Compressor Technician
Also posted as High-Pressure Air Technician; Low-Pressure Air Technician; Air Plant Technician
A compressor technician performs compressor maintenance and overhaul, dryer, receiver and distribution systems, and high-pressure safety controls to keep shipboard mechanical, piping, and auxiliary systems safe, reliable, compliant, and ready for operation. Most people start with a high school diploma plus employer or technical training rather than a four-year degree.
Below: what it pays, what you'd do, the skills you need, and how to become one.
The role profile
Everything you need to know about this role, the same details employers use to post openings and colleges use to build training.
How much does it pay?
Explore the core responsibilities of this role, from daily operations and equipment handling to safety, quality, and performance requirements.
Maintain and overhaul compressors
Inspect, rebuild, and align air compressors to keep supply pressure and capacity on spec.
Service air treatment equipment
Maintain dryers, receivers, and distribution piping that deliver clean, dry air.
Verify high-pressure controls
Test relief valves, interlocks, and safety controls on high-pressure air systems.
Read ship system diagrams
Interpret ship system diagrams to trace air supply, isolation, and relief paths.
What skills do you need?
Three core skills sit at the heart of this role. You can learn all of them through short, hands-on training.
Compressor Overhaul
Rebuilding and aligning air compressors to restore capacity and pressure.
Air Treatment Systems
Maintaining dryers, receivers, and distribution piping for clean air.
High-Pressure Safety
Testing relief devices and interlocks on high-pressure air systems.
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