Locomotive Mechanic

Job Description

Job Description

Locomotive Mechanic

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and safety-focused Locomotive Mechanic to inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and service diesel and electric locomotives and related mechanical equipment. The Locomotive Mechanic will diagnose mechanical and diesel engine issues, perform preventive and emergency repairs, complete inspections, maintain accurate records, and ensure equipment is maintained in a safe and reliable operating condition.

This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and a commitment to following railroad safety requirements, Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations, company procedures, and required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Key Responsibilities

• Inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, repair, and service locomotives and locomotive components.
• Follow all applicable railroad safety rules, operating procedures, and FRA requirements.
• Follow required worker protection procedures, including blue signal/blue flag protection.
• Inspect equipment and components to ensure compliance with applicable railroad and industry standards.
• Diagnose malfunctions in diesel engines, air systems, trucks, electrical/mechanical components, and other locomotive systems.
• Perform emergency, preventive, and corrective repairs on locomotives.
• Repair or replace locomotive and diesel engine components, including wheels, trucks, traction motors, springs, couplers, draft gear, gear cases, cylinder heads, air compressors, turbochargers, and related components.
• Perform routine locomotive servicing, including fueling, watering, lubricating, oiling, cleaning, and checking supplies.
• Perform periodic and annual inspections in accordance with applicable requirements.
• Maintain accurate written and electronic records of inspections, maintenance, repairs, and completed work.
• Read and interpret blueprints, schematics, work instructions, and maintenance documentation.
• Use hand tools, power tools, precision instruments, and mechanical equipment safely and properly.
• Operate equipment such as forklifts, overhead cranes, torque wrenches, pipe threaders, tubing benders, cutting torches, and other shop equipment as required.
• Complete assigned work accurately and within established time requirements.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining quality and safety standards.
• Keep work areas, tools, and equipment clean, organized, and properly maintained.
• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and PPE requirements.
• Assist with training and sharing mechanical knowledge with less-experienced or seasonal employees when needed.

Advanced Mechanical Responsibilities

Depending on experience and skill level, responsibilities may include:

• Aligning rotating equipment.
• Identifying locomotive systems and performing air tests.
• Using precision measuring instruments and specialized tooling.
• Troubleshooting more complex mechanical and locomotive systems.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a locomotive, diesel, automotive, heavy equipment, aircraft, or industrial mechanic is preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to troubleshoot mechanical systems.
• Knowledge of diesel engines and mechanical components.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, schematics, and technical instructions.
• Ability to safely operate mechanical tools and equipment.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in a safety-sensitive environment.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Technical certifications or formal mechanical training are a plus.

Experience Levels

• Entry/Level I: 0–2 years of relevant mechanical experience.
• Intermediate/Level II: 2–5 years of relevant mechanical experience and/or technical training or certifications.
• Experienced/Level III: 5+ years of relevant mechanical experience and/or applicable technical certifications.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in confined or tight spaces while repairing equipment.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and frequently walk, bend, squat, kneel, climb, and work from elevated or uneven positions.
• Ability to work around loud noise, vibration, machinery, tools, welding, and cutting operations.
• Ability to read technical documentation and clearly understand written and verbal instructions.
• Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying temperatures and weather conditions.
• Ability to work around oils, lubricants, fuels, and other industrial materials while following appropriate safety procedures.

Work Environment & Safety

This is a safety-sensitive position that may require working around operating equipment, heavy machinery, and active railroad tracks. Employees must strictly follow all applicable safety procedures, railroad rules, PPE requirements, and equipment protection procedures. The position may involve exposure to extreme temperatures, weather conditions, noise, vibration, welding and cutting operations, and mechanical hazards. Proper PPE and safe work practices are required at all times.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a dependable, mechanically skilled professional who takes pride in quality workmanship and understands the importance of safety in a railroad environment. Experience with diesel engines, heavy equipment, locomotives, automotive systems, or industrial mechanical repair is highly valuable.