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Compressor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DXP Enterprises, Inc.

Applications Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cisco Air Systems is the largest air compressor distributor in the region and largest Ingersoll Rand distributor in the United States. Come join our growing team! Responsibilities of the Applications ...

804 Technology

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer will carry out engineering assignments concerned with the planning, design and testing of rotating machinery (fans, pump and compressor) with rotating speeds up to 24,000 rpm.

Tcenergy

Pipeline Technician

Pleasant Hill, CA

Support organizing and maintaining compressor stations, including housekeeping, site cleanliness, yard organization, material storage, and general station upkeep. * Assist various trades and support ...

California Bioenergy LLC

Biogas PM Mechanic

Tulare, CA · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Ensure all compressor preventive maintenance requirements are captured in CMMS and can be scheduled on periodic schedule. Ensure all E-maintenance work orders are completed properly and on time ...

FTAI Aviation LLC

Technician

Orange, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

JOB OVERVIEW In this role a highly skilled and detail-oriented specialist will be working in our aviation repair station, focusing on High Pressure Compressor (HPC) blades for commercial jet ...

Astro Mechanica

Senior Turbomachinery Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Utilize propulsion cycle models (GasTurb, NPSS) to assess how compressor maps and mechanical behavior interact under dynamic loading conditions * Define GD&T for rotating assemblies through tolerance ...

Astro Mechanica

Senior Rotordynamics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150K - $225K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Utilize propulsion cycle models (GasTurb, NPSS) to assess how compressor maps and mechanical behavior interact under dynamic loading conditions * Define GD&T for rotating assemblies through tolerance ...

Garrett Motion

Turbomachinery Development Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$134K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Design, test and qualify the next generation of compressor and turbine aerodynamics for integration in the CV portfolio, using state-of-the-art analytical (CFD/FEA) and experimental (Test Rigs) tools ...

Garrett Motion

System Expert E-Cooling

Torrance, CA · On-site

$157K - $255K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Multi-compressor architectures and sequencing strategies. * Cascade and hybrid systems. * Start-up behavior, transient operation, and system dynamics. * Provide deep expertise in: * HVAC system ...

Garrett Motion

HVAC System Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Own the requirements and specifications of the HVAC products like the centrifugal refrigerant compressor including the variable frequency drive. * Interface with customers and suppliers for system ...

Garrett Motion

HVAC System Engineer

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Own the requirements and specifications of the HVAC products like the centrifugal refrigerant compressor including the variable frequency drive. * Interface with customers and suppliers for system ...

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Showing results 41-60

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.

Process Controls Engineer (Gas Compressors)

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

83rd of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Career Area:
Job Description:
Your Work Shapes the World at Caterpillar Inc.
When you join Caterpillar, you're joining a global team who cares not just about the work we do - but also about each other. We are the makers, problem solvers, and future world builders who are creating stronger, more sustainable communities. We don't just talk about progress and innovation here - we make it happen, with our customers, where we work and live. Together, we are building a better world, so we can all enjoy living in it.
The Process Control Engineer at Solar Turbines is responsible for developing and implementing the control system design for Balance of Plant equipment, compressor anti-surge valve sizing and system design, and developing process control schemes for Solar's gas turbine and electric motor-driven compressor sets. This position interfaces with Solar's Business Development and Business Management teams, and directly with customers to lead the implementation of customer requirements in collaboration with a project design engineering team. This position requires providing technical support to Business Management during customer meetings, design reviews and Hazard & Operability Study (HAZOP) discussions, which requires the ability to travel to domestic and international customer locations.
Responsibilities for this position may include but are not limited to:
  • Develop and document control strategies of balance of plant equipment and process control for gas turbine- and electric motor-driven compressors
  • Develop and document compressor anti-surge valve sizing and system design specifications
  • Lead Balance of Plant Design Reviews with Solar cross-functional engineering team
  • Provide technical expertise during design review meetings with customers
  • Design RSLogix PLC software and HMI screens related to controlling balance of plant equipment
  • Up to 30% business travel

What You Need To Have:
Educational background
  • Bachelors Degree in Engineering

Technical Excellence
  • Minimum seven (7) years of experience working with turbomachinery and centrifugal compressors
  • Demonstrated ability to quickly master complex systems and tools

Effective Communication
  • Clearly articulates orally and in writing with the ability to translate technical issues and requirements to customers and stakeholders+

Top Candidates Will Have:
Technical Excellence
  • Understanding of PLC programming in RSLogix and Windows-based HMI systems
  • Understanding of typical compressor applications in the oil & gas industry
  • Deep knowledge of turbomachinery and centrifugal compressor process control systems
  • Experience with compressor balance of plant equipment and yard valve control programming
  • Experience interpreting electrical schematics and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID)
  • Experience with customer applications utilizing turbomachinery
  • Experience with testing software
  • Experience in developing functional specification for balance of plant equipment

Working with Others
  • Field experience
  • Direct experience working with Customers
  • Works collaboratively with cross-functional teams

Relocation:
Domestic relocation assistance may be offered.
Summary Pay Range:
$128,470.00 - $171,00.00
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Caterpillar.
Benefits:
Subject to plan eligibility, terms, and guidelines. This is a summary list of benefits.
  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits*
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holidays, Volunteer, etc.)*
  • 401(k) savings plans*
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)*
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)*
  • Health Lifestyle Programs*
  • Employee Assistance Program*
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts*
  • Career Development*
  • Incentive bonus*
  • Disability benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Adoption benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement

* These benefits also apply to part-time employees
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
#LI42570
#Engineering #controlsengineering
This position requires working onsite five days a week.
Relocation is available for this position.
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Posting Dates:
Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen.
Caterpillar is an Equal Opportunity Employer, Including Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities. Qualified applicants of any age are encouraged to apply.
Not ready to apply? Join our Talent Community.

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