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Apprentice System Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Douglas Emmett

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Apprentice Building Engineer, Commercial Office Buildings

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

... systems and equipment at his/her assigned building(s). The Apprentice Engineer will also ensure compliance with all Douglas Emmett Engineering Standard Operating Procedures and corporate directives.

NVE

BOILER OPERATOR

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$52 - $62/hr

The position ensures high-pressure and low-pressure steam and hot water systems operate safely ... Trade school/technical college certification, apprenticeship /or long-term training on the job for ...

Midas

Diagnostics using state-of-the-art computer systems * Tires and tire repair * Car heating and air ... MIDAS locations are independently owned and operated by franchisees. Your application will be ...

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program Completed (Certificate in hand) CAC Criteria ... control systems such as Trimble and Topcon. • Ability to read plans and stakes a plus. • ...

Midas

Apprentice Automotive Technician

Hamilton City, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Diagnostics using state-of-the-art computer systems * Tires and tire repair * Car heating and air ... MIDAS locations are independently owned and operated by franchisees. Your application will be ...

PetersonCat

ThinkBIG Apprentice

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$26.21/hr

... owned and operated business.It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters ... systems, advanced technologies and high-tech tools. ThinkBIG combines classroom work with hands-on ...

PetersonCat

ThinkBIG Apprentice

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$26.21/hr

... owned and operated business.It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters ... systems, advanced technologies and high-tech tools. ThinkBIG combines classroom work with hands-on ...

PetersonCat

ThinkBIG Apprentice

San Martin, CA · On-site

$26.21/hr

... owned and operated business.It's time to use your skills and passion to do work that matters ... systems, advanced technologies and high-tech tools. ThinkBIG combines classroom work with hands-on ...

Kitchen Tune-Up

Carpenter Apprentice

Lake Forest, CA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... system of committed professionals. Our remodeling experts update, uplift and upgrade kitchens ... Kitchen Tune-Up ® franchises are independently owned and operated businesses and if you accept a ...

Western Engineering Contractors, Inc.

CA · On-site

Heavy Equipment Operator Apprenticeship Program Completed (Certificate in hand) CAC Criteria ... systems such as Trimble and Topcon a plus. • Ability to read plans and stakes a plus. • ...

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All JobsApprentice System Operator JobsApprentice System Operator Jobs in California

Apprentice System Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$19

$29

How much do apprentice system operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice system operator in California is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Apprentice System Operator?

An Apprentice System Operator is an entry-level position in the energy or utility sector, where individuals learn how to monitor, control, and maintain the operation of electrical power systems under the supervision of experienced system operators. Apprentices receive hands-on training and classroom instruction to understand grid operations, safety protocols, and emergency procedures. Their goal is to gain the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the reliable delivery of electricity and, eventually, qualify for a full System Operator role.

How does an Apprentice System Operator typically collaborate with senior operators and other departments during their training period?

As an Apprentice System Operator, you'll work closely with experienced system operators who provide guidance and on-the-job training. Collaboration often involves shadowing senior staff during shift operations, participating in real-time problem solving, and attending cross-departmental meetings to understand system reliability and communication protocols. You'll also interact with maintenance, engineering, and dispatch teams to learn how outages and grid issues are addressed. This hands-on, team-based environment helps you develop the technical and communication skills necessary for advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice System Operator, and why are they important?

To succeed as an Apprentice System Operator, you need a foundational understanding of electrical systems, strong analytical skills, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training preferred. Familiarity with SCADA systems, energy management software, and basic computer applications is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of power systems, minimizing downtime and maintaining service continuity.

What is the difference between Apprentice System Operator vs Power Plant Operator?

AspectApprentice System OperatorPower Plant Operator
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, possibly a high school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications may be preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, often in control rooms or plant sitesOperational environment, monitoring equipment, controlling power generation processes
Employer & Industry UsageUtilities, power generation companies during training phasePower plants, energy companies, industrial facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles and training pathwaysJob responsibilities, qualifications, and career progression

The main difference is that an Apprentice System Operator is in training, gaining skills under supervision, while a Power Plant Operator is a fully qualified professional responsible for operating and maintaining power generation equipment. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for a career as a Power Plant Operator, with similar work environments and industry usage.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of System Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Apprentice System Operator jobs in California? For Apprentice System Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Apprentice System Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice System Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice System Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Apprentice System Operator job openings:
Apprentice System Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice System Operator job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,402 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Apprentice Building Engineer, Commercial Office Buildings

Apprentice Building Engineer, Commercial Office Buildings

Douglas Emmett

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Summary

Under the supervision and direction of the Chief Engineer and the property management team, the Apprentice Engineer is responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of the mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire/life safety systems and equipment at his/her assigned building(s). The Apprentice Engineer will also ensure compliance with all Douglas Emmett Engineering Standard Operating Procedures and corporate directives. The Apprentice Engineer may stand a shift and works with the tools of the trade.

Job Duties

· Reports to the Chief Engineer, Assistant Chief Engineer, Building Engineer or Property Manager, who will provide functional and operational guidance and job assignment as required.

· Provides operational and functional guidance to maintenance and contractor personnel working on the property.

· Operates, maintains and repairs all mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems and devices in the building, when approved by the Chief Engineer.

· Monitors installation and implementation of energy related projects, systems and devices.

· Maintains operating manuals and technical data, and accurate written records of all maintenance services, preventive maintenance, equipment inventory, general supply and parts inventory, and pertinent data regarding operating equipment, building fixtures and tenant drawings and plans.

· Monitor parts inventories for all maintenance items on a monthly basis and request the purchase of required supplies by the Assistant Chief Engineer or Property Manager.

· Performs preventive maintenance as assigned by the Chief Engineer.

· Read and comprehend trade-related blueprints, line diagrams and schematics.

· Performs minor painting, carpentry, locksmith and exterior site work as required and assigned.

· Maintain contact with building occupants to solve operational problems.

Company Description

Douglas Emmett operates approximately 18 million square feet of Class A office space and over 5,000 luxury apartment units in nine highly desirable submarkets in Los Angeles County, six of which are located in Los Angeles' Westside - Brentwood, Century City, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, the Olympic Corridor, and Westwood - and three submarkets in the San Fernando Valley - Sherman Oaks/Encino, Warner Center/Woodland Hills, and Burbank. The Company's Honolulu office portfolio is located in the downtown central business district with multifamily properties in nearby suburban communities.
The Company utilizes the same focused business strategy that was implemented by its founding principals - managing, developing, redeveloping, and acquiring multifamily and commercial real estate in high barrier-to-entry submarkets that exhibit strong economic characteristics such as population and job growth, as well as inherent supply constraints, such as limited developable land due to natural and political barriers. The Company strives to capitalize on the experience of its seasoned management team to create continued value.