Positive drive valve actuating mechanisms (300) useable to operate a valve of a reciprocating compressor for oil and gas industry and related methods are provided. The valve actuating mechanism includes a driver (310, 320) configured to perform a rotating motion and a follower (340, 350) connected to a mobile part of the valve and to the driver. The follower is configured to transform the rotating motion of the driver into a reciprocating motion to open the valve and to close the valve, respectively.