Railcar Maintenance Technician/Electrician – Salt Lake City, UT

About the role

The Railcar Maintenance Technician will primarily focus on diagnosing and repairing railcar electrical components, including low-voltage systems, wiring, batteries, lighting, communication systems, sensors, and auxiliary electrical equipment. This position works closely with mechanical maintenance personnel to support overall fleet reliability and service readiness.

Responsibilities

• Inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair electrical systems and components on railcars in accordance with FRA regulations, safety requirements, and company procedures.
• Diagnose electrical faults using multimeters, diagnostic software, schematics, wiring diagrams, and other testing equipment.
• Inspect, test, and maintain low-voltage electrical systems, including lighting, battery systems, charging systems, wiring harnesses, relays, switches, sensors, and auxiliary electrical equipment.
• Perform corrective maintenance and replace defective electrical components to restore equipment functionality.
• Assist with preventive maintenance programs focused on electrical system reliability and performance.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, technical drawings, wiring diagrams, and maintenance manuals.
• Support troubleshooting of electromechanical systems and interfaces between electrical and mechanical equipment.
• Assist with inspection and maintenance of railcar HVAC controls, door systems, passenger information systems, and other onboard electrical equipment.
• Utilize electrical testing instruments and specialized tools to identify root causes and perform repairs.
• Complete required maintenance documentation, inspection reports, and repair records in accordance with FRA and company requirements.
• Follow all safety procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO), electrical safety practices, and environmental guidelines.
• Support senior electricians and technicians during major overhauls, modifications, and fleet improvement projects.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Report safety hazards, equipment deficiencies, and maintenance concerns to supervision.
• Perform inspections in accordance with applicable Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, including: 49 CFR Part 229 – Railroad Locomotive Safety Standards, 49 CFR Part 238 – Passenger Equipment Safety Standards.
• Identify and report electrical defects or safety-related conditions that may impact railcar operation.
• Ensure all repairs and inspections meet regulatory requirements before equipment is returned to service.
• Maintain accurate inspection, testing, and maintenance records in compliance with FRA standards.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Electrical trade school, vocational training, apprenticeship, or equivalent electrical maintenance experience.
• Knowledge of electrical theory, electrical safety practices, and troubleshooting techniques.
• Experience using electrical testing equipment such as multimeters, continuity testers, and voltage meters.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, and electrical diagnostic equipment.
• Ability to work in outdoor rail yard environments and varying weather conditions.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Ability to pass required railroad safety training and certifications.
• Fluent in English, both verbal and written.

Preferred Qualifications

• Journeyman Electrician license, Electrical Apprentice experience, or equivalent industrial electrical experience.
• Experience working in transportation, manufacturing, heavy industrial, rail, transit, or maintenance environments.
• Experience troubleshooting low-voltage DC systems, battery systems, communications equipment, and auxiliary electrical systems.
• Familiarity with electromechanical equipment and control systems.
• Knowledge of HVAC electrical controls, door systems, passenger systems, or vehicle electrical systems.
• Experience with rail equipment, rolling stock, heavy machinery, or industrial maintenance.
• Understanding of pneumatic and brake system interfaces with electrical controls.