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Building Controls Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Building Controls information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$48

How much do building controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for building controls in California is $33.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are building controls?

Building controls are systems and devices used to manage, monitor, and automate a building’s environment and operations, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and security. These controls help improve energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and operational performance by allowing centralized or automated adjustments based on real-time data. Modern building controls often integrate with smart technologies and can be accessed remotely. They play a crucial role in reducing energy costs and maintaining optimal building conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building controls specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Controls Specialist, you need a strong background in HVAC systems, electrical engineering, and building automation, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and software such as Tridium Niagara or Siemens Desigo is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with facility teams and troubleshooting systems. These skills ensure energy-efficient, safe, and reliable building operations that meet occupant and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in building controls, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Building Controls often encounter challenges such as integrating new systems with existing infrastructure, troubleshooting complex automation issues, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology standards. Effective communication with facility managers and other trades is essential to ensure smooth system operation and timely resolution of issues. Staying current with training and certifications, as well as developing strong problem-solving skills, can help address these challenges and lead to greater success in the role.

What is the difference between Building Controls vs HVAC Technician?

AspectBuilding ControlsHVAC Technician
CredentialsCertifications in controls systems, HVAC, or electrical workHVAC certification, EPA license, technical training
Work EnvironmentCommercial, industrial buildings, control system installationsResidential, commercial buildings, HVAC system maintenance
Industry UsageDesign, install, and troubleshoot building automation systemsInstall, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems

Building Controls and HVAC Technicians often work together but focus on different aspects of building systems. Building Controls specialists primarily handle automation and control systems, while HVAC Technicians focus on heating and cooling systems. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital in building maintenance and energy efficiency.

How do I become a building controls technician?

To become a building controls technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by technical training or an apprenticeship in HVAC, electrical systems, or building automation. Certifications such as the Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) or manufacturer-specific training can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with control systems like BACnet or LonWorks is often required.
Building Controls jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Controls job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,737 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Building Controls Technician - Travel Team

The Building People

Los Angeles, CA

$32.25 - $42.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

$90,000-$120,000
The Building People, LLC, has a position open for a full-time Building Controls Technician - Travel Team to support building controls projects across customer sites. This junior-level role performs existing conditions site visits related to building controls infrastructure, documents field conditions, and assists with installation, startup, programming, and verification of Tridium-based building automation systems. The position works under the direction of senior technicians, engineers, and project leads while supporting travel-based project delivery, field documentation, and customer coordination.
Responsibilities/Duties
  • Travel to customer sites to perform existing conditions assessments of building controls infrastructure, including panels, controllers, field devices, networks, communication trunks, sensors, actuators, and related equipment.
  • Document existing conditions through field notes, photographs, device inventories, point lists, network observations, controller information, and site assessment reports.
  • Assist with installation, startup, checkout, and commissioning support for Tridium/Niagara-based building automation and control systems.
  • Support basic programming, graphics, schedules, alarms, trends, histories, and point mapping under the guidance of senior controls personnel.
  • Perform point-to-point verification, functional testing support, controller checkout, and equipment communication checks during project delivery.
  • Assist with troubleshooting building controls hardware, wiring, network connectivity, device communication, and application issues in the field.
  • Coordinate with senior technicians, engineers, project managers, subcontractors, facility staff, and customers to support field work and project schedules.
  • Maintain accurate project documentation, including redlines, as-built notes, site visit findings, issue logs, service notes, and closeout documentation.
  • Follow company and customer safety, cybersecurity, access, and site-specific procedures while working in active facilities.
  • Participate in hands-on training to build skills in DDC controls, Tridium/Niagara platforms, smart building systems, and field service best practices.
*This position requires regular travel to customer sites to perform field assessments, documentation, installation support, and controls system startup activities.
Required Skills
  • Good verbal and written communication skills for field notes, customer interaction, and project coordination.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and able to organize photographs, notes, equipment information, and site documentation.
  • Basic understanding of building automation systems, DDC controls, HVAC equipment, field devices, and smart building infrastructure.
  • Ability to learn and support Tridium/Niagara-based control systems, including basic navigation, point review, graphics, schedules, alarms, and trends.
  • Ability to follow technical direction, work from checklists, and escalate issues appropriately to senior technicians or engineers.
  • Basic troubleshooting skills related to controls wiring, devices, network communication, controllers, and workstation connectivity.
  • Detail-oriented approach to documenting existing conditions, deficiencies, equipment information, and project changes.
  • Willingness and ability to travel regularly to customer sites, including overnight travel as project needs require.
Required Experience/Education
  • 1 to 3 years of experience in building automation, HVAC controls, electrical, mechanical, low-voltage, field service, facilities, or a related technical field preferred.
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical school, associate degree, apprenticeship, military technical training, or related coursework preferred.
  • Experience performing field work, site surveys, equipment documentation, installation support, startup support, or service documentation preferred.
  • Exposure to Tridium/Niagara, BAS platforms, DDC controls, BACnet, Modbus, IP networking, or related building systems preferred but not required.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to meet company travel requirements.
Preferred Skills/Experience
  • Hands-on experience with Tridium/Niagara N4, Niagara AX, or other BAS platforms.
  • Experience supporting controls installation, panel work, device checkout, network troubleshooting, graphics, or basic programming.
  • Familiarity with Johnson Controls, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Honeywell, Distech, Automated Logic, or similar BAS platforms.
  • Interest in pursuing Niagara certification, controls training, cybersecurity awareness, or other building technology credentials.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to travel regularly, work at customer sites, and support project schedules that may include early mornings, evenings, or overnight stays.
  • Ability to walk buildings, access mechanical/electrical rooms, climb ladders as permitted, inspect panels and equipment, and work around typical facility environments.
  • Ability to use a computer, mobile device, camera, basic hand tools, meters, ladders, and personal protective equipment as required for field documentation and installation support.
  • Ability to participate in scheduled after-hours work when required for project cutovers, startup, or customer access windows.