FAQ
Rail Car Repairer FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a rail car repairer.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a rail car repairer: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about rail car repairers
Do rail car repairers need a degree?
No.
Are jobs union?
Many are.
Is welding needed?
Often, yes.
How much does a rail car repairer make?
The median annual wage for rail car repairers was $67,530 ($32.46 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $46,800 and the highest 10% earned more than $95,100.
How long does it take to become a rail car repairer?
Most people need about 1–3 years of training of training. A high school diploma and long-term on-the-job training or an apprenticeship are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a rail car repairer?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
Is rail car repairer a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.6% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 1,600 openings each year. Upsides include union pay and benefits; a common challenge is that outdoor work in all weather.
What skills does a rail car repairer need?
Key technical skills include air brake systems, welding, wheel and bearing replacement, and coupler repair. Employers also value safety awareness, reliability, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for rail car repairers?
Common credentials include FRA brake inspection qualification, AWS welding certification, Railroad apprenticeship, and Forklift certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Rail Car Repairer fit quiz, compare with Welder, or explore Rail Car Repairer training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-3043 (Rail car repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Rail car repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.