Railcar Repair Technician

Build Your Career With a Team That Keeps America Moving Cypress Rail Solutions is hiring a Railcar Repair Technician to support hands‑on railcar repair operations in our Iowa City Repair Shop. This role is ideal for individuals with a mechanical background who are ready to learn the rail industry and grow their skills under the guidance of experienced technicians and supervisors. As a Railcar Repair Technician, you'll work alongside shop leadership to safely assemble, install, repair, and secure railcar and tank car components—playing a critical role in keeping freight moving safely and efficiently. Whether you're building your railcar repair experience or bringing a strong mechanical background to the field, this is a chance to work with a stable company that values safety, skill, and teamwork. What You'll Do Perform mechanical repairs and component replacement, including brake assemblies and shoes, uncoupling levers, gaskets, air hoses, train lines, couplers, draft gears, yokes, and related railcar parts Repair, replace, or straighten structural components such as side posts, rafters, crossties, panels, piping, grab irons, handholds, and still steps Weld, cut, burn, and fabricate steel components using welding torches, electric welders, impact wrenches, hydraulic bolt fasteners, pneumatic tools, and hand tools Assemble, install, align, torque, and secure railcar and tank car components such as ladders, handrails, brake systems, and mechanical assemblies according to specifications and drawings Inspect completed work to ensure quality and compliance with AAR, FRA, and company standards; document work and report issues to supervision Remove damaged or worn components and assist with disassembly during repairs; support shop operations including material handling, cleaning, and welding prep Stencil railcars, clean and prepare surfaces for painting, and complete finishing tasks as required Maintain, repair, or replace air brake pipes, valves, fittings, and related parts Push, pull, and position heavy equipment or components safely using proper tools and methods Read and interpret blueprints, work orders, and technical drawings to determine repair requirements Follow all safety rules, wear required PPE, maintain an organized work area, and perform other duties as assigned What We're Looking For High school diploma or GED Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in hands‑on repair work Ability to read and follow work instructions, safety rules, and technical drawings Proficiency (or willingness to learn) with hand tools and power tools Attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks Comfortable working in industrial environments and outdoors in varying weather conditions Willingness to complete required safety and hazmat training Must have and maintain an insurable driving status in accordance with Cypress Rail Solutions driver provisions Why You'll Love Working Here Full‑time, stable employment Hands‑on training and skill development in the rail industry Supportive leadership and team‑driven shop environment Opportunity to grow into higher‑level technician roles Competitive pay based on experience and comprehensive benefits Join a company where your work matters, your skills are valued, and your effort helps keep rail freight moving safely across the country.

Competencies:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies: Good mechanical background will be required to become conversant with the General Code of Operating Rules, Safety Rules, AAR Rules and regulations, and FRA requirements. Welding and machine experience preferred. Apply principles of rational systems to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Be able to read and understand safety rules, instructions in the use and maintenance of shop tools and equipment, and methods and procedures in mechanical drawing and layout work.

Physical Demands :

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the physical demands listed below: Regularly work on uneven or slippery surfaces, platforms, ladders, and shop equipmentMost of the day spent standing and performing manual labor Requires hand/eye coordination, dexterity, and frequent lifting from various levels Exposure may include vibration, noise, temperature extremes, work at heights, smoke, dust, paint, cramped spaces, and moving machinery Work includes washing railcars outside in all weather conditions PPE and respiratory protection required for identified tasks

Environmental:

Continuous:

Standing on concrete.

Occasional:

Vibration, noise, hot or cold temperature extremes, work at heights, uneven surfaces, shift work, paperwork, travel, smoke & dust, paint, cramped quarters & moving machinery. Wash rail cars outside in all weather conditions. Must wear correct PPE and masks for identified jobs and painting.

Education and Training:

GED or higher. Must have and maintain an insurable driving status which includes but is not limited to CRS driver provisions.

Requirements of Joining Our Team:

Our comprehensive pre-employment process ensures the well-being and integrity of our team. To join our organization, candidates are required to: Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment. Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met. Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character. Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position. This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned. This Job Description may change at any time declared by Management. Cypress Rail Solutions is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation.