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Gas Compressor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VOLT

Quality Test Technician - Turbine Engines

San Diego, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

As a Gas Turbine Quality Test Technician , you will: * Install, level, set, prepare and operator OEM gas turbines, gas compressor, driven equipment, package system, control console, microprocessor ...

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All JobsGas Compressor JobsGas Compressor Jobs in California

Gas Compressor information

See California salary details

$15

$30

$46

How much do gas compressor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for gas 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 a gas compressor?

Gas compressors are machines or mechanical devices that increase the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. They are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and refrigeration to transport gases through pipelines, power pneumatic tools, or support chemical processes. Gas compressors operate with various mechanisms, including reciprocating pistons, rotary screws, or centrifugal force, depending on the application and required pressure. Their maintenance and operation are vital for ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliable gas delivery in industrial settings.

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

AspectGas CompressorGas Plant Operator
Primary RoleMaintains and operates gas compression equipment to increase gas pressure for transportation or processing.Oversees entire gas processing plant operations, including compression, separation, and treatment processes.
CertificationsTypically requires technical certifications in mechanical or process operations.Requires certifications in plant operations, safety, and sometimes specific process technologies.
Work EnvironmentIndustrial sites, often outdoors, focused on compression units.Processing plants, control rooms, and outdoor sites overseeing multiple systems.
Industry UsageCommonly used in natural gas transmission and processing industries.Used across natural gas processing facilities and energy companies.

While both roles operate within the natural gas industry, a Gas Compressor specializes in maintaining compression equipment, whereas a Gas Plant Operator manages entire processing operations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

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

To thrive as a Gas Compressor Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, basic electrical knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, pressure gauges, and industry safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of gas compression equipment, minimizing downtime and preventing hazardous incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by gas compressor operators, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Gas compressor operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, pressure fluctuations, and maintaining consistent gas flow rates. These challenges require strong troubleshooting skills, quick decision-making, and thorough knowledge of safety protocols. Working closely with maintenance teams and following regular inspection schedules can help prevent issues, while clear communication with control room staff ensures rapid response to anomalies. Continuous training and staying updated on industry best practices also contribute to more effective problem-solving in the field.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Gas Compressor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Gas Compressor jobs in California are:

Gas Compressor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Gas Compressor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,598 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

2027 Gas Compressor Intern

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$26 - $43/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 489 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.

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