Top 10 Questions for Subway Car Repairer Interview

1. What are the different types of subway car doors and how do you maintain them?

• Plug-type doors: These doors are used on older subway cars and are opened by pulling a lever or pressing a button. They require regular maintenance to ensure that the seals are intact and that the door opens and closes smoothly.
• Sliding doors: These doors are used on newer subway cars and are opened by pressing a button. They require less maintenance than plug-type doors, but it is important to ensure that the tracks are clean and well-lubricated.

2. What are the different types of subway car brakes and how do you inspect them?

Disc brakes

• Inspect the brake pads for wear and replace them if necessary.
• Inspect the brake rotors for damage and replace them if necessary.
• Inspect the brake fluid level and add fluid if necessary.

Drum brakes

• Inspect the brake shoes for wear and replace them if necessary.
• Inspect the brake drums for damage and replace them if necessary.
• Inspect the brake fluid level and add fluid if necessary.

3. What are the different types of subway car air conditioning systems and how do you troubleshoot them?

• Rooftop air conditioning units: These units are located on the roof of the subway car and provide cooling and heating to the passenger compartment. Troubleshooting these units typically involves checking the refrigerant levels, the electrical connections, and the thermostat.
• Under-car air conditioning units: These units are located under the subway car and provide cooling and heating to the passenger compartment. Troubleshooting these units typically involves checking the refrigerant levels, the electrical connections, and the thermostat.

4. What are the different types of subway car electrical systems and how do you troubleshoot them?

• DC electrical systems: These systems are used on older subway cars and provide power to the lights, fans, and other electrical devices. Troubleshooting these systems typically involves checking the battery, the alternator, and the wiring.
• AC electrical systems: These systems are used on newer subway cars and provide power to the lights, fans, and other electrical devices. Troubleshooting these systems typically involves checking the inverter, the transformer, and the wiring.

5. What are the different types of subway car propulsion systems and how do you troubleshoot them?

• DC propulsion systems: These systems are used on older subway cars and provide power to the wheels. Troubleshooting these systems typically involves checking the motor, the controller, and the wiring.
• AC propulsion systems: These systems are used on newer subway cars and provide power to the wheels. Troubleshooting these systems typically involves checking the inverter, the motor, and the wiring.

6. What are the different types of subway car safety systems and how do you test them?

• Fire detection systems: These systems are designed to detect fires in the subway car and activate the fire suppression system. Testing these systems typically involves simulating a fire and checking that the system activates correctly.
• Smoke detection systems: These systems are designed to detect smoke in the subway car and activate the ventilation system. Testing these systems typically involves simulating smoke and checking that the system activates correctly.
• Emergency lighting systems: These systems are designed to provide lighting in the subway car in the event of a power failure. Testing these systems typically involves turning off the main power and checking that the emergency lights activate correctly.

7. What are the different types of subway car communication systems and how do you troubleshoot them?

• Public address systems: These systems are used to make announcements to passengers. Troubleshooting these systems typically involves checking the microphone, the speakers, and the wiring.
• Two-way radio systems: These systems are used for communication between the train operator and the control center. Troubleshooting these systems typically involves checking the radio, the antenna, and the wiring.

8. What are the different types of subway car diagnostic systems and how do you use them?

• On-board diagnostic systems: These systems are used to monitor the performance of the subway car and identify any problems. They typically provide real-time data on the car’s systems, such as the brakes, the electrical system, and the propulsion system.
• Handheld diagnostic systems: These systems are used to diagnose problems with the subway car. They typically connect to the car’s computer and provide detailed information on the car’s systems.

9. What are the different types of subway car maintenance schedules and how do you follow them?

• Daily maintenance: This maintenance is performed on a daily basis and typically involves checking the fluid levels, inspecting the brakes, and testing the safety systems.
• Weekly maintenance: This maintenance is performed on a weekly basis and typically involves cleaning the car, inspecting the electrical system, and lubricating the moving parts.
• Monthly maintenance: This maintenance is performed on a monthly basis and typically involves more detailed inspections of the car, such as checking the brakes, the electrical system, and the propulsion system.
• Annual maintenance: This maintenance is performed on an annual basis and typically involves a complete inspection of the car, including the body, the interior, and the mechanical systems.

10. What are the different types of subway car safety regulations and how do you comply with them?

• Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) regulations: These regulations are set by the FRA and govern the safety of subway cars. They cover a wide range of topics, including the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of subway cars.
• Local regulations: These regulations are set by local governments and may vary from state to state. They typically cover topics such as the inspection and maintenance of subway cars.

As a Subway Car Repairer, you will be responsible for maintaining and repairing subway cars to ensure their safe and efficient operation.

1. Troubleshooting and Repair

You will be required to troubleshoot and repair various electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems on subway cars.

• Diagnose and repair electrical systems, such as lighting, power distribution, and control circuits.
• Maintain and repair mechanical systems, including brakes, doors, and propulsion systems.

2. Inspection and Maintenance

You will perform regular inspections and maintenance checks to identify and prevent potential issues.

• Conduct daily inspections of subway cars to ensure they meet safety and operational standards.
• Perform scheduled maintenance tasks, such as lubrication, cleaning, and replacement of worn components.

3. Safety and Regulatory Compliance

You must adhere to strict safety protocols and regulatory requirements.

• Follow established safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Comply with all applicable industry standards and regulations, including those related to electrical safety and hazardous materials handling.

4. Customer Service

You may interact with passengers and colleagues, providing assistance and resolving issues.

• Communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and passengers.
• Respond to emergencies and provide assistance to passengers in a professional and courteous manner.

Preparing thoroughly for your interview can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you ace the interview:

1. Research the Company and Role

Take the time to learn about the subway system you are applying to work for. Get to know their mission, values, and the specific subway car repairer role you are applying for.

• Visit the company website, read industry news articles, and check social media platforms.
• Identify the skills and experience required for the role and tailor your resume and cover letter accordingly.

2. Practice Your Answers

Prepare thoughtful and concise answers to common interview questions. Practice answering them out loud to build confidence and improve your delivery.

• Review common interview questions and prepare specific examples that showcase your skills and experience.
• Consider using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

3. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

Emphasize the relevant skills and experience that make you a suitable candidate for the subway car repairer role.

• Quantify your accomplishments with specific numbers and metrics.
• Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and achievements.

4. Be Enthusiastic and Professional

During the interview, demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and the subway system. Maintain a professional demeanor and convey your commitment to safety and excellence.

• Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be polite to everyone you meet.
• Ask thoughtful questions to show your interest and engagement.