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Gas Compression Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Compression Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

Specific knowledge in natural gas compression equipment and the mechanical design of gas ... compression equipment (including reciprocating engines, gas turbines, electric motor drives ...

Experience with gas compression applications and their unique challenges. * Experience designing non-metallic sealing and bearing components, including rod packing, wear bands, piston rings, valve ...

The Compressor Operator will manage natural gas compression equipment, conduct routine inspections, perform maintenance, and ensure compliance with safety protocols while maintaining accurate ...

Familiar with gas compression and/or gas transportation * Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and instrument control systems including equipment such as motors, blowers, controls, and pumps Physical ...

... gas compression and/or gas transportation Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and instrument control systems including equipment such as motors, blowers, controls, and pumps Physical Demands ...

Familiar with gas compression and/or gas transportation * Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and instrument control systems including equipment such as motors, blowers, controls, and pumps Physical ...

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Gas Compression information

See Houston, TX salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do gas compression jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for gas compression in Houston, TX is $22.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Gas Compression vs Gas Plant Operator?

AspectGas CompressionGas Plant Operator
Primary RoleOperate and maintain gas compression equipment to increase gas pressure for transportationOversee entire gas processing plant operations, including compression, separation, and treatment
CertificationsTypically requires technical certifications in equipment operation and safetyRequires certifications in plant operations, safety, and sometimes specific process technologies
Work EnvironmentField sites, compressor stations, outdoor environmentsGas processing plants, control rooms, outdoor and indoor facilities
Industry UsageCommonly found in natural gas transportation and pipeline companiesFound in natural gas processing and distribution companies

Gas Compression specialists focus on operating and maintaining compression equipment to facilitate gas transportation. Gas Plant Operators oversee entire processing facilities, including compression, separation, and treatment processes. While both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in gas compression roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in gas compression often encounter challenges such as managing equipment reliability, ensuring safety compliance, and troubleshooting mechanical or process issues. Frequent equipment maintenance and monitoring are essential to prevent downtime and maintain optimal performance. Collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams is critical for effective problem-solving and ensuring that safety and environmental regulations are met. Ongoing training and staying updated with the latest industry standards can help address these challenges and support career advancement.

What is a gas compression job?

Gas compression jobs involve operating, maintaining, and repairing equipment that compresses natural gas for transportation through pipelines. Workers in this field may work as technicians, mechanics, or operators, ensuring that gas compressors function efficiently and safely. These roles are critical in the oil and gas industry to help move natural gas from production sites to processing plants and ultimately to consumers. Typical responsibilities include monitoring equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and adhering to safety regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a gas compression technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Gas Compression Technician, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, engine and compressor operations, and typically a technical diploma or relevant industry certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), vibration analysis tools, and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help technicians excel in troubleshooting and teamwork. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of gas compression equipment in energy and industrial settings.
What job categories do people searching Gas Compression jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Gas Compression jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Gas Compression jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Gas Compression job openings:
Infographic showing various Gas Compression job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,556 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Compression Engineer

Kinder Morgan

Houston, TX • On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Kinder Morgan rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

What We Are Looking For
The Compression Engineer position requires a working knowledge in the selection and sizing of compression equipment and ancillary equipment for transportation and storage of natural gas. The individual selected for this position must have a working knowledge of 49 CFR Part 192 and ASME B31.8.
A compression engineer is required to interact with various groups within Kinder Morgan as well as with equipment manufacturers, suppliers and outside engineering firms and must behave in a professional manner consistent with Kinder Morgan's core values. This individual must be able to communicate in a clear and concise manner both verbally and in writing.
Primary Purpose
  • Develop technical scopes of work and equipment bid specifications, evaluate equipment proposals, provide engineering support for compression projects, troubleshoot equipment issues, assess new technologies, and support the FERC filing process.
  • Size and select compression equipment based on provided operating conditions to optimize performance and long-term reliability.
  • Provide technical oversight in the design of fuel gas systems, air compressor packages, generator packages, ESD systems, filtration, gas cooling, recycle, etc.
  • Establish vendor relationships as applies to compression equipment and ancillary systems.
  • Develop and maintain company engineering standards and material specifications.
  • Apply the company's design and operating philosophy to meet corporate goals for safety, regulatory compliance, efficiency, and profitability.
  • Provide engineering support to Field Operations, EHS, Project Management, Business Development, System Design, Gas Control, Regulatory, Compliance, and other internal departments.
  • Develop project scope documents, schedules, contractor bid documents, manage the bid process including job showing, recommend contractor, and manage contractor activities.
  • Work with Operations, EHS, Project Management, Business Development, Gas Control, and other internal departments to maintain and improve the integrity of the company's compression infrastructure through evaluations, risk assessments, project development/implementation, etc.

What You Will Do
Position Requirements
  • Minimum of five years practical experience (post degree) in the design and technical analysis of high pressure natural gas compressor systems.
  • Understanding of core thermodynamic principles.
  • Specific knowledge in natural gas compression equipment and the mechanical design of gas compression equipment (including reciprocating engines, gas turbines, electric motor drives, reciprocating compressors, and centrifugal compressors).
  • Experience with vendor-supplied software for compressor sizing preferred.
  • Working knowledge of compressor station layout and the design of all components associated with the compression process.
  • Working knowledge of all applicable industry codes and standards, including 49 CFR Part 192, ASME, API, NACE, NEC, OSHA, etc.
  • Proficiency with Word and Excel.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical, civil/structural, and electrical schematics and drawings.
  • Ability to complete work assignments with little supervision in an acceptable time frame.
  • Ability to effectively prioritize workload between multiple projects.
  • Must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Must maintain a regular, dependable attendance and high level of performance.
  • Must be able to work with a team, take direction from supervisors, keep required work schedules, focus attention on details, employ safe work practices, and follow work rules.
  • Must be able and willing to travel (with overnight stays) as required to field sites and other offices. Travel is estimated at 20 to 40%.
  • Must have effective written and oral communication skills.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record acceptable for company insurance policy.

Education Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from an accredited University.
  • Ten years commensurate experience with emphasis in compressor station equipment mechanical design and operation, project management, and technical analysis as described, with a two-year associate degree in a technical discipline may be considered.

*Position may be filled at various levels depending on experience and job skills of the successful candidate
Kinder Morgan, Inc. offers employees a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits offered for this position may include the following: health care benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage; Flexible and Health Spending Accounts; Life and Accidental Death and Disability insurance; Supplemental Life and Accidental Death and Disability insurance for employee and dependents; retirement benefits including a 401(k) with employer and employee contributions and a company-funded pension plan; paid time off; paid parental bonding leave; paid holidays; a flexible work schedule and many voluntary benefit plans.
What You Need
Position Requirements
  • Minimum of five years practical experience (post degree) in the design and technical analysis of high pressure natural gas compressor systems.
  • Understanding of core thermodynamic principles.
  • Specific knowledge in natural gas compression equipment and the mechanical design of gas compression equipment (including reciprocating engines, gas turbines, electric motor drives, reciprocating compressors, and centrifugal compressors).
  • Experience with vendor-supplied software for compressor sizing preferred.
  • Working knowledge of compressor station layout and the design of all components associated with the compression process.
  • Working knowledge of all applicable industry codes and standards, including 49 CFR Part 192, ASME, API, NACE, NEC, OSHA, etc.
  • Proficiency with Word and Excel.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical, civil/structural, and electrical schematics and drawings.
  • Ability to complete work assignments with little supervision in an acceptable time frame.
  • Ability to effectively prioritize workload between multiple projects.
  • Must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Must maintain a regular, dependable attendance and high level of performance.
  • Must be able to work with a team, take direction from supervisors, keep required work schedules, focus attention on details, employ safe work practices, and follow work rules.
  • Must be able and willing to travel (with overnight stays) as required to field sites and other offices. Travel is estimated at 20 to 40%.
  • Must have effective written and oral communication skills.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record acceptable for company insurance policy.

Education Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from an accredited University.
  • Ten years commensurate experience with emphasis in compressor station equipment mechanical design and operation, project management, and technical analysis as described, with a two-year associate degree in a technical discipline may be considered.

*Position may be filled at various levels depending on experience and job skills of the successful candidate
Kinder Morgan, Inc. offers employees a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits offered for this position may include the following: health care benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage; Flexible and Health Spending Accounts; Life and Accidental Death and Disability insurance; Supplemental Life and Accidental Death and Disability insurance for employee and dependents; retirement benefits including a 401(k) with employer and employee contributions and a company-funded pension plan; paid time off; paid parental bonding leave; paid holidays; a flexible work schedule and many voluntary benefit plans.
Why Join Kinder Morgan
Kinder Morgan is a large energy infrastructure company operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. We are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities, and businesses we serve.
Kinder Morgan provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, family status, status as an individual authorized to work in the U.S., or any other status protected by law.
For more information about Kinder Morgan, our culture, opportunities available, and to join our Talent Community, please visit our careers site at www.kindermorgan.com.

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About Kinder Morgan

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kinder Morgan is moving the fuels of today for the energy of the future. From the natural gas that heats your home to the gasoline that fuels your vehicle, our pipeline and terminal assets provide the necessary infrastructure to meet today's growing global energy demand and play a key role in the low-carbon energy transition of the future.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1997

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