Posted 24 July, 2026
Diesel Mechanic-Electrician
Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.
Lansford, ND, US
Full Time
Job Description
Now Hiring: Diesel Mechanic / Electrician\n
\nWhat You’ll Be Doing:\n
\nTroubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining diesel‑electric locomotives\n
\nWorking with electrical systems, engines, motors, generators, and mechanical components\n
\nDiagnosing issues, performing inspections, and keeping equipment operating at its best\n
\nUsing a wide range of tools and equipment in an active shop and field environment\n
\nWhat We’re Looking For:\n
\nMechanical and electrical experience\n
\nComfort working with voltage systems and diesel engines\n
\nStrong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail\n
\nCommitment to safety and teamwork\n
\n
\nInterested? See full job description below!\n
\n
\nCompany: Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.\n
\n
\nBusiness Unit: AGZ\n
\n
\nDepartment: Locomotive Repair\n
\n
\nTravel may also be required as needed 30%.\n
\n
\nSchedule: Varies. M-F and may include holidays and/or weekends. 07:00-16:00 with additional hours as necessary.\n
\n
\nSummary:\n
\n
\nThe Diesel Mechanic/Electrician position installs and maintains electrical wiring and equipment, such as motors, generators, air-conditioning units, electrical outlets, and lighting fixtures of railroad locomotives. Diesel mechanics are responsible for the inspection, repair and maintenance of the locomotive engine and mechanical components on diesel, electric, heavy equipment & small engine repair.\n
\n
\nEssential Duties and Responsibilities are, but are not limited to:\n
\n
\nDiesel electricians/mechanics are responsible for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of the electrical and mechanical components on diesel electric locomotives.\n
\nConduct inspections on locomotive electrical and Locomotive Engine components.\n
\nPerform scheduled electrical inspections in compliance with Company, Industry, and Federal standards.\n
\nInspect various small (relays, voltage regulators) and large components (traction motors generators).\n
\nInspect and test circuitry with electrical testing equipment.\n
\nInspect wheels, trucks, cab, and internal diesel engine parts, inspect for usual smells, overheating, and small changes in the visual appearance of objects/materials.\n
\nTroubleshoot malfunctions.\n
\nDiagnose electrical malfunctions in locomotive or diesel engine components; assess nature of problem and determine needed corrective action; includes both high and low voltage equipment.\n
\nPerform maintenance and repairs.\n
\nReplace electrical components in the locomotive cab or diesel electrical compartments (junction boxes, voltage regulators, traction motors) as needed.\n
\nDisassemble and clean electrical parts.\n
\nAssemble components.\n
\nProvide maintenance for miscellaneous equipment and facilities using blueprints, schematics, and location circuit plans.\n
\nReplace locomotive and diesel engine component (wheels, traction motors, and worn or cracked engine components).\n
\nSafely and effectively operate the following: high and low precision measuring instruments (micrometers, tape measures, dial calipers); precision machines (drill and punch presses, bench lathes); electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic tools (drills, wrenches, grinders); material handling equipment (forklifts, cranes, overhead hoists); acetylene torches and electric welders.\n
\nUnderstand and follow company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures.\n
\nMust wear prescribed safety apparel.\n
\nTake appropriate action when conditions threaten safety of self or coworkers.\n
\nEnsure equipment and work area are in safe operating condition before starting work.\n
\nRead and comply with all train orders, signals, railroad rules, and regulations.\n
\nWill perform work on Northern Plains Railroad as directed.\n
\n
\n Competencies:\n
\n
\nTo perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:\n
\n
\nStrong Mechanical and Electrical Background. Railroad experience a plus.\n
\nExperience with both AC and DC voltage systems.\n
\nMust be willing to work flexible schedules/hours.\n
\nHigh integrity, ethics, and a positive work attitude\n
\nProblem solving, oral & written communications, organizational and interpersonal skills, perception, creativity.\n
\nPossess analytical and calculating ability.\n
\n
\n Physical Demands:\n
\n
\nReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the physical demands listed below:\n
\n
\nThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to perform on uneven or slippery surfaces, platforms, ladders, equipment in all weather and temperature conditions. Most of the day could be spent on feet standing. Eye/hand coordination, hand/feet dexterity and grasping hand tools, materials & equipment is required. The employee is frequently required to perform manual labor & physical activities that require considerable use of the whole body, such as standing and lifting from various levels.\n
\nAdditional physical demands are listed in the chart below.\n
\n
\n Environmental:\n
\n
\nContinuous: Exposure to electrical hazards, stand on concrete, works with others, concentration, eye/hand coordination.\n
\nFrequent: Works in cramped quarters, exposure to dust & smoke, fumes, odors, grease, oil, works in hot & cold temperatures, travel required & on-call, works inside & outside, noise, wet conditions, working with interruptions, works on feet-foot pedals, dexterity with fingering-picking, pinching, calculator, and handling, holding & grasping. Prepares reports.\n
\nOccasional: Exposure to chemicals, vibration, walk on uneven or slippery surface, works alone, works with moving machinery, repetitive flexion/rotation wrist motion.\n
\nRare: Exposure to toxic materials, shift work & money handling.\n
\n
\n Education and Training:\n
\n
\nGED or Higher, with 2 – 3 years’ experience working as a diesel mechanic.\n
\nPreferred bachelor’s degree or an associate degree or diploma in electrical, mechanical, or automotive engineering or any other related field of study from an accredited institution.\n
\nLeadership experience a plus.\n
\nValid driver’s license.\n
\nMust have and maintain an insurable driving status which includes but is not limited to NPRS driver provisions.\n
\n
\n Requirements of Joining Our Team:\n
\n
\nOur comprehensive pre-employment process ensures the well-being and integrity of our team. To join our organization, candidates are required to:\n
\n
\n 1. Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment.\n
\n
\n 2. Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met.\n
\n
\n 3. Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character.\n
\n
\n 4. Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position.\n
\n
\nWe value transparency and the safety of our employees and customers, and these steps are essential in upholding our commitment to excellence.\n
\n
\nLIFT 2 - Physical Demands Checklist\n
\n
\n* Never (N) = Not at all * Rarely (R) = 1-5% * Occasionally (O) = 6-33% * Frequently (F) = 34-66% * Continuously (C) = 67-100%\n
\n
\nTASKS\n
\n
\nN 0%\n
\n
\nR 1-5%\n
\n
\nO\n
\n
\n6-33%\n
\n
\nF\n
\n
\n34-66%\n
\n
\nC 67-100%\n
\n
\nEssential\n
\n
\nComments\n
\n
\nSitting\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nStanding\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nWalking Distance: 600 ft\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nBending/Stooping: 2 min\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nSitting while twisting & reaching above shoulder level\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nTASKS continued\n
\n
\nN 0%\n
\n
\nR 1-5%\n
\n
\nO 6-33%\n
\n
\nF 34-66%\n
\n
\nC 67-100%\n
\n
\nEssential\n
\n
\nComments\n
\n
\nCrawling 10 ft\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nSquatting: 10 reps\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nClimbing Stairs: YMCA Step Test\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nNOT Pass or Fail\n
\n
\nClimbing Ladder: 30 rungs\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nBalancing CTSIB-M test\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nReaching- Forward\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nReaching- Overhead arm’s length\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nReaching Low Level\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nStatic Push/Pull: Static push force 50# at shoulder level\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nPush/Pull: 90# force at waist level, simulate throw a switch\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nShoveling\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nGrip Strength min. 50#\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nGross & Fine coordination\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nLift / Carry\n
\n
\nFloor to Waist & Bilateral Carry\n
\n
\n<10#\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\n 11-24 #\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\n 25-34 #\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\n 35-50 #\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nLift 50 # Waist to Crown\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE\n
\n
\nWorking around moving machinery, parts & equipment\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nWorking outside & extreme weather conditions\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nExposure to heat /humidity\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nExposure to cold\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nUsing power equipment\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nSlippery surfaces\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nNoise\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nWorks with others, alone, paperwork\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nTASKS continued\n
\n
\nN 0%\n
\n
\nR 1-5%\n
\n
\nO 6-33%\n
\n
\nF 34-66%\n
\n
\nC 67-100%\n
\n
\nEssential\n
\n
\nComments\n
\n
\nDust, Smoke, Odors, Fumes, Grease, Oil\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nHearing\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nHearing acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs OSHA\n
\n
\nSpeech\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nVision\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nVision acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs Standard\n
\n
\nStandard Vision\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nStandard Vision-Snellen/Ishihara/Perimetry\n
\n
\nWorks at heights\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nElectrical hazards\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nUneven surfaces\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nInhalation Exposure\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nCramped quarters\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nHazardous Material\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nChemical Exposure\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nVibration\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nThis job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned. This Job Description may change at any time declared by Management.\n
\n
\n NPRS is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. NPRS is a tradename used by Northern Plains Railroad, Inc. (NPR), Northern Plains Services, Inc. (NPS), and All Rail, Inc. (All Rail).
\nWhat You’ll Be Doing:\n
\nTroubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining diesel‑electric locomotives\n
\nWorking with electrical systems, engines, motors, generators, and mechanical components\n
\nDiagnosing issues, performing inspections, and keeping equipment operating at its best\n
\nUsing a wide range of tools and equipment in an active shop and field environment\n
\nWhat We’re Looking For:\n
\nMechanical and electrical experience\n
\nComfort working with voltage systems and diesel engines\n
\nStrong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail\n
\nCommitment to safety and teamwork\n
\n
\nInterested? See full job description below!\n
\n
\nCompany: Northern Plains Railroad, Inc.\n
\n
\nBusiness Unit: AGZ\n
\n
\nDepartment: Locomotive Repair\n
\n
\nTravel may also be required as needed 30%.\n
\n
\nSchedule: Varies. M-F and may include holidays and/or weekends. 07:00-16:00 with additional hours as necessary.\n
\n
\nSummary:\n
\n
\nThe Diesel Mechanic/Electrician position installs and maintains electrical wiring and equipment, such as motors, generators, air-conditioning units, electrical outlets, and lighting fixtures of railroad locomotives. Diesel mechanics are responsible for the inspection, repair and maintenance of the locomotive engine and mechanical components on diesel, electric, heavy equipment & small engine repair.\n
\n
\nEssential Duties and Responsibilities are, but are not limited to:\n
\n
\nDiesel electricians/mechanics are responsible for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of the electrical and mechanical components on diesel electric locomotives.\n
\nConduct inspections on locomotive electrical and Locomotive Engine components.\n
\nPerform scheduled electrical inspections in compliance with Company, Industry, and Federal standards.\n
\nInspect various small (relays, voltage regulators) and large components (traction motors generators).\n
\nInspect and test circuitry with electrical testing equipment.\n
\nInspect wheels, trucks, cab, and internal diesel engine parts, inspect for usual smells, overheating, and small changes in the visual appearance of objects/materials.\n
\nTroubleshoot malfunctions.\n
\nDiagnose electrical malfunctions in locomotive or diesel engine components; assess nature of problem and determine needed corrective action; includes both high and low voltage equipment.\n
\nPerform maintenance and repairs.\n
\nReplace electrical components in the locomotive cab or diesel electrical compartments (junction boxes, voltage regulators, traction motors) as needed.\n
\nDisassemble and clean electrical parts.\n
\nAssemble components.\n
\nProvide maintenance for miscellaneous equipment and facilities using blueprints, schematics, and location circuit plans.\n
\nReplace locomotive and diesel engine component (wheels, traction motors, and worn or cracked engine components).\n
\nSafely and effectively operate the following: high and low precision measuring instruments (micrometers, tape measures, dial calipers); precision machines (drill and punch presses, bench lathes); electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic tools (drills, wrenches, grinders); material handling equipment (forklifts, cranes, overhead hoists); acetylene torches and electric welders.\n
\nUnderstand and follow company and industry safety rules, practices, and procedures.\n
\nMust wear prescribed safety apparel.\n
\nTake appropriate action when conditions threaten safety of self or coworkers.\n
\nEnsure equipment and work area are in safe operating condition before starting work.\n
\nRead and comply with all train orders, signals, railroad rules, and regulations.\n
\nWill perform work on Northern Plains Railroad as directed.\n
\n
\n Competencies:\n
\n
\nTo perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:\n
\n
\nStrong Mechanical and Electrical Background. Railroad experience a plus.\n
\nExperience with both AC and DC voltage systems.\n
\nMust be willing to work flexible schedules/hours.\n
\nHigh integrity, ethics, and a positive work attitude\n
\nProblem solving, oral & written communications, organizational and interpersonal skills, perception, creativity.\n
\nPossess analytical and calculating ability.\n
\n
\n Physical Demands:\n
\n
\nReasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the physical demands listed below:\n
\n
\nThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to perform on uneven or slippery surfaces, platforms, ladders, equipment in all weather and temperature conditions. Most of the day could be spent on feet standing. Eye/hand coordination, hand/feet dexterity and grasping hand tools, materials & equipment is required. The employee is frequently required to perform manual labor & physical activities that require considerable use of the whole body, such as standing and lifting from various levels.\n
\nAdditional physical demands are listed in the chart below.\n
\n
\n Environmental:\n
\n
\nContinuous: Exposure to electrical hazards, stand on concrete, works with others, concentration, eye/hand coordination.\n
\nFrequent: Works in cramped quarters, exposure to dust & smoke, fumes, odors, grease, oil, works in hot & cold temperatures, travel required & on-call, works inside & outside, noise, wet conditions, working with interruptions, works on feet-foot pedals, dexterity with fingering-picking, pinching, calculator, and handling, holding & grasping. Prepares reports.\n
\nOccasional: Exposure to chemicals, vibration, walk on uneven or slippery surface, works alone, works with moving machinery, repetitive flexion/rotation wrist motion.\n
\nRare: Exposure to toxic materials, shift work & money handling.\n
\n
\n Education and Training:\n
\n
\nGED or Higher, with 2 – 3 years’ experience working as a diesel mechanic.\n
\nPreferred bachelor’s degree or an associate degree or diploma in electrical, mechanical, or automotive engineering or any other related field of study from an accredited institution.\n
\nLeadership experience a plus.\n
\nValid driver’s license.\n
\nMust have and maintain an insurable driving status which includes but is not limited to NPRS driver provisions.\n
\n
\n Requirements of Joining Our Team:\n
\n
\nOur comprehensive pre-employment process ensures the well-being and integrity of our team. To join our organization, candidates are required to:\n
\n
\n 1. Pass a mandatory drug test to maintain a drug-free workplace. Random, reasonable suspicion and post-accident testing may also be required throughout employment.\n
\n
\n 2. Undergo a thorough physical examination to ensure the requirements of the position can be met.\n
\n
\n 3. Provide professional references to validate qualifications and character.\n
\n
\n 4. Complete a comprehensive background check to confirm suitability for the position.\n
\n
\nWe value transparency and the safety of our employees and customers, and these steps are essential in upholding our commitment to excellence.\n
\n
\nLIFT 2 - Physical Demands Checklist\n
\n
\n* Never (N) = Not at all * Rarely (R) = 1-5% * Occasionally (O) = 6-33% * Frequently (F) = 34-66% * Continuously (C) = 67-100%\n
\n
\nTASKS\n
\n
\nN 0%\n
\n
\nR 1-5%\n
\n
\nO\n
\n
\n6-33%\n
\n
\nF\n
\n
\n34-66%\n
\n
\nC 67-100%\n
\n
\nEssential\n
\n
\nComments\n
\n
\nSitting\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nStanding\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nWalking Distance: 600 ft\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nBending/Stooping: 2 min\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nSitting while twisting & reaching above shoulder level\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nTASKS continued\n
\n
\nN 0%\n
\n
\nR 1-5%\n
\n
\nO 6-33%\n
\n
\nF 34-66%\n
\n
\nC 67-100%\n
\n
\nEssential\n
\n
\nComments\n
\n
\nCrawling 10 ft\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nSquatting: 10 reps\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nClimbing Stairs: YMCA Step Test\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nNOT Pass or Fail\n
\n
\nClimbing Ladder: 30 rungs\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nBalancing CTSIB-M test\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nReaching- Forward\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nReaching- Overhead arm’s length\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nReaching Low Level\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nStatic Push/Pull: Static push force 50# at shoulder level\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nPush/Pull: 90# force at waist level, simulate throw a switch\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nShoveling\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nGrip Strength min. 50#\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nGross & Fine coordination\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nLift / Carry\n
\n
\nFloor to Waist & Bilateral Carry\n
\n
\n<10#\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\n 11-24 #\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\n 25-34 #\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\n 35-50 #\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nLift 50 # Waist to Crown\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE\n
\n
\nWorking around moving machinery, parts & equipment\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nWorking outside & extreme weather conditions\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nExposure to heat /humidity\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nExposure to cold\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nUsing power equipment\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nSlippery surfaces\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nNoise\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nWorks with others, alone, paperwork\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nTASKS continued\n
\n
\nN 0%\n
\n
\nR 1-5%\n
\n
\nO 6-33%\n
\n
\nF 34-66%\n
\n
\nC 67-100%\n
\n
\nEssential\n
\n
\nComments\n
\n
\nDust, Smoke, Odors, Fumes, Grease, Oil\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nHearing\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nHearing acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs OSHA\n
\n
\nSpeech\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nVision\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nVision acuity-MEC/Medical Examiner's Certificate DOT vs FRA-DOT vs Standard\n
\n
\nStandard Vision\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nStandard Vision-Snellen/Ishihara/Perimetry\n
\n
\nWorks at heights\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nElectrical hazards\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nUneven surfaces\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nInhalation Exposure\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nCramped quarters\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nHazardous Material\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nChemical Exposure\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nVibration\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nX\n
\n
\nThis job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties assigned. This Job Description may change at any time declared by Management.\n
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\n NPRS is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected under local, state, or federal statute, ordinance, or regulation. NPRS is a tradename used by Northern Plains Railroad, Inc. (NPR), Northern Plains Services, Inc. (NPS), and All Rail, Inc. (All Rail).
