and challenge of working on different types of railcars.
The satisfaction of troubleshooting and resolving complex mechanical issues.

You might make a good Rail Car Repairer if you are...

Fascinated by trains and mechanical systems.
Skilled in mechanics and enjoy hands-on work.
Attentive to detail and committed to safety.
Able to work both independently and as part of a team.
Interested in learning and adapting to new railcar technologies.

Pros:

Job stability in a vital transportation sector.
Diverse work tasks.
Opportunities for skill development.

Cons:

Physically demanding work.
Potential exposure to noise, grease, and hazardous materials.
May require working in adverse weather conditions.

How to become a Rail Car Repairer

Typical education

Most Rail Car Repairers have a high school diploma or equivalent. Technical knowledge is primarily gained through on-the-job training, apprenticeships, or vocational training programs specializing in railroad technology. Some employers may require specific certifications depending on the complexity of the work.

High school preparation

Courses:

Automotive or Mechanical Technology: Introduction to basic principles of vehicle mechanics, which are applicable to rail car systems.
Welding or Metalwork: Skills in metal fabrication and welding, essential for rail car repair and maintenance.
Physics and Mathematics: Understanding mechanical principles and performing technical calculations for diagnostics and repairs.
Technical Education or Shop Classes: Hands-on experience with tools, machinery, and understanding technical schematics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Model Railroad Club: Gaining a basic understanding of rail systems, albeit on a smaller scale.
Automotive or Mechanics Club: Practical experience with mechanical systems and tools.
Part-time Jobs or Internships in Mechanical Workshops: Exposure to practical aspects of vehicle or machinery maintenance and repair.
Volunteer Work in Community Projects Involving Machinery: Experience with the types of mechanical and technical skills needed in rail car repair.

Preparation after high school

Degrees and Courses: - Vocational Training or Certificate Program: Specialized programs in rail car maintenance, welding, or diesel mechanics. Courses should include rail car systems, brake systems, and safety protocols. - Associate's Degree in Diesel Technology or Heavy Equipment Mechanics: A broader approach to understanding the mechanics of large vehicles and equipment.

Experiences:

Apprenticeships with Railroad Companies: Hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced rail car repairers.
On-the-Job Training: Many rail companies provide specific training programs for their equipment and repair techniques.
Certifications: Certifications in welding, hydraulics, or other relevant areas can enhance job prospects and skills.

More resources

Association of American Railroads (AAR) - Provides standards, news, and resources related to the railroad industry, including rail car maintenance and repair.
Occupational Information Network (O*NET Online) - A tool for career exploration and job analysis, offering detailed information about the role of Rail Car Repairers.
Railway Supply Institute (RSI) - Offers resources, advocacy, and information for suppliers and repairers in the rail industry.
National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRCMA) - Provides educational resources and networking opportunities for professionals in railroad construction and maintenance.
Transportation Technology Center, Inc. (TTCI) - A research and testing organization that offers insights and technological developments in railway maintenance and repair.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.