How to become rail car repairerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$67,530
25th–75th pct. $54,520–$84,570
Top pay (est.)
$123,600
Top 10% $95,100
Pay in 5 years
$78,900est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$92,100est.
$79,200–$107,000
Outlook score
51/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
20%
Very low
Job growth (10 yr)
+2.6%
1,600 openings / yr
How to become rail car repairers
Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Long-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Rail Car Repairers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Handling and Moving ObjectsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesControlling Machines and ProcessesRepairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsOperating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkMaking Decisions and Solving Problems
Important abilities
VisualizationNear VisionReaction TimeTrunk StrengthFinger DexterityManual Dexterity
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★☆☆☆☆ Easy to enter (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as rail car repairers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.