What are the responsibilities and job description for the VA Railcar Repair Mechanic - Heavy Equipment Operator position at First Response Rail Service?
Description:
Requirements:
The Railcar Repair Mechanic / Heavy Equipment Operator is responsible for inspecting, repairing, maintaining, and operating railroad freight cars and heavy equipment in support of rail operations. This position combines railcar mechanical repair with the safe operation of heavy equipment used in railcar maintenance, derailment response, track maintenance, loading, and material handling. The ideal candidate is safety-focused, mechanically skilled, and capable of working in demanding outdoor environments.
- Inspect, maintain, and repair freight railcars in accordance with FRA, AAR, and company standards.
- Perform repairs to railcar components including brake systems, couplers, draft gear, safety appliances, wheels, bearings, and air systems.
- Weld, cut, fabricate, and replace damaged structural components on railcars.
- Perform railcar inspections to identify defects and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.
- Operate heavy equipment including excavators, loaders, skid steers, forklifts, telehandlers, cranes, and other equipment used in rail operations.
- Conduct daily pre-operation inspections and routine maintenance on heavy equipment.
- Assist with derailment recovery, railcar rerailing, and emergency response operations when required.
- Perform preventive maintenance on shop equipment and company machinery.
- Troubleshoot and repair hydraulic, diesel, mechanical, and electrical systems on heavy equipment as needed.
- Complete work orders, inspection reports, and maintenance documentation accurately.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
- Follow all FRA, OSHA, AAR, company safety policies, and customer operating procedures.
- Work independently or as part of a field service crew at customer locations.
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Experience in railcar repair, welding, heavy equipment operation, or related mechanical field preferred.
- Knowledge of freight car mechanical systems and railroad safety practices.
- Experience operating heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
- Ability to read repair manuals, blueprints, mechanical drawings, and technical instructions.
- Welding certification or experience with MIG, Stick (SMAW), and oxy-fuel cutting preferred.
- Valid driver's license required; CDL preferred.
- Ability to obtain and maintain required railroad certifications and customer qualifications.
- Mechanical aptitude with strong troubleshooting skills.
Requirements:
- Railcar inspection and repair
- Freight car brake system repair
- Welding and metal fabrication
- Heavy equipment operation
- Hydraulic and diesel equipment maintenance
- Mechanical troubleshooting
- Safe work practices
- Time management and organizational skills
- Strong communication and teamwork
- Ability to work under minimal supervision
- Ability to lift up to 75 pounds.
- Ability to climb railcars, ladders, and heavy equipment.
- Ability to stand, walk, kneel, crouch, crawl, and work in confined spaces for extended periods.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
- Ability to work overtime, weekends, nights, holidays, and emergency call-outs as needed.
- Rail yards, customer industrial facilities, repair shops, and field service locations.
- Exposure to moving rail equipment, heavy machinery, loud noise, dust, grease, welding fumes, and varying weather conditions.
- Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hat, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, steel-toe boots, high-visibility clothing, and fall protection when required.