Estimator - Field Operations

Job Description

Job Description

The Field Operations Estimator prepares accurate cost estimates for mobile/on-site railcar repairs by gathering information at customer yards, interchange points, and other field locations, and applying AAR (Association of American Railroads) rules and job codes. The ideal candidate combines strong estimating fundamentals with hands-on field experience and knowledge of railcar repair standards — including AAR interchange rules, FRA regulations, and AAR M-1002/M-1003 specifications — to produce estimates and billing that are accurate, defensible, and compliant, without the benefit of a fixed shop setting. The goal is to provide detailed reports that support profitable, compliant business decisions and enhance the company's growth.

Responsibilities:

•     Travel to customer sites, railroad yards, interchange points, and other field locations to assess railcars in need of repair

•     Understand the project, car type, and scope of repair required, often based on limited on-site information

•     Determine key variables for cost estimates in the field, applying the correct AAR Job Codes and repair billing categories

•     Gather first-hand information on car condition, damage, and repair feasibility directly at the railcar's location

•     Conduct research on labor costs, materials, production times, and applicable AAR interchange rules for field repair versus shop repair

•     Interpret and apply FRA regulations and AAR M-1002 / M-1003 specifications when scoping and estimating field repairs

•     Obtain and review offers and quotes from subcontractors, mobile repair crews, parts suppliers, and vendors

•     Perform risk analysis, including compliance, quality, safety, and interchange-billing risk specific to field conditions

•     Create and submit estimate reports or bids — correctly coded and referenced to AAR standards — to plant managers, clients, railroads, or bidding competitions

•     Coordinate with mobile/field repair technicians and crews on scope, parts needs, and scheduling

•     Build and maintain relationships with key vendors (subcontractors, suppliers, parts distributors, engineers, etc.)

•     Provide consultation on field planning (schedules, manpower and crew needs, parts lead times, site access, etc.)

Requirements:

•     Working knowledge of AAR (Association of American Railroads) rules, including the Field Manual of Interchange Rules and Office Manual

•     Familiarity with FRA (Federal Railroad Administration) regulations applicable to freight car repair and safety, including field/on-track safety requirements

•     Knowledge of AAR M-1002 and M-1003 specifications and their application in repair estimating and quality compliance

•     Proficiency with AAR Job Codes and repair/damage billing coding used in estimating and interchange billing

•     Solid understanding of railcar components and systems (trucks, couplers, brake systems, draft gear, etc.) and related repair terminology

•     Willingness and ability to travel regularly to field sites, yards, and interchange points, including varying weather and site conditions

•     Familiarity with financial and project management principles

•     In-depth knowledge of research and data analysis methods and estimation formulas

•     Strong math and IT ability with an analytical mindset; comfortable estimating remotely without shop resources on hand

•     Proficient in relevant estimating/billing software, including mobile or tablet-based tools

•     Valid driver's license and reliable means of travel between field sites

Qualities:

•     Communication and negotiation abilities

•     Thoroughness and reliability, including when working independently in the field

•     Excellent organizational skills

•     Comfortable working outdoors and in rail yard environments

Experience and Education:

•     BSc/BA in engineering, construction science, or a relevant discipline preferred

•     Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) would be an asset but not required

•     3-5 years' experience as an estimator or similar position, preferably within mobile/field railcar repair, rail transportation, or heavy industrial/equipment field service

•     Demonstrated working knowledge of AAR rules, FRA regulations, and AAR job code/billing systems strongly preferred

Eagle Railcar Services is a leading provider of railcar repair and maintenance solutions, serving customers across a nationwide network of facilities and field operations. With a strong commitment to safety, quality, and customer service, our teams work every day to ensure railcars move safely and efficiently across the country. We take pride in developing our people, delivering high-quality work, and supporting the essential industries that keep America moving

Company Description

Eagle Railcar Services is a leading provider of railcar repair and maintenance solutions, serving customers across a nationwide network of facilities and field operations. With a strong commitment to safety, quality, and customer service, our teams work every day to ensure railcars move safely and efficiently across the country. We take pride in developing our people, delivering high-quality work, and supporting the essential industries that keep America moving