Manager of Passenger Railcar Excursion Equipment

Succession Planning for Railroads Investing in the Next Generation LLC•Dillwyn, VA

17d•$100,000 - $106,000

About The Position

The Manager of Passenger Excursion Equipment is responsible for the safe, reliable, and complaint operation, maintenance, restoration, and lifecycle management of passenger railcars and related excursion equipment. This role oversees mechanical staff, coordinates inspections, repairs, and renovations, ensures regulatory compliance (FRA and other governing bodies), manages vendor relationships, and supports operational readiness for scheduled excursions and special events.

Requirements

Bachelorâs degree in Mechanical Engineering, Transportation, Industrial Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
Five to ten years of experience in rail equipment maintenance, passenger rail operations, or excursion operations management.
Working knowledge of FRA, AAR passenger equipment regulations.
Strong leadership and team management experience.
Budget management experience.
Ability to read technical drawings and mechanical schematics.

Nice To Haves

Experience with historic or excursion passenger equipment.
Experience with capital restoration projects.
Knowledge of HVAC, electrical systems, and passenger amenities systems.

Responsibilities

Ensure full compliance with FRA regulations, AAR standards, and applicable state/local rail safety requirements.
Maintain inspections, maintenance, and testing records for all passenger excursion equipment.
Lead safety audits, risk assessments, and corrective action initiatives.
Promote a culture of safety and operational excellence.
Oversee preventive and corrective maintenance programs for passenger railcars (mechanical, HVAC, electrical, braking, trucks, interiors).
Develop and manage equipment lifecycle and capital improvement plans.
Coordinate heavy repairs, restorations, and overhauls.
Ensure excursion equipment meets operational, safety, and customer service standards.
Manage spare parts inventory and materials planning.
Coordinate equipment availability to meet excursion schedules and special events.
Work closely with Operations, Transportation, and Marketing teams to support service delivery.
Ensure equipment readiness and reliability for peak seasons.
Supervise mechanical staff, contractors, and restoration teams.
Provide training, coaching, and performance management.
Establish clear expectations and accountability standards.
Foster teamwork and cross-departmental collaboration.
Develop and manage departmental budgets.
Track maintenance costs and identify cost-control opportunities.
Negotiate and manage contracts with vendors, suppliers, and repair facilities.
Prepare capital expenditure proposals.
Ensure passenger equipment meets cleanliness, comfort, and presentation standards.
Support themed or premium excursion services through equipment enhancements.
Balance historical preservation with operational reliability.