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Piston Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Removes, repairs and replaces components such as cam shafts, crankshafts, pistons, compression rings, piston rods, bearings, cylinder liners, valve springs, rocker arms, electronic and hydraulic ...

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Piston information

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$9

$15

$27

How much do piston jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for piston in Colorado is $15.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.67 and $16.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a piston?

Pistons are cylindrical components that move up and down inside the cylinders of an engine. They play a crucial role in converting the energy from combustion into mechanical motion that ultimately powers a vehicle or machine. The piston's movement helps compress the air-fuel mixture and transmits the resulting force to the crankshaft via the connecting rod. This process enables the engine to generate the power needed for motion.

What are some common challenges faced by piston engineers in maintaining optimal engine performance?

Piston Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing engine efficiency with durability, minimizing friction and wear, and ensuring pistons can withstand high temperatures and pressures. Staying updated with advancements in materials and manufacturing processes is also crucial, as is collaborating closely with design and testing teams to address issues that arise during prototyping or real-world operation. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a piston engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Piston Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, materials science, and thermodynamics, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS, and engine testing equipment is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure efficient piston design, optimal engine performance, and successful collaboration in automotive or manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Piston vs Valve Technician?

AspectPistonValve Technician
Required CertificationsASE certifications, mechanical licensesASE certifications, mechanical licenses
Work EnvironmentEngine repair shops, manufacturing plantsAutomotive repair shops, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomotive, manufacturing, aerospaceAutomotive, industrial machinery

Both Piston and Valve Technicians require similar certifications and often work in automotive or manufacturing environments. However, pistons are primarily associated with engine components, while valve technicians focus on engine valves and related systems. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the mechanical repair industry.

Infographic showing various Piston job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,575 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Power Production Technician with Security Clearance

UICGS and Bowhead Family of Companies

Arvada, CO • On-site

$52.88/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Overview Bowhead is seeking a Power Production Technician to support the 460 Mission Support Group. As a supporting member of the 460 Mission Support Group you will provide subject matter expertise (SME) in the area of power production. Responsibilities • Operates electrical power plant AC and DC switchgear to control and distribute electrical power through primary and secondary electrical distribution systems. • Operate controls to actuate remotely controlled circuit breakers, transformers, and switches to regulate voltage, tie secondary circuits into the system and shed loads to prevent overloads on feeders or generators. • Start, stop, synchronize, and parallel diesel generators and commercial electrical power sources to allow transfers of electrical power between commercial power sources to diesel generators and back to commercial power. Monitors and operates diesel generators to ensure proper operation of power plant generators and electrical power distribution equipment. Monitors and operates 14 Uninterruptible Power Systems (UPS) used for sensitive data processing equipment. • Uses following hierarchy of guidance for maintenance activities: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) followed by commercial followed by locally developed operating procedures, manuals, and specifications to accomplish assigned tasks. Employee must be capable of performing these duties independently. • Installs, modifies, inspects, trouble shoots, repairs, replaces and overhauls generators, diesel engines, electrical distribution switchgear, control components and other auxiliary equipment required for the operation of generators up to 2.5 MW. • Performs preventive maintenance and makes other inspections to isolate and diagnose malfunction of the diesel engines, generators or auxiliary equipment, and disassembles equipment for repair or to determine extent of wear. Inspects for repair and major overhaul of diesel engines, governors, radiators, fuel systems, compressors and other equipment related to electrical power production. Removes, repairs and replaces components such as cam shafts, crankshafts, pistons, compression rings, piston rods, bearings, cylinder liners, valve springs, rocker arms, electronic and hydraulic governors, water/oil/fuel pumps, timing gears, turbochargers, fuel injectors, and cylinder heads and air starters. Accomplishes incidental fabrication of various items and reworks parts until an adequate replacement can be made. • Installs, inspects, troubleshoots, repairs or replaces power plant electrical systems and complex control panels such as solid state electronic sensing devices, electronic governors, alternators and exciters, voltage regulators, electric power and lighting systems which include three phase 4,160 V power systems and complex distribution systems, primary and secondary distribution panels, generator set alarm, building and security alarm systems, motor and motor controls, etc. Uses following hierarchy of guidance for maintenance activities: OEM, followed by commercial, followed by locally developed operating procedures, manuals, and specifications to accomplish assigned tasks. • Other duties as assigned. Qualifications • Minimum of a High School Diploma (or equivalent); BA/BS Preferred • 4+ years of experience with power production • Experience with federal, state, and local codes concerning health, safety, and the environment preferred • Demonstrated knowledge of Department of Defense policies and procedures preferred • An In-Scope Top Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a SCI is required Physical Demands: Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds Must be able to stand and walk for prolonged amounts of time Must be able to twist, bend and squat periodically Employee typically works in well lighted, heated, and ventilated areas.
Work is sometimes performed outside in inclement weather. Targeted hourly rate is $52.88 based on qualifications and experience. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Bowhead considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and business considerations when extending an offer. #LI-DNI MN1