1

Gas Compressor Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Biogas PM Mechanic

Tulare, CA · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Biogas PM Mechanic works with gas compression equipment to transfer, compress and recover different types of gases. Responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and assisting Biogas Compressor ...

A&P Mechanic

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

A&P Mechanic for turbine compressor washes. Responsible for performing gas path cleaning process of commercial and military turbine engines using Lufthansa proprietary equipment. Must have Valid A&P ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Gas Compressor Mechanic information

See California salary details

$5

$26

$37

How much do gas compressor mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for gas compressor mechanic in California is $26.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a gas compressor mechanic?

Gas compressor mechanics are skilled technicians who install, maintain, and repair gas compressors and related equipment used in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and utilities. Their work involves diagnosing mechanical problems, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring compressors operate safely and efficiently. They may work on various types of compressors, including reciprocating, rotary, and centrifugal models, and must be knowledgeable about mechanical, electrical, and sometimes electronic systems. Safety is a significant aspect of their job, as they often work with high-pressure gases and complex machinery.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a gas compressor mechanic?

To thrive as a Gas Compressor Mechanic, you need strong mechanical aptitude, understanding of gas compressor systems, and typically a relevant technical diploma or apprenticeship. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, vibration analyzers, and maintenance management systems is commonly required, along with certifications such as OSHA safety training. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure reliable equipment operation, minimize downtime, and maintain workplace safety in industrial environments.

What challenges do gas compressor mechanics face in troubleshooting equipment?

Gas Compressor Mechanics often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical or electrical faults that may not have obvious symptoms. Working in high-pressure environments, they must carefully follow safety protocols while inspecting and repairing equipment. Additionally, they sometimes need to respond quickly to unexpected breakdowns, which requires thorough knowledge of various compressor models and strong problem-solving skills. Team collaboration with operators and engineers is essential to identify root causes and implement effective solutions.

What is the difference between Gas Compressor Mechanic vs Gas Plant Technician?

AspectGas Compressor MechanicGas Plant Technician
CertificationsHVAC, mechanical, or specialized compressor certificationsProcess technology, instrumentation, or plant operation certifications
Work EnvironmentRefineries, natural gas processing plants, industrial sitesGas processing facilities, pipelines, and plant operations
Job FocusMaintaining and repairing gas compressors and related equipmentMonitoring plant operations, troubleshooting, and ensuring safety

Gas Compressor Mechanics primarily focus on maintaining and repairing gas compressors, requiring mechanical skills and specialized certifications. Gas Plant Technicians oversee overall plant operations, including monitoring systems and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in the natural gas industry but differ in scope and daily tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Gas Compressor Mechanic jobs in California?

For Gas Compressor Mechanic jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Gas Compressor Mechanic jobs?

Cities in California with the most Gas Compressor Mechanic job openings:

Infographic showing various Gas Compressor Mechanic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,061 per year, or $27 per hour.

2027 Gas Compressor Intern

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$26 - $43/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

84th of 494 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.
2027 Gas Compressor Engineering Internship
Gas Compressor Engineering Internship positions are designed to provide students with challenging projects that play a key role in gas compressor product design and development activities. Our organization is comprised of several diverse engineering functions including:
  • Aerodynamics
  • Rotordynamics
  • Mechanical and Electrical Analysis
  • Mechanical Design
  • Manufacturing and Quality Engineering
  • Product Management

Under the guidance of a mentor, interns are given a meaningful work experience, a project assignment to complete, and the opportunity to apply classroom education to real work situations.
Responsibilities may include analytical simulations (FEA, CFD, amongst others), performance analysis, research of advanced technologies, support of the development or execution process, and development of design or process support tools. The job role may also include hands-on manufacturing support, full-scale compressor and/or scaled component testing, instrumentation, data processing and support of project execution. Gas Compressor Engineering is a multifunction organization with many opportunities to collaborate across teams to introduce or improve the products that power our world's infrastructure.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Currently in the process of obtaining a 4 year or advanced degree in Engineering or other relevant degree.
  • Classified by your school as a Sophomore, Junior, Senior planning to attend graduate school, or currently attending graduate school.
  • Overall GPA of at least 2.8 on a 4.0 scale.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous co-op or Internship experience.
  • Problem solving skills.
  • High energy level and sense of urgency.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Good business / technical judgment.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities for a variety of tasks.

Summary Pay Range:
$26.00 - $43.00
Intern Hourly Rate:
An intern's hourly rate is based on the major/degree being pursued and the number of completed academic hours achieved before the start of the internship.
Intern Benefits:
The total rewards package, beyond base salary, may include if eligible:
  • Accrued Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Volunteer Day
  • Housing Stipend
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Medical coverage
  • Voluntary benefits

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:
July 23, 2026 - December 30, 2026
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.

What Solar Turbines employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom