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Reciprocating Compressor Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mesa Energy Systems, Inc.

San Diego, CA · On-site

$47 - $57.18/hr

... well as engineering applications and automated control systems. * The Refrigeration Service ... Understand reciprocating compressor operation. * Use different types of compressor oils.

Reciprocating Air compressor or related engine experience * Knowledge of the rail industry ... Write engineering change documentation consistent with engineering policies and procedures.

Compression Engineer

Duluth, MN · On-site

$79K - $107K/yr

In-depth knowledge of reciprocating and turbine drive compressor units and ancillary equipment ... Professional Engineering License or the willingness to pursue license This position requires ...

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Reciprocating Compressor Engineer information

See salary details

$50.5K

$111.4K

$138.5K

How much do reciprocating compressor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for reciprocating compressor engineer in the United States is $111,405.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are typical challenges faced by a Reciprocating Compressor Engineer during equipment maintenance and troubleshooting?

Reciprocating Compressor Engineers often encounter challenges such as identifying the root cause of mechanical failures, managing unplanned downtime, and ensuring all repairs comply with safety and regulatory standards. Troubleshooting can involve complex diagnostics, since issues may stem from components like valves, pistons, or lubrication systems. Additionally, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including operations, reliability, and controls engineers—is crucial for effective problem resolution and ensuring minimal disruption to production.

What is a Reciprocating Compressor Engineer?

A Reciprocating Compressor Engineer is a specialized mechanical engineer who designs, maintains, and troubleshoots reciprocating compressors used in various industries, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and manufacturing. These engineers ensure compressors operate efficiently and safely by overseeing installation, performance testing, and regular maintenance. They also analyze system data to optimize compressor performance and address any operational issues. Their expertise is essential for minimizing downtime and maximizing the lifespan of compressor equipment.

What is the difference between Reciprocating Compressor Engineer vs Rotary Compressor Engineer?

AspectReciprocating Compressor EngineerRotary Compressor Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in compressor systemsEngineering degree, certifications in rotary machinery
Work EnvironmentRefineries, chemical plants, industrial facilitiesHVAC systems, refrigeration, industrial applications
Industry UsageOil & gas, petrochemical, power generationHVAC, refrigeration, manufacturing

Reciprocating Compressor Engineers focus on designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting reciprocating compressors, often used in heavy-duty industrial settings. Rotary Compressor Engineers work with rotary compressors, common in HVAC and refrigeration. While both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, their work environments and applications differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Reciprocating Compressor Engineer, and why are they important?

A Reciprocating Compressor Engineer should have a solid background in mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, and machine design, typically with a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, compressor performance analysis tools, and industry standards such as API 618 is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable compressor operation and maintenance in industrial applications.
Infographic showing various Reciprocating Compressor Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% Internship, 12% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 76% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,405 per year, or $53.6 per hour.
Advanced Lead Engineer - Air Compressor

Advanced Lead Engineer - Air Compressor

Wabtec

Erie, PA

$79K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Who will you be working with?

As a member of the Locomotive Products Team, you will utilize your engineering experience and expertise to solve problems and develop solutions which will have the ability to affect short-term and long-term business goals.  The position will develop products and product lines from concept through production using engineering skill and technical abilities. This position will also provide engineering support services for: research activities, field applications, sourcing efforts, and day-to-day manufacturing support.  The goal is to design railway air compressor components that are innovative and of the highest quality.  

How will you make a difference?

As the Advanced Lead, you will be responsible for leading the engineering design and validation of locomotive air compressors.  You will also provide engineering support for field applications, sourcing efforts, and manufacturing.

What do we want to know about you?

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or related field

  • Minimum of 5 years engineering experience including 3 years in mechanical product design, selection and qualification.

  • Competent working knowledge of engineering principles

  • Reciprocating Air compressor or related engine experience

  • Knowledge of the rail industry, pneumatics, and/or hydraulics

  • Experience and competence with 3D CAD software (Siemens NX or PTC CREO a plus)

  • Experience with finite element analysis (Ansys a plus)

  • Must be proficient with computers, Microsoft Office software

  • Excellent verbal and written communication/language skills required to include the ability to provide written and verbal instructions, compile and present business reports/correspondence, and present information clearly

What will your typical day look like?

  • Work independently or with a small team to design and develop new products and improvement to existing products using sound engineering principles and adhering to business standards, practices, procedures, and product requirements.

  • Prepare documentation required by the product development process such as design requirements, validation plans, 3D models/drawings and test reports.

  • Perform 3D detailed model development using Siemens NX or PTC CREO to create drawings and schematics.

  • Perform failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA).

  • Coordinate part procurement and assembly of engineering prototypes.

  • Plan, develop, and execute product validation test plans.

  • Analyze test data and generate test reports to verify the performance, reliability, and safety of new designs and/or products.

  • Provide engineering support to manufacturing, quality, sourcing, and sales & marketing.

  • Specify, acquire, and set up instrumentation to support engineering test requirements.

  • Create customer interface documents such as technical presentations, parts catalogs, and operation & maintenance manuals.

  • Write engineering change documentation consistent with engineering policies and procedures.

  • Provide timely communications on significant issues or developments. 

You may also be asked to perform other duties outside of your function or trade, for which adequate training will be provided if necessary.

What about the physical demands of the job?

  • Ability to work in engineering lab and workshops as well as office environment

  • Ability to stand/walk for 8 hour period

  • Occasionally bend; stoop; and lift and carry up to 50 lbs. (less than 2 hours/8 hour work day)

  • Frequently stand; walk; talk; hear; use hands and fingers to handle; reach with hands and arms (up to 6-hours/8 hours day)

More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, is available at mywabtecbenefits.com.

Relocation assistance may be provided if eligibility requirements are met.

Wabtec will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the U.S. for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable) and fitness for duty test (as applicable).

Additional Information

Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $79300-113000 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.

What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?

At Wabtec, it's not just about a job - it's about the impact you make. When our people come together, we're Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.

If you're ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
 

Who are we?

Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it's freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together - are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.

Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We're lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.

Culture powers us and the possibilities.

We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We're building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.


We're proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.

Need accommodation? Just let us know - we've got you.