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Compressor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rinvio

Laborer / Compressor Operator

Oxnard, CA

$28 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Rinvio is hiring Laborer / Compressor Operator candidates for full-time concrete cutting support work across Oxnard, Sylmar, and surrounding Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura County areas. Lead ...

Bedrock

Midstream Operator

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $24.75/hr

You will lead the operation of compressor stations, oversee equipment performance, and coordinate minor maintenance and repairs. Your responsibilities include analyzing SCADA data and field ...

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All JobsCompressor JobsCompressor Jobs in California

Compressor information

See California salary details

$15

$30

$46

How much do compressor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for compressor in California is $30.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $38.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the main job of a compressor?

A compressor's main job is to increase the pressure of gases or air by reducing their volume, often for use in machinery, HVAC systems, or manufacturing processes. They operate using various mechanisms such as reciprocating, rotary, or centrifugal methods and require technical skills and safety knowledge. Proper maintenance and understanding of pressure systems are essential for effective operation.

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 operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pressure gauges, and maintenance management software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation and maintenance of compressor equipment, which is critical for minimizing downtime and ensuring workplace safety.

What are some common challenges a compressor operator might face on the job, and how can they be addressed?

Compressor Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal equipment performance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Working in environments that may be noisy or require shift work can also be demanding. To address these challenges, operators should stay proactive with preventative maintenance, participate in ongoing training, and communicate closely with maintenance and safety teams. Building strong problem-solving skills and keeping up-to-date with operational procedures will also help ensure smooth workflow and minimize downtime.

What is a compressor?

Compressors are mechanical devices that increase the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. They are commonly used in a wide variety of industries, including HVAC, refrigeration, manufacturing, and automotive, to move air or gas through systems efficiently. Compressors play a crucial role in applications like powering pneumatic tools, refrigeration cycles, and even in engines. There are several types of compressors, such as reciprocating, rotary, and centrifugal, each suited for different tasks depending on the pressure and volume requirements.

What does a compressor operator do?

A compressor operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling industrial compressors to ensure efficient operation and safety. They perform routine inspections, adjust controls, troubleshoot issues, and maintain equipment, often working with gauges, valves, and control systems. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are typically required for this role.

What is the difference between Compressor vs HVAC Technician?

AspectCompressorHVAC Technician
CertificationsRefrigeration, HVAC certifications, EPA 608HVAC certifications, EPA 608, EPA 609
Work EnvironmentIndustrial, manufacturing, refrigeration systemsResidential, commercial heating and cooling systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, refrigeration, HVAC systemsHeating, ventilation, air conditioning services
Job FocusMaintaining and repairing compressors and refrigeration unitsInstalling, repairing, and maintaining HVAC systems

While both Compressor technicians and HVAC Technicians work with heating and cooling systems, compressors primarily focus on maintaining and repairing compressors and refrigeration units, often in industrial or manufacturing settings. HVAC Technicians handle a broader range of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in residential and commercial environments. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and certifications.

What cities in California are hiring for Compressor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Compressor job openings:

Compressor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compressor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,598 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Compressor Mechanic II-San Diego,California

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Bonita, CA

$26.26 - $32.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is seeking a full time Compressor Mechanic II in San Diego, CA.
Summary:
This position will provide support for recurring assessments and repair of Compressed Air Systems.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Provide troubleshooting, assessment, mechanical repairs and testing of U.S. Navy ship air compressors onboard ships and in the shop. Support personnel shall conduct removal, repairs, overhaul, installation, alignment, troubleshooting, modifying, and testing of ships' compressed air mechanical systems, equipment, and components to include:
Works on low pressure air compressors (LPACs), medium pressure air compressors (MPACs), and high pressure air compressors (HPACs)
Works on Emergency Breathing Air Compressors (EBACs), Self-Contained Breathing Air Compressors, and weapons systems high pressure air compressors
Works on air flasks and air dehydrators
Utilizes manifold gauges, vacuum pumps, recovery equipment, micro gauges, torque wrenches, micrometers, dial indicators and other precision measuring instruments, fixtures, various gauges, and portable machine and hand tools in the removal, repair, overhaul, assembly, installation and testing of equipment components and subassemblies.
Performs air end swap-outs on Dresser Rand (DR), NAXI, and RIX LPACs including the STAR 200 series.
Performs compressor alignments using Rotoalign laser alignment optics and reverse indicator methods.
Rebuilds or replaces compressor service system valves.
Cleans, inspects, and performs repairs/overhauls on mechanical components and system subassemblies.
Disassembles, cleans, inspects and assesses parts and components to determine the extent of wear and damage in justification of recommendations to the Government for reuse or disposal.
Identifies equipment and component materials and parts requirements.
Protects machined and critical surfaces during removal.
Installs foreign material exclusion (FME) coverings on all openings. Identify, tag and inspect piping systems, connections, foundations, fasteners and other parts for reinstallation or replacement.
Follows guidelines and procedures set forth in FWPs.
Reads, and understands system equipment technical manuals; drawings; and blueprints.
Troubleshoots and repairs air compressor systems, equipment and components.
Fabricates and brazes tubing, fittings, gauge lines, and cooler connections
Operates vehicles in conjunction with job duties
Required Qualifications:
High School Diploma or equivalent
Minimum 4 years' experience in compressed air systems maintenance and repair
Ability to obtain and maintain a DBIDs credential and base access
Possess a valid driver license
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with both low, medium & high pressure compressed air systems
Grade 3 and Grade 5 brazing qualifications
Pay Range:
The pay range for this role is $26.26 - $32.53 Hourly. This is a reasonable estimate for this role. Individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience
ADA Notations:
Must be able to lift, carry and transport heavy equipment and boxes up to 50 lbs
Ability to work on and climb ladders, work in extreme temperature environments, aboard ships, in shipyards, under industrial conditions and in confined spaces
Ability to perform other duties as required which may involve high heat, humidity, noise and dirty conditions, working aloft or over the sides of vessels
Ability to wear a face mask while working
May ride ships at sea for extended periods
Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

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