What does a Railway Car Technician (268R) do?

Railway Car Technicians ensure that trains, streetcars, and subway trains are working correctly. They are responsible for inspecting passenger and freight cars for damage and making necessary repairs. This means working with any of the parts involved in the inner/outer works of a rail car, including compressors, air valves, piping, air cylinders, passenger seats, windows, and washrooms.

Job Related Skills, Interests and Values

  • Using hand tools, power tools, and welding equipment
  • Understanding an observing all safety procedures
  • Inspecting passenger and freight trains for damage; diagnosing and repairing any problems
  • Repairing and repainting metal and wood materials
  • Installing or repairing air valves, bearings, compressors, cylinders, and piping
  • Installing, maintaining, or replacing windows
  • Repairing upholstery

What Preparation and Training Do You Need?

  • Secondary school diploma with math and physics credits
  • While not mandatory, completion of a 7,280-hour apprenticeship, including a combination of on-the-job and in-school training, is recommended

What's Your Future as a Railway Car Technician (268R)?

  • May work inside a car barn or outside in various weather conditions; may be required to travel with the trains for troubleshooting
  • Exposed to dirt, grease, and oil
  • Specializations include wheels, axles, or brake lines
  • Employers include railway transport and public transportation companies

Wage Rate

Apprentice wage increases with skills and expertise. Fully qualified workers earn an average of up to $25.00 per hour.

Self-Rating

Railway Car Technician (268R)

Ask Yourself: Yes No
Do you have good manual dexterity and a good eye for detail?
Are you interested in trains and automobiles?
Are you able to lift 50lbs comfortably?
Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines?
Are you comfortable working indoors and outdoors?
Would you enjoy interacting with site supervisors, customers, suppliers, co-workers and other tradespeople to get the job done?
Do you like keeping things maintained and in good working order?


If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as a Railway Car Technician may be for you!

You might want to look at these similar trades as well;

  • Industrial Maintenance Mechanic Millwright
  • Bearings Mechanic
  • Facilities Maintenance Mechanic
  • Machine Fitter
  • Construction Millwright
  • Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Mechanic

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