Demo

Carman

Metra
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 6/23/2026 CLOSED ON 6/29/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Carman position at Metra?

Job Description

Metra is one of the largest and most complex commuter rail systems in North America, serving Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties. The agency is linking communities in Northeastern Illinois by providing safe, reliable, and efficient commuter service.


Mechanical coordinates and oversees the repair, inspection, cleaning, rebuilding, replacing and maintenance of 1,180 pieces of rolling stock used in commuter service. The department’s goal is to provide safe, clean and reliable service while maintaining the fleet to the standards of the Federal Railroad Administration, Association of American Railroads, American Public Transit Association and the original equipment manufacturers.


The Carman works as a team to rebuild, repair, and maintain commuter cars and locomotives. The primary duties include inspect cars to identify problems, remove defective parts, and repair or replace as required in accordance with federal and department safety and quality standards. Removal and rebuild mechanical equipment and parts. Repair and paint the body and framing of cars and locomotives. Remove, overhaul, and repair or replace air brakes and test for proper operation. Works under both inside and outside environmental conditions under prevailing conditions of heat, cold, rain, and snow. Perform other duties as assigned.


This is a Union position. Starting pay rates may vary based on entry rates in the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).


Click here to learn more about our benefits!


Qualified veterans who meet the minimum requirements will receive outreach during the recruitment process in accordance with Federal and State laws, including the Illinois Veterans Preference Act. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or job offer. The most qualified candidate will be selected.


Metra is a railroad employer subject to the provisions of the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration.

Job Requirements

  • Must be a Journeyman Railroad Carman or possess a minimum of three years of experience performing Railroad Carman work.
  • Knowledge of the repair processes and tools of the job.
  • Knowledge of shop safety and personal protective equipment requirements.
  • Ability to operate heavy metal welding and fabricating machinery.
  • Ability to perform the physical requirements of the job.
  • Ability to read and understand repair manuals.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and/or sit, for extended periods of time.
  • Hearing/Visual acuity, far/near, depth perception, field of vision, color vision.
  • Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be available to work flexible hours in the early morning, late afternoon, evenings, or weekends.


Metra employees in an active review period under the current discipline policy or who have documented attendance or performance issues will not be considered and/or selected for this position.


Please note: Regardless of any state laws that legalize marijuana, Metra prohibits applicants and employees’ use or possession of marijuana (or marijuana paraphernalia), or having detectable amounts of marijuana in their bodies, including synthetic and/or non-synthetic substances such as THC for any reason for preemployment screening purposes, while on duty, subject to duty, on Metra property, or in Metra work equipment and vehicles.


Metra is committed to ensuring that our career website and recruiting process are accessible to all individuals. If you encounter difficulties or limitations in using or accessing our online application, or if you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, participate in interviews, complete any pre-employment testing, or engage in any other aspect of the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to RAC@Metrarr.com.


Metra is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. It is our policy to fill vacant positions with qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, gender identity, disability, or any protected categories, assuming an individual can perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Benefits:

Health Insurance, Vacation & Paid Time Off, Retirement Plan

Salary : $40 - $41

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