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Compressor Operator Jobs in Pittsburgh, PA (NOW HIRING)

May start, stop or adjust compressor. * Occasionally may operate crane as required to charge ingots in furnaces. Occasionally may make miscellaneous lifts as required on non-operating turns.

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Compressor Operator information

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$22

$24

$26

How much do compressor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for compressor operator in Pittsburgh, PA is $24.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.61 and $25.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a compressor operator?

Compressor operators are skilled workers responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining compressors used in industrial settings, such as oil and gas facilities, manufacturing plants, or refrigeration systems. Their main duties include starting and stopping compressors, adjusting controls to regulate pressure and flow, performing routine inspections, and troubleshooting issues to ensure safe and efficient equipment operation. They also keep records of equipment performance and maintenance activities, and may assist with repairs or coordinate with maintenance teams. Compressor operators play a crucial role in ensuring continuous and reliable operation of machinery that relies on compressed gases or air.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a compressor operator?

To thrive as a Compressor Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, equipment maintenance, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant vocational training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pressure gauges, and standard operating procedures is typically required, and certifications like HAZWOPER or OSHA may be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for responding quickly to operational issues and coordinating with team members. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable compressor station operations in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges compressor operators face in maintaining equipment efficiency, and how are these typically addressed?

Compressor Operators often encounter challenges such as equipment overheating, pressure fluctuations, and unplanned shutdowns, which can disrupt operations. Addressing these issues typically involves regular monitoring of gauges and sensors, adhering to preventive maintenance schedules, and promptly reporting or troubleshooting any irregularities. Operators also collaborate closely with maintenance teams to ensure quick resolution of mechanical problems and participate in ongoing training to stay updated on new diagnostic tools and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Compressor Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectCompressor OperatorPump Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certifications in compressor systemsHigh school diploma, certifications in pump operation
Work EnvironmentRefineries, natural gas plants, manufacturing facilitiesWater treatment plants, oil & gas facilities, industrial sites
Industry UsageOil & gas, manufacturing, energy productionOil & gas, water management, chemical processing

Compressor Operators and Pump Operators often work in similar industrial environments, requiring related certifications and skills. While Compressor Operators focus on managing compressor systems to control gases or air, Pump Operators handle fluid movement through pumps. Both roles are essential in industries like oil & gas and manufacturing, but they specialize in different equipment and processes.

How do you become a compressor operator?

To become a compressor operator, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical school related to industrial equipment or process operations. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the industry and location, and familiarity with machinery, safety procedures, and maintenance is essential.

What job categories do people searching Compressor Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Compressor Operator jobs in Pittsburgh, PA are:

Infographic showing various Compressor Operator job openings in Pittsburgh, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,393 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Industrial Electrician

UES

Burgettstown, PA โ€ข On-site

$28.51/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Description:

Union Electric Steel Corporation is seeking INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIANS for our Burgettstown, PA manufacturing plant. This is an hourly position in a unionized setting and applicants must be willing to work rotating shifts and weekends, as required.

Applicant Must: Successfully complete a maintenance skills examination provided by Ramsey or similar. Demonstrate a minimum of three years professional repair and troubleshooting experience or a similar combination of education and experience.

Primary Function: To inspect, repair, replace, install, wire, adjust and maintain all electrical equipment in the plant. Makes mechanical repairs to cranes, and as otherwise required in connection with electrical service.

Tools and Equipment: Drill press, power saw, chain fall, burning equipment, portable drill and grinder, safety devices, miscellaneous electrical testing equipment and hand tools, pipe benders, soldering equipment, etc.

Materials: AC and DC equipment, such as electric furnace, cranes, manipulator, motors, generators, controls, switches, circuit breakers, transformer, control panels, lighting circuits, wire, tape, insulation, repair parts, control circuits, conduit, fittings, etc.


Working Procedures:

  • Receives instructions, wiring diagrams, specifications, etc., covering the scheduled and emergency repair, installation and inspection work to be done. Answers signal for electrical maintenance.
  • Inspects all electrical equipment in the plant, checking motor bearings, lubrication, commutation, excessive vibration, obvious signs of wear or need for adjustment, etc. When faulty operation is observed or pointed out by operating crews, diagnose trouble using testing equipment or own judgment based on general knowledge of electrical principles. Perform work on "hot” lines as required.
  • Determines the best way of making repairs to minimize interruption of production.
  • Advises when immediate shutdown of equipment is necessary to minimize damage, or when temporarily continued operation will have no harmful effect.
  • Interpret and analyze drawings and wiring diagrams to locate and trace electrical circuits, to determine material and replacement needs, and to select a logical approach to "trouble shooting" and repair problems.
  • Dismantles, cleans, repairs, replaces, installs, maintains, assembles and lubricates electrical equipment taking all safety precautions.
  • Adjusts equipment to obtain proper operating characteristics.
  • Makes either temporary or permanent repairs as required to equipment, such as main motor drives, generators, control panels, relays, interlocking control systems, electronic devices and circuit breakers.
  • Makes mechanical and electrical repairs on cranes. Makes mechanical repairs as required in connection with the servicing of electrical equipment.
  • Erects scaffolds and performs simple rigging as required.
  • Operates small machine tools, such as drill press, power saw, etc.
  • Check air compressor for proper operation. May start, stop or adjust compressor.
  • Occasionally may operate crane as required to charge ingots in furnaces. Occasionally may make miscellaneous lifts as required on non-operating turns.
  • Maintains clean and orderly working area.
  • May make emergency, minor mechanical repairs in the absence of other maintenance personnel.
  • Installs, splices or replaces sections of wire incidental to repair or temporary installation.
  • May as required install conduit, fittings, switches, controls, fixtures, and connect and adjust electrical equipment for new installation or replacement of facilities, etc., or perform other related craft job duties as directed.

The above statement reflects the general details considered necessary to describe the principal functions of the job identified, and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all of the work requirements that may be inherent in the job.
Competitive Wage, Medical, Dental, 401k
Equal Employment Opportunities will be given to all applicants regardless of their race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, non-job related physical or mental disability or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
Voluntary Self Identification of Race, Gender, Protected Veteran Status, and Disability
Pre-employment physical, background check and drug screening for all new hires

Requirements: