Mechanical & Maintenance Lead

Position Summary

Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad is seeking a full-time Mechanical & Maintenance Lead to help ensure the safe, reliable, and service-ready condition of our locomotives, passenger cars, railbikes, and related operating equipment. This is a hands-on role responsible for performing and overseeing maintenance and repairs, tracking inspections and preventive maintenance, and coordinating outside contractors when specialized work is needed.

This position is ideal for someone with strong mechanical ability, solid troubleshooting skills, and the ability to keep multiple projects and maintenance priorities moving forward. The Mechanical & Maintenance Lead will play a vital role in helping preserve our historic equipment while supporting safe and successful daily operations.

Key ResponsibilitiesEquipment Maintenance & Repairs

• Perform hands-on maintenance and repair work on locomotives, passenger cars, railbikes, and related operating equipment
• Troubleshoot and complete repairs involving HVAC, electrical, mechanical, and general equipment issues
• Monitor the condition, safety, and readiness of all operating equipment
• Identify repair needs and determine what work can be handled in-house versus by outside contractors
• Coordinate and oversee outside vendors and contractors for specialized repairs and projects
• Assist in maintaining an organized, safe, and functional shop and work environment

Preventive Maintenance & Inspections

• Develop, track, and carry out preventive maintenance schedules for locomotives, railcars, railbikes, and other operating assets
• Ensure inspections, maintenance logs, and required documentation are completed accurately and on time
• Help maintain compliance with inspection schedules, safety standards, and internal maintenance procedures
• Track open maintenance items and follow through to completion
• Help plan and prioritize maintenance projects based on equipment condition and operating needs

Coordination & Operational Support

• Work closely with leadership, the Chief Mechanical Operator, and the operations team to help ensure equipment is ready for excursions, private charters, special events, and seasonal programming
• Communicate maintenance concerns, equipment needs, and repair timelines in a timely manner
• Support long-term planning for equipment upkeep, maintenance priorities, and capital improvement needs
• Assist with purchasing or sourcing parts, supplies, and repair materials as needed
• Help support a culture of safety, accountability, and readiness across the organization

Qualifications Required

• Experience in mechanical repair, maintenance, electrical systems, HVAC, industrial equipment, fleet maintenance, railroad equipment, or a related field
• Ability to perform hands-on troubleshooting and repair work
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple maintenance priorities at once
• Experience coordinating repairs, inspections, or maintenance schedules
• Ability to work in a safety-sensitive environment
• Willingness to work some evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

Preferred

• Experience with railroad equipment, passenger transportation equipment, or similar mechanical systems
• Experience working with outside contractors and vendors
• Familiarity with maintenance records, inspection tracking, and preventive maintenance planning
• Welding, fabrication, diesel, or related technical experience
• Experience in tourism, attractions, museum operations, nonprofit operations, or a similar environment

Work Environment

This is a hands-on role that includes shop work, field work, equipment troubleshooting, and some planning and documentation responsibilities. The position requires the ability to work around railroad equipment, tools, mechanical systems, and outdoor environments in varying weather conditions.

Compensation & Benefits

At this time, Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad is unable to offer full benefits. However, this position does include a generous paid time off plan.

About Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad

Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad is a Noblesville-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving railroad history while creating memorable experiences for guests of all ages through historic train rides, railbike tours, educational programs, and special events.

Pay: $28.00 - $32.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Work Location: In person