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Gas Compressor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Gas Compressor information

See California salary details

$15

$30

$46

How much do gas compressor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 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 are gas compressors and what do they do?

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, and why are they important?

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 2% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% 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.
Gas Compressor Mechanic Trainee

Gas Compressor Mechanic Trainee

Solar Turbines Incorporated

San Diego, CA • On-site

$30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Solar Turbines rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 433 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.
Position starts at $30/hour
Minimum Qualifications
  • Minimum of 1 year experience using power tools, other equipment to perform troubleshooting, repair and installation
  • Understanding of engineering schematics and blueprints.
  • Ability to work overtime as needed
  • GED or Equivalent
  • Must be willing to work any shift

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous Gas Compressor or Turbine assembly.
  • Operate/use various equipment/tools including; precision measuring instruments, multimeters, proximeters, specialized induction heaters, hydraulic stretch tooling, pullers, torch, forklift, tugg, build stand elevator, and overhead crane.

POSITION DESCRIPTION: Assemble, disassemble, rework, and repair various completed compressors and their sub-assemblies in support of customer need's. Perform complete overhaul of compressors and sub-assemblies.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
Working knowledge of Solar gas compressor machinery. Maintain a safe work environment, perform safety audits. Engage in continuous improvement efforts in Safety, Velocity, and Cost, and support the overall departments goals.
  • Assemble, disassemble, internal components and sub-assemblies to complete compressors
  • Perform installation, removal, disassembly, and repair of precision dry gas seals. Maintain training and certification requirements through supplier-provided training
  • Provide product support and technical assistance to internal and external customers
  • Set up and operate balancing machines to balance gas compressor parts and rotor assemblies to critical requirements.
  • Use specialized computer programs for electrical and mechanical run outs.
  • Perform duties working from Shop Floor Information System, operation instruction sheets, assembly drawings, bill of materials, photographs, written and oral instructions
  • Apply computer skills to access and record electronic information in programs such as Shop Floor Information System.
  • Inspect parts, components, and assemblies prior to installation.

Compensation & Benefits
Base rate for this role ranges from $24.00- 42.41.. Actual rate will be based on experience. The total rewards package, beyond base salary includes:
  • Annual incentive bonus plan*
  • Medical, dental and vision coverage starting day 1
  • Paid time off plan (Vacation, Holiday, Volunteer, Etc.)
  • 401(k) Savings Plan including company match
  • Health savings account (HSA)
  • Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)
  • Disability Benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Voluntary Benefits and Employee Discounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Sign on bonus
  • Career Development

*Subject to annual eligibility and incentive plan guidelines
Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position. This employer is not currently hiring foreign national applicants that require or will require sponsorship tied to a specific employer, such as, H, L, TN, F, J, E, O. As a global company, Caterpillar offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S which can be found through our employment website at www.caterpillar.com/careers.
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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