Manufacturing Electrician

Harsco Rail is recognized for technical leadership and worldwide experience in virtually all major aspects of railway track maintenance.  We enable railroads to operate at peak efficiency over smooth, precisely aligned track that increases railway safety while reducing fuel consumption and other key operating costs. Our broad array of equipment and services support every type of railway operator, from major national and international railway systems, to short lines and high-speed urban transit networks.

We are actively seeking skilled Manufacturing Electricians to support various production departments at our West Columbia facility. Qualified candidates may be assigned to Final Assembly, Sub-Assembly, or Maintenance operations based on experience and operational demand.

The Manufacturing Electrician is responsible for installing, wiring, testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning electrical systems and components used in the assembly of rail maintenance and construction equipment. This role supports production operations by ensuring all electrical work meets safety, quality, and performance standards. The Manufacturing Electrician plays a critical role in delivering reliable, customer-ready equipment.

Primary Responsibilities

• Install, route, terminate, and secure electrical wiring, harnesses, panels, and components on heavy manufacturing equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, blueprints, and technical specifications.
• Perform functional testing of electrical systems including power distribution, control systems, sensors, and PLC-connected components.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical faults using appropriate tools and testing equipment.
• Ensure all installations comply with company standards, NEC requirements (as applicable), and internal quality procedures.
• Document testing results, modifications, and updates to wiring or system configurations.
• Support final system commissioning prior to equipment shipment.
• Identify and escalate design or wiring inconsistencies to engineering and supervision.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area in accordance with 5S and safety guidelines.
• Adhere to all safety protocols including lockout/tagout procedures and required PPE usage.
• Support cross-functional teams to meet production schedules and delivery timelines.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to improve safety, quality, and efficiency.

I. Basic Qualifications (Required)

• High school diploma or GED
• 3+ years of electrical experience in manufacturing, industrial, heavy equipment, or related environment
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
• Experience using electrical testing equipment (multimeters, megger, etc.)
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team-based production environment

II. Preferred Qualifications

• Technical certification in Industrial Electrical Technology or related trade
• Experience with PLC-controlled systems
• Experience in heavy equipment, rail, or industrial machinery manufacturing
• Familiarity with low-voltage control systems and power distribution systems

III. Core Competencies

• Electrical Systems Knowledge
• Technical Troubleshooting
• Quality Focus
• Safety Mindset
• Attention to Detail
• Team Collaboration
• Accountability & Reliability

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in a manufacturing and/or warehouse environment with exposure to noise, moving equipment, and varying temperatures.
• Requires standing, walking, bending, and reaching for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 40lbs
• Use of required personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory.

Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required.

We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or genetics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

If you have a difficulty applying for any job posted on Harsco Rail’s website because a disability prevents you from using the online system, Harsco Rail offers the following alternate application procedure: Contact Matthew Fink, HR Director NAOM, at 803-822-7440 and Harsco Rail will arrange for an alternate method of applying and will consider your application together with all other applications received for the job.  Please call only for disability application. All of your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.