MRU - Railcar Repair Technician Lead

Compass Rail Services•Mounds, IL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

At Compass Rail, we are dedicated to providing top-tier solutions for railcar repair and transloading. With an experienced team and a commitment to excellence, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients in the rail transportation industry. The Mobile Railcar Repair Lead (MRU Lead) is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a mobile repair crew, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality railcar repair services are delivered at customer sites. This role leads and coordinates crew activities, monitors production goals, ensures compliance with safety standards and company procedures, and serves as the primary point of contact for both team members and management. The MRU Lead is also expected to step in and perform crew-level duties when production needs or absences require.

Requirements

Previous experience in railcar repair, maintenance, or related mechanical field required.
Strong knowledge of AAR and FRA rules and industry repair standards.
Ability to read and interpret technical documents, blueprints, and repair specifications.
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Demonstrated commitment to safety and quality.
Ability to work independently in a mobile environment with minimal supervision.
Must meet physical requirements for railcar repair work (lifting, climbing, working outdoors, etc.).
Valid driver's license and ability to travel as required.

Nice To Haves

Leadership or supervisory experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead, schedule, and direct daily activities of a single Mobile Railcar Repair Unit (MRU) crew.
Ensure railcar inspections, repairs, and maintenance are performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with AAR, FRA, and customer requirements.
Monitor workflow, assign tasks, and verify completion of work to production and quality standards.
Provide technical guidance, on-the-job training, and support to crew members.
Fill in and perform crew-level duties as necessary to meet production requirements or cover absences.
Maintain accurate records of repairs, work orders, time, and materials used.
Serve as the on-site safety leader, enforcing company safety policies and leading daily safety briefings.
Act as the primary contact for customer representatives during mobile repair operations.
Troubleshoot issues that arise during repair operations and escalate when necessary.
Ensure tools, equipment, and mobile unit are properly maintained and stocked.
Support continuous improvement by identifying and reporting opportunities to improve efficiency, safety, and quality.