What are the responsibilities and job description for the Railcar Repair position at Red River Valley & Western Railroad Company?
Job Description Summary / Objective
The Carman is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, and repairing freight cars to ensure safety and compliance with RRVW, AAR, and FRA standards. The position involves working with various tools and equipment, conducting inspections, performing repairs, and ensuring all maintenance tasks are completed efficiently and safely.
Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function.
Perform inspections, maintenance, and repairs on freight cars, including flat cars and tank cars, in accordance with RRVW, AAR, and FRA standards.
Inspect rolling stock for defects, signs of wear, or non-compliance with industry standards; perform pre-trip inspections (air brakes, fuel checks).
Operate shop equipment such as acetylene torches, power tools (drills, saws, grinders), and welding equipment.
Conduct routine and on-demand maintenance, including cleaning surfaces, performing air brake tests, and preparing equipment for operations.
Safely operate forklifts, scissor lifts, and other heavy equipment.
Coordinate the movement of bad-order cars, assist with derailments, and manage clean-up operations.
Perform all preventative maintenance and repairs on freight car systems including braking systems, safety appliances, and draft systems.
Remove and replace defective components such as trucks, coupler assemblies, air brake systems, and piping; perform welding, cutting, grinding, and soldering to replace or repair parts.
Fabricate and install metal components on rolling stock, assembling car parts using riveting, bolting, welding, and other techniques.
Maintain a clean and safe work environment in the shop and yard.
Handle emergency situations, including using fire extinguishers and administering first aid when needed.
Complete other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Supervisory Responsibility
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Normal working hours are (4) – 10 hour days Monday through Friday. The position requires mandatory good attendance.
Weekend, night, and holiday are possible, but typically voluntary.
Travel Requirements
Travel is not required for this position. Occasional travel with the mobile repair unit is an opportunity, with the possibility of an overnight stay.
Required Education and Experience
Must be 18 years or older.
High school diploma or equivalent (GED).
A safe work record is required.
Valid driver’s license and insurability to drive company vehicles.
Must pass required safety examinations and understand safety instructions.
Experience and/or training in using heavy power tools, welding equipment, and shop equipment is required; welding certification is preferred.
Knowledge of AAR and FRA regulations for the inspection, testing, repair, and re-billing of freight cars is preferred.
Must be able to work with minimal supervision.
Ability to work weekends and shift work is required.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screen and physical examination.
General computer skills are preferred.
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects up to 50 lbs., with frequent lifting of railcar parts such as knuckles and other components.
Good coordination, balance, and agility to climb on and off equipment, traverse railcar walkways, and maintain balance on uneven terrain or track ballast.
Perform work activities that involve bending, stretching, twisting, reaching, and crawling, as well as climbing stairs, ladders, or scaffolding.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
Must be able to work from various positions, including kneeling, bending, and working from ladders or uneven ground.
Strong mechanical aptitude, including understanding of metals, fabricating metal parts, and using measuring devices.
Environmental Requirements
Work primarily in an outdoor environment with exposure to varying weather conditions and loud noise.
Work in close proximity to moving equipment and heavy machinery.
Cognitive Requirements
Ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
Problem-solving skills, particularly in mechanical and welding tasks.
Must work well with others and have a team-oriented attitude.
AAP/EEO Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.