Rail Car Mechanic

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

CPKC is hiring a Rail Car Mechanic in Davenport, IA for full-time onsite work in a safety-driven shop. The role covers preventive and corrective maintenance on freight cars, including trucks, under-frame, braking and safety systems, with welding work and a four-week railroad welding course provided. Requirements include a HS diploma or GED, 2+ years around heavy equipment, a valid driver’s license (CDL preferred), and the ability to work shifts and pass medical, drug and background checks. This union position offers competitive pay at $35.90/hr plus benefits. To apply, tailor your resume to emphasize hands-on maintenance, welding, safety compliance, and strong communication, and show readiness for pre-employment checks.

Join CPKC, North America’s first transnational railroad connecting U.S. Canada and Mexico, where your career drives progress and safety is paramount. We connect communities, fuel economic growth, and provide meaningful work in a culture that values diversity, accountability, and pride. With opportunities for training, development, and advancement, you’re not just building a career—you’re part of something bigger. Together, we move goods, connect people, and create lasting change. Your future starts here.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

As a Rail Car Mechanic, you will be part of a skilled team working in a fast‑paced, high‑production environment, performing both preventive and corrective maintenance on rail cars in accordance with regulatory standards. You will receive hands‑on training, including a four‑week welding course specifically designed for the railroad industry, to support your long‑term success and development in the role.

POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Repair, maintain and inspect freight car equipment in a safe and efficient manner
• Perform all preventative maintenance work and repairs on trucks, under-frame, structure, safety appliances, braking systems, draft systems and any associated tests
• Perform all work associated with rush repairs, road work and supplementary service operation of equipment
• Weld, torch cutting and using all hand power tools to make repairs while working all around, under, between, on top and inside of rail cars

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or general equivalency
• Minimum 2 years’ experience working on or around heavy equipment
• Valid driver’s license
• Commercial driver’s license preferred
• Available to work all types of shifts, including nights, weekends and holidays in all weather conditions
• Ability to pass the required written examinations, read and understand safety instructions, rules, regulations and other written or printed material in English
• Dedication to safety and ability to complete work within guidelines/rules
• Strong communication skills (provide clear and concise instructions/directions)

WHAT CPKC HAS TO OFFER:

• Flexible and competitive benefits package
• Competitive company pension and/or retirement plans
• Employee share purchase plan
• Annual fitness subsidy
• Part-time studies program

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

Medical and Drug Testing

This is a safety sensitive position and a successful pre-employment medical assessment including physical, vision, hearing, and a negative company or regulated drug test is required. Post hire qualification drug testing may also be required.

Background Investigation:

• Criminal history check
• Education verification
• Driver’s license verification and driving history
• Social Security Number verification
• Department of Transportation Background Check 40.25 Form 

CULTURE OF INCLUSION:

For our U.S. applicants, CPKC is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, inclusive of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For Canadian applicants CPKC is an employment equity employer committed to the principles of employment equity and inclusion. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply including: women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), members of the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities. Accommodations for the job application process can be provide, as appropriate, upon request. All applicant information will be managed in accordance with the federal Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

• Req ID: 105534
• Department: Mechanical Car
• Job Type: Full-Time
• Position Type: Union
• Location: Davenport, Iowa
• Country: United States
• % of Travel: 0-10%
• # of Positions: 1
• Compensation Rate: $35.90/ hour
• Job Available to: Internal & External

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