Railcar Prepper

Railcar Preparation Technician

Road & Rail Services is hiring a dependable Railcar Preparation Technician for our Kansas City operation. This hands-on position is responsible for inspecting, cleaning, and preparing railcars before they return to service or are used to transport vehicles and other freight.

You will work outdoors around rail equipment and use backpack blowers, scrapers, hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment. The position is a good fit for someone who enjoys physical work, knows how to perform basic stick welding, and takes pride in completing each assignment safely and correctly.

Previous railcar experience is helpful but not required. Candidates with experience in welding, construction, metal fabrication, manufacturing, industrial maintenance, automotive repair, or other mechanical occupations are encouraged to apply.

Essential Responsibilities

• Inspect railcars for visible damage, wear, fatigue, debris, and potential safety concerns.
• Determine whether identified repairs can be completed by Road & Rail Services.
• Clean railcar interiors using backpack blowers, scrapers, and other approved equipment.
• Remove dirt, debris, and contaminants that could interfere with safe transportation.
• Open, close, and secure railcar end doors.
• Perform basic stick welding and authorized minor repairs.
• Use hand and power tools safely and properly.
• Inspect tools and equipment before use and report any defects.
• Maintain responsibility for assigned tools, equipment, and safety gear.
• Keep work areas clean, organized, and free of avoidable hazards.
• Communicate damage, quality concerns, and repair needs to supervision.
• Complete required inspection and repair documentation.
• Follow all company, customer, and applicable industry safety procedures.
• Wear required personal protective equipment while working.
• Participate in safety meetings, training, and other assigned activities.
• Assist team members with additional railcar preparation duties as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Previous stick welding experience is required.
• Experience safely operating basic hand and power tools.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal work instructions.
• Ability to work outdoors in changing weather conditions.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, climb, lift, and perform physical work throughout the shift.
• Willingness to work in a fast-paced industrial and railroad environment.
• Reliable attendance and the ability to report to work as scheduled.
• Strong attention to detail and a safety-first approach.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Prior experience in railcar service, welding, fabrication, construction, manufacturing, industrial maintenance, or general labor is preferred.

Benefits and Employee Programs

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching
• Paid holidays and vacation
• Annual steel-toe boot allowance
• Company-provided personal protective equipment
• Weekly safety incentive opportunities
• Hands-on training
• Career advancement opportunities
• Veteran-friendly workplace
• Promote-from-within company culture

About Road & Rail Services

Since 1987, Road & Rail Services has provided specialized rail and industrial services throughout North America. Our teams support terminal operations, railcar preparation, vehicle handling, and field maintenance for railroads, shippers, and rail-equipment owners.

If you have stick welding experience and are ready to build your skills in the railroad industry, apply today to join Road & Rail Services in Kansas City.