Locomotive Mechanic - Houston, TX

Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference

Keep the world’s supply chain moving. That’s what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. 

Whether you’re at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there’s one thread that ties everyone together. We’re all on the same team. One Watco. 

Here’s what you can expect from Watco: 

• Award-winning culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers 
• Operations training at the Safe Performance Center in Birmingham, Alabama
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University 
• Career advancement opportunities

Position Overview:

The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs and maintains locomotives consistent with company polices. Team member will be required to perform mechanical related maintenance as required. The ability to work with others to be productive is essential to the success of this position, the company, and all team members.

Callouts, Overtime and Travel will be required.

What You Will Do: 

• Coordinate locomotive mechanical department functions with all other departments.
• Comply with the guidelines set forth by the FRA on Personal Blue Signal Protection of Workers.
• Work with customers to assure a level of customer service consistent with company goals.
• Work with connecting railroads to assure efficient interchange of cars and locomotives.
• Maintain knowledge and proficiency on the interchanges rules as they pertain to locomotives.
• Possess working knowledge of the proper use of various wear limit gauges and testing equipment.
• Perform air tests, inspect and repair locomotives or components for structural defects and wear according to FRA and manufacturing guidelines.
• Maintain compliance with all rules, regulations and programs consistent with company and industry standards.

What You Will Need:

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to pass training and required testing.
• Valid Driver’s License and be insurable by company insurance provider to drive and operate company vehicles and equipment as necessary. 
• Valid TWIC card or ability to obtain TWIC prior to start date.
• A string work ethic and team-player attitude.
• A safety-first mindset.
• Must have completed a three year Railroad Apprenticeship, or have four years railroad related experience, or five years experience in some other mechanical field.
• Must possess the ability to become a qualified locomotive inspector according to the FRA regulations.
• Must possess the ability to complete written forms and reports as well as necessary Federal Railroad Administration reports pertaining to machinist position responsibilities.
• Must be familiar with state and federal regulations as it relates to the railroad industry.
• Must be able to perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock.
• Requires problem-solving abilities, adaptability and decision-making in non-standard situations.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
• Must have a working knowledge of and be familiar with various types of tools and equipment such as, but not limited to, welders, torches, hammers, jacks, and various types of other mechanical, pneumatic, and hand tools pertaining to the construction and maintenance of locomotives.
• Willingness to train, mentor and develop the skills of subordinate team member(s) required.
• Ability to speak effectively and clearly in a railroad/industrial setting including with team members and customers. 

Work Environment & Requirements:

This role is performed in a railroad setting in locations such as a short line railroad, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. This role requires the ability to work safely and effectively in this type of setting and role requires mobility and manual dexterity to navigate an industrial environment, including the use of standard office equipment. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in person and via radio or phone and have the vision to read various materials and inspect safety signs. Physical tasks include lifting to 50 pounds, using ladders and power tools, and performing fieldwork in various weather conditions while being exposed to noise, dust, and machinery. This role requires the ability to perform the essential job functions consistently, safely, and successfully in accordance with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards along with the ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance in accordance with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards.