Sign in
Sign up
Description
Install, troubleshoot, and maintain electrical and electronic systems on locomotives, including traction power, control, braking, lighting, communications, and safety systems to ensure reliable, FRA-compliant operation.
Job tasks Attributes
  • • Inspect and test locomotive electrical systems and components to diagnose faults using meters, test stands, and diagnostic software.
  • • Reassemble, calibrate, and test traction, control, and auxiliary systems after repairs.
  • • Splice and terminate cables; solder and crimp connections per railroad standards.
  • • Install and replace fuses, circuit breakers, cables, batteries, and power distribution hardware.
  • • Locate and correct circuit defects such as shorts, opens, blown protection devices, and failed contactors or modules.
  • • Repair or replace wiring harnesses, relays, contactors, and connectors in control, lighting, HVAC, and safety circuits.
  • • Read and interpret wiring diagrams, schematics, and OEM manuals to plan repairs and modifications.
  • • Document work performed, parts used, test results, and updates in maintenance systems.
  • • Fabricate and mount panels, brackets, and enclosures; drill or cut openings to route conduit and cable.
  • • Measure, cut, and install conduit, trays, and supports to route and protect wiring and control cables.
  • • Install and service alternators, starters, HVAC units, radios, PTC equipment, event recorders, and battery chargers.
  • • Install terminal blocks, switches, junction boxes, sensors, and control panels.
  • • Repair or rebuild components such as contactors, starter motors, alternators, dynamic brake resistor grids, and door control circuits.
  • • Coordinate with engineers and maintenance supervisors to determine malfunctions and schedule repairs.
  • • Estimate labor and parts, prepare work orders, and requisition materials for electrical repairs.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Interview time
Related Pathways
Supply Chain & Transportation View
Source
Tasks & skills: O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge). Learn more
Sources & Standards: This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
Share this job