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Assistant Plant Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Plant Electrical Engineer

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Plant Electrical Engineer ensures the safe, reliability, and efficient operation of all plant ... teams. * Assist in developing capital project programs, including budget management and cross ...

... Assist in performing daily/monthly site and equipment safety inspections. Work towards constant ... Some college level computer, organizational, and mechanical engineering courses. SKILLS: Bilingual ...

Production Technician

Fremont, CA

$19 - $23.50/hr

Carry out daily & weekly maintenance on assigned equipment * Assist plant engineers and mechanics in completing higher-level maintenance tasks * Make and assume other duties and responsibilities ...

The qualified candidate will assist the Engineering Department in fulfilling the responsibilities and achieving the objectives and goals of the Plant Engineering position. This position requires a ...

Production Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

Carry out daily & weekly maintenance on assigned equipment * Assist plant engineers and mechanics in completing higher-level maintenance tasks * Make and assume other duties and responsibilities ...

Production Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

Carry out daily & weekly maintenance on assigned equipment * Assist plant engineers and mechanics in completing higher-level maintenance tasks * Make and assume other duties and responsibilities ...

Production Technician

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

Carry out daily & weekly maintenance on assigned equipment * Assist plant engineers and mechanics in completing higher-level maintenance tasks * Make and assume other duties and responsibilities ...

Engineer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The qualified candidate will assist the Engineering Department in fulfilling the responsibilities and achieving the objectives and goals of the Plant Engineering position. This position requires a ...

Plant Specialist

Nipton, CA · On-site

$76.60 - $125.40/hr

... engineering initiatives, project activities, and operations and maintenance functions to ensure ... Proactively identify and resolve problems using independent judgment. * Assist in training ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Plant Engineer information

What does an assistant plant engineer do?

An Assistant Plant Engineer supports the efficient operation and maintenance of manufacturing or processing plants. They assist in planning, coordinating, and supervising engineering projects, equipment maintenance, and facility improvements. Their responsibilities also often include troubleshooting machinery, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and supporting senior plant engineers with technical tasks. This role typically requires a background in engineering and strong problem-solving skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant plant engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and foundational knowledge of plant operations. Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), AutoCAD, and industry-standard safety protocols is commonly required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These competencies ensure efficient plant maintenance, minimize downtime, and support overall operational excellence.

How does an assistant plant engineer typically collaborate with other departments within a manufacturing facility?

As an Assistant Plant Engineer, you will regularly work alongside teams such as maintenance, production, and safety to ensure efficient plant operations. Collaboration often involves coordinating equipment repairs, implementing process improvements, and supporting safety initiatives. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as you may need to gather input from operators, report progress to plant managers, and assist with cross-functional projects to optimize plant performance.

What is the difference between Assistant Plant Engineer vs Maintenance Engineer?

AspectAssistant Plant EngineerMaintenance Engineer
CredentialsDiploma or Bachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial EngineeringDiploma or Bachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or related engineering
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, production sitesIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, equipment maintenance areas
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, power plants, and large industrial facilitiesCommon in manufacturing, facilities management, and industrial sectors

The Assistant Plant Engineer and Maintenance Engineer roles often overlap in industrial settings, focusing on plant operations and equipment upkeep. The Assistant Plant Engineer typically supports plant management with engineering tasks, while the Maintenance Engineer concentrates on maintaining and repairing machinery. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but their primary responsibilities differ slightly, with the Assistant Plant Engineer more involved in operational support and the Maintenance Engineer focusing on maintenance activities.

Do you need a degree to be an assistant plant engineer?

An assistant plant engineer typically does not require a college degree but benefits from technical training or certifications in engineering, maintenance, or related fields. Relevant experience, technical skills, and knowledge of plant operations are often more important than formal education for this role.

How much do assistant plant engineers make in the US?

Assistant plant engineers in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often work in manufacturing or industrial settings, requiring technical skills and knowledge of plant operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Plant Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Plant Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Plant Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Plant Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Professional Mechanical Engineer

University of California San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Job Summary:
Professional Mechanical Engineer involves engineering design, construction and alteration of electrical, mechanical, gaseous and liquid systems in buildings, facilities and other structures. Involves new construction, major alterations and maintenance of physical plant facilities for general purposes. Includes civil, electrical and mechanical engineering specialties.
Uses skills as a seasoned, experienced engineering professional to operate independently in a professional specialized engineering phase of major construction projects, performs design engineering work for projects of limited scope, and / or improves design of physical plant engineering systems. Demonstrates good judgment in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.
Under the general direction and guidance of the Assistant Director of Engineering, this Professional Mechanical Engineer is responsible for independently performing design, specification and submittal reviews for large and small scale new and retrofit projects. This position is also responsible for in-house mechanical and plumbing design for renovation and renewal projects under Facilities Services. He/she provides mechanical engineering consulting and trouble-shooting support for facilities operations, participating in and supervising mechanical and plumbing system master planning, playing a lead role in optimizing operational efficiencies of the HVACR, central plant and distribution systems. He/She will also consult the energy-, controls, and commissioning team and actively participate in developing and updating campus design guidelines and standards. The Mechanical Engineer consults other University departments as needed. In addition, the Professional Mechanical Engineer will develop cost estimates, provide as-builts, and prepare descriptive summaries and scope of work for infrastructure, renewal, and deferred maintenance projects.
Department Overview
The Facilities Services Department (FS) is committed to creating an exceptional campus physical environment to support the research, teaching, health care and community service mission of the University. FS employs over 465 professional staff/contractors and acts as steward for over $95 million in operating funds and $28 million in capital funds annually to achieve its goals in operating, maintaining, and renewing the UCSF campus environment consisting of 9 million GSF of research, clinical, administrative, and auxiliary services space. Located in the Campus Life Services organization.
FS participates in system-wide Principles of Community and all FS leaders are expected to create a fair, equitable, safe, and supportive work environment, where everyone can do their best work. FS leaders share accountability for the overall success of the operation and strive towards a high-performance work environment. We value innovation, creative problem solving, and diligent follow-through.
Responsibilities
of time
Essential Function (Yes/No)
Key Responsibilities
(To be completed by Supervisor)
25%Yes
Functions as Senior Project Mechanical engineer l), for a major construction project, including new construction or major alterations.
To provide mechanical engineering expertise for design of campus renewal projects, small to medium size deferred maintenance (FIN - Facilities Investment Needs) projects, energy and water conservation projects.
Serves as engineering liaison to coordinate communications between chief architects, chief engineers, and engineering staff members.
. Provides engineering analysis in support of recommended system upgrades or modifications.
25%Yes
Reviews engineering design development and construction documents to ensure compliance with the specified programs and policies of the organization.
To ensure project correspondence, documentation and vital information are well recorded and documented to comply with University policy and procedures on Record Retention Management.
Ensures that all project records such as drawings, specification, submittal, review committees, correspondence, discussions, drawings and specifications, close out information etc. are well documented and transferred to University Space Management Team.
To ensure project documentation complies with UCSF Facilities Design Standards, University policies and applicable codes.
20%Yes
Provides analysis to improve the design, operation and maintenance features of, mechanical, plumbing and utility systems in a physical plant.
Provides professional engineering information and advice to committees consisting of current or prospective occupants in determining building needs and priorities, for projects of limited scope.
Functions as design engineer (mechanical), for projects of limited scope undertaken by organization's staff, such as: lab renovation projects. equipment and utility installations.
15%Yes
Functions as physical plant engineer, concentrating in some particular aspect of the physical planning and construction program or the physical plant operation and maintenance program, where the level of difficulty and volume of work requires professional engineering skills and knowledge.
Supports project engineering activities (, for small construction projects, and provides engineering support for new construction or major alterations.
Reviews engineering design development and construction documents to ensure compliance with the specified programs and policies of the organization.
Provides engineering peer reviews on projects.
15%Yes
Provides direction and guidance to lower-level engineers.
Works with field personnel to identify and solve operational problems.
Provides as needed consultation for Facilities Services Units.
Performs utilities capacity reviews, supports the development of preventative and reliable centered maintenance programs for utilities infrastructure as needed.
Performs field investigations and analysis to support facilities investment needs for deferred maintenance and capital improvement programs and utilities capacity analysis.
Performs field investigations, engineering research and analysis, and prepares the required reports with recommendation including cost estimates to improve campus infrastructure to meet anticipated future campus growth; provides recommendation for projects inclusion in the deferred maintenance and capital improvement programs and other long range development needs.
100% (To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and / or equivalent experience / training.
  • Minimum 5+ years of related experience
  • 5 years of experience in Mechanical design of Research Laboratories, Vivarium, higher education facilities or similar institutions
  • 1-3 years of experience in facilities operations/support activities
  • Proficient in computerized and manual HVAC analysis, including AutoCAD MEP
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint)
  • Demonstrate a professional attitude in the work environment.
  • Experience and knowledge of HVACR for new design and renovations of research laboratories, vivariums and different level of Biosafety labs.
  • Knowledge of Plumbing, Central Plants, Mechanical Distribution systems, and DDC controls.
  • Knowledge in applicable Codes and energy standards
  • Thorough knowledge associated with independently performing the full range of engineering professional work.
  • Ability to work in a collaborative manner; identify challenges and barriers and recommend resolutions.
  • Effective written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
  • Demonstrated organizational and decision-making abilities to manage competing priorities.
  • Strong project management skills needed to ensure high quality and timely completion of design and construction projects.
  • Thorough knowledge necessary to apply principles, practices and procedures in the completion of assignments.
  • Ability to lead and influence others.
  • Strong knowledge of OSHA, Environmental, Health and Safety Management regulations as they relate to design and execution of project and incorporating sustainable development practices.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • BIM/Revit experience
  • LEED AP
  • Experience in construction project management and project cost estimation.
  • OSHPD Experience
  • Experience in Renewable Energy Application
  • Demonstrated ability to simultaneously coordinate a large number of projects, of varying size, type, and complexity.
  • Work experience in University or similar institutions
  • Minimum 5+ years of related experience

About Us
About UCSF
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.
Pride Values
UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.
In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.
Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
Salary Information
The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.
Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.
To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

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