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Building Controls Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CYNET SYSTEMS

Senior Building Controls Technician

Merced, CA · On-site

$38 - $47/hr

Or over 10 years' experience in commercial building automation. * 5+ years - Industry Experience ... Adjust parameters within the BMS or modify controls programs to resolve automation issues and to ...

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All JobsBuilding Controls JobsBuilding Controls Jobs in California

Building Controls information

See California salary details

$18

$33

$48

How much do building controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 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 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.

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 are popular job titles related to Building Controls jobs in California? For Building Controls jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Controls jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Building Controls jobs in California are:
Building Controls jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Controls job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,737 per year, or $33.5 per hour.
Building Controls Project Manager

Building Controls Project Manager

Mantis Innovation

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

Mantis Innovation provides managed facility services and turnkey program management with technology-enabled solutions that target the entire building footprint. We look at the entire facility—inside and out—and can impact 70% of what a building operator allocates critical budget dollars toward, including: Strategic electricity and natural gas procurement, renewable energy, and demand response; climate impact reduction and reporting, net zero strategies, and sustainability planning; roofing, solar, HVAC assessment management, pavement, building envelope, data center optimization, and EV charging; lighting/LED retrofits, HVAC/mechanical systems, and BMS/BAS improvements and implementation.

This is not a traditional PM role—we’re looking for someone who understands how BMS systems actually work, not just how to manage a schedule.

The BMS Project Manager ensures projects stay on budget, on schedule, and within contract by managing risk, tracking financial performance, and controlling change orders. This role requires a strong understanding of Building Management Systems (BMS), controls infrastructure, and platforms such as SCADA Ignition / PLC's, enabling effective coordination between engineering, field technicians, and clients. The PM is responsible for protecting margin, preventing scope creep, and ensuring technically sound project execution.

OUTCOMES
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of BMS controls systems, sequences of operation, and platform capabilities (e.g., PLC's, SCADA, Ignition)
  • Effectively partners with engineering and field teams by understanding controls architecture, system integration, and commissioning workflows
  • 99%+ of project gross margin achieved vs. sold margin
  • 90%+ of identified scope changes captured as approved change orders
  • 90%+ of project milestones achieved on or before planned dates
  • Monthly forecast accuracy within +/- 5% of actual financial performance
  • 100% of project financials, contracts, and documentation maintained accurately and submitted on time
  • Demonstrates accountability, ownership, and sound judgment in project execution
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Manage BMS projects from contract award through closeout; ensuring alignment with controls design, system architecture, client technical requirements, while maintaining financial and contractual alignment
  • Partner with Controls Engineers and Technicians to ensure accurate interpretation of sequences of operation and system design
  • Maintain working knowledge of BMS platforms (e.g., SCADA Ignition), controls networks (BACnet, Modbus), and system integrations
  • Review project scope to ensure alignment with controls deliverables, graphics, programming, and commissioning requirements
  • Support issue resolution by understanding basic troubleshooting of BMS systems and common field challenges
  • Act as a bridge between technical teams and clients by translating controls concepts into clear project updates
  • Develop and maintain project budgets, schedules, and forecasts across all phases
  • Own change order identification, pricing, and approval to ensure full scope recovery
  • Track and manage project financial performance while understanding technical scope drivers such as controls hardware, integration complexity, and commissioning efforts
  • Communicate project status, risks, and financial performance to clients and internal leadership
  • Execute project closeout, including financial reconciliation and final documentation
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • 3-7 years of BMS project management experience in construction, controls, or technical systems
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of BMS controls systems, sequences of operation, and platform capabilities (e.g., SCADA Ignition, PLC's)
  • Experience managing project budgets, forecasts, and financial performance
  • Ability to read and interpret contracts, construction documents, and technical project plans
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Work environment: Hybrid role across office and field environments supporting active construction and retrofit projects
  • Physical requirements:
    • Sitting, standing, and occasional site visits
    • Ability to review field conditions and coordinate with site teams
  • Schedule expectations:
    • Standard working hours with project-driven variability
    • Travel required based on project portfolio
DISCLAIMERS

This position description describes the general nature and level of work expected for this role. It is not intended to be a complete list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Responsibilities may change based on business needs, client demands, system changes, or economic conditions. Employees are expected to perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Note: Employees are held accountable for all duties of this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position.
 
What else can we offer you?
We offer a fantastic lineup of benefits, including Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, HSA, 401k Matching, Paid Vacation, Paid Sick, Paid Holidays, Paid Parental Leave, Paid Short Term & Long Term Disability, Tuition Reimbursement, and a flexible hybrid work schedule (for office-based employees). Working at Mantis also brings tremendous professional development opportunities that allow you to make a real impact on both the company and your career!
 
Not sure you meet every single requirement?
Studies show that women and individuals from underrepresented groups often hesitate to apply unless they check every box. At Mantis, we’re committed to building an inclusive and equitable team—so if this role excites you, we’d love to hear from you, even if your experience doesn’t match every single qualification.
 
Mantis Innovation is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.