Freight Car Repairer - Linwood, NC 2026

About the role

This hands-on, field-based position prepares individuals for a career in freight car maintenance through structured classroom instruction and on-the-job training. Trainees learn to inspect, repair, and maintain railcars to ensure safe and efficient operations across our network.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, repair, and maintain freight cars in compliance with FRA and AAR standards.
• Ensure compliance with all railroad rules and regulations for safety and operations.
• Perform welding and cutting operations (SMAW and FCAW processes in 2F, 3F, and 4F positions).
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and car-moving equipment.
• Operate various vehicles and may be required to obtain a CDL for operation of Locomotive Service truck.
• Straighten, fabricate, and replace steel parts such as grab irons, ladders, and sill steps.
• Remove and replace defective components including wheels, couplers, brake equipment, air brake valves, yokes, and draft gears.
• Rerail cars and locomotives using rerailing equipment.
• Complete and enter information in computer systems regarding car components, destination, lading, repair records, bad orders, and car releases.
• Complete annual safety training and pass safety rules examinations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• 18 years of age or older.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and physical standards.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and perform heavy physical labor.
• Military roles that often transition well to this position (but not limited to): 2141, 91B, 91H and heavy equipment mechanics are encouraged to apply.

Skills and Abilities

• Mechanical aptitude.
• Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to understand oral and written communication and provide clear instructions.
• Physical and mental job requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, ability to stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, balance, climb, and walk long distances over uneven terrain, ability to meet FRA medical requirements.

Benefits

• Medical coverage begins the first day of the second month after hire.
• Health insurance (80/20 or 85/15 plan), $20,000 life insurance, and 401(k) eligibility from day one.
• Dental and vision coverage after one year of service.

Pay and Schedule

• Pay Progression: 1st 40 Working Days: $21.26 (50% of Full rate) Next 204 Working Days: $31.89 (75% of Full rate) Next 244 Working Days: $34.01 (80% of Full rate) After 2 Years/488 Working Days: $42.52 (100% of Full Rate)
• Compensation Data: Rate of Pay 1st 40 Working Days: $20.44 (50% of Full rate) Next 204 Working Days: $30.66 (75% of Full rate) Next 244 Working Days: $32.70 (80% of Full rate) After 2 Years/488 Working Days: $40.88 (100% of Full Rate)

Training

• Training Includes Both Classroom And Field Instruction:
• Classroom Training: Mechanical Safety Orientation and craft-specific training in welding and fabrication.
• Field Training: Hands-on experience in car repair shops and yards.
• Duration: Approximately 7 weeks (1 week safety orientation + 6 weeks craft training).
• Norfolk Southern provides lodging and reimburses travel per union agreement.

Job Requirements

• Work safely to prevent on the job accidents and injuries.
• Wear protective equipment such as hard hat, hearing protection, or safety-toe boots.
• Complete annual training and pass safety rules examinations.
• Must pass all required assessments.
• Must pass a background screening.
• This position is governed by a union agreement and membership is required.
• Must pass a post-offer medical examination, including a drug test.

Additional Information

• Physical Requirements: Heavy work, lifting to 50 pounds occasionally, stow/bend/kneel/crouch/crawl/balance/climb, walk long distances over uneven terrain, demonstrate auditory and visual acuity/tracking/inspection, exposure to equipment that intensifies the heat factor on an occasional basis.
• Work Conditions: Full time, shift work consists of: Irregular hours, including nights, weekend, holidays and occasional overtime. Travel required for training.