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Building Engineer Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... Engineer Apprenticeships, Technical Program Certifications, or Prior Military training in Building Automation Systems (BAS), Central Utility Plant (CUP) operations preferred; Knowledge of the methods ...

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Respond quickly to building emergencies. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES * No direct supervisory responsibilities. Indirect reports include Apprentice Engineer, Utility Engineer and Day Porter.

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Building Engineer Apprentice information

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$12

$21

$36

How much do building engineer apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for building engineer apprentice in California is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Building Engineer Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Engineer Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical), mechanical aptitude, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, hand tools, and building automation systems, and pursuing certifications like OSHA safety training or EPA 608 can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help apprentices learn quickly and work well in teams. These skills and qualities are vital for safely maintaining building operations, supporting senior engineers, and progressing in the facilities management field.

What are Building Engineer Apprentices?

Building Engineer Apprentices are individuals who are training to become building engineers by working under the supervision of experienced professionals. They assist with the maintenance, repair, and operation of building systems such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical systems. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, helping apprentices develop technical skills and knowledge required for a career in building engineering. This hands-on experience prepares them for more advanced roles in facility management and building operations.

What is the difference between Building Engineer Apprentice vs Building Maintenance Technician?

AspectBuilding Engineer ApprenticeBuilding Maintenance Technician
CredentialsTypically in training or pursuing certifications like HVAC, electrical, or plumbing licensesOften holds relevant certifications or licenses, such as HVAC or electrical certifications
Work EnvironmentOn-the-job training in commercial or institutional buildings, learning building systemsPerforming maintenance, repairs, and inspections in various building settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by employers training future engineers in property management or facilities managementCommonly employed by property management firms, facilities, and maintenance companies

Building Engineer Apprentices are in training to become skilled building engineers, focusing on learning building systems and gaining certifications. Building Maintenance Technicians perform hands-on repairs and maintenance. Both roles work in similar environments but differ mainly in experience level and training status.

What are the most common challenges faced by a Building Engineer Apprentice during their first year on the job?

As a Building Engineer Apprentice, one of the most common challenges is adapting to the fast-paced, hands-on environment of facility maintenance and repair. Apprentices often need to quickly learn to prioritize tasks, troubleshoot mechanical or electrical issues, and communicate effectively with senior engineers and other team members. Balancing on-the-job learning with classroom instruction can also be demanding, but it is essential for building foundational technical skills. Constructive feedback and mentorship from experienced engineers are vital in helping apprentices overcome these early challenges and become proficient in the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Building Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Engineer Apprentice jobs in California? For Building Engineer Apprentice jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Engineer Apprentice jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Building Engineer Apprentice jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Building Engineer Apprentice jobs? Cities in California with the most Building Engineer Apprentice job openings:
Infographic showing various Building Engineer Apprentice job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, 82% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,206 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Mobile Building Engineer

Mobile Building Engineer

Cushman & Wakefield

Hayward, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 153 rated real estate companies


Job description

Job Title
Mobile Building Engineer
Job Description Summary
***EPA 608 Universal Certification is required***
The position involves maintaining and repairing HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and building mechanical systems to ensure maximum efficiency of building systems. The role requires expertise in various types of heating and air conditioning plants and associated equipment, along with a commitment to excellence in service delivery.
Job Description
• Ensure ongoing preventive maintenance and repair work orders on facility mechanical, electrical, lighting, and other installed systems, equipment, and other components.
• Maintain, operate, and repair all HVAC systems and associated equipment, electrical distribution equipment, plumbing systems, building interior/exterior repair, and related grounds as it pertains to assigned client buildings.
• Perform assigned facility inspections and due diligence efforts, reporting on as-found conditions impacting satisfactory client occupancy and operations.
• Respond effectively to all emergencies. May require light travel during emergency events.
• Operation, maintenance, and repair of all boilers, heaters, pumps, valves, and lines used in the distribution of steam and heated or processed water.
• Maintain stock and inventory control.
• Recommend improvements to the preventive maintenance program on an ongoing basis.
• Ensure the management team is informed of current building operations by compiling and submitting monthly reports.
• Study and become familiar with the various items of equipment for assigned client locations, and the methods required to use them properly to ensure required ongoing daily client activities. To include building automation systems, fire/life safety systems, and any other building-related equipment as needed.
• Recommend improvements to the preventive maintenance program on an ongoing basis.
• Recognize danger and safety hazards and propose methods to eliminate them or use the correct PPE in performing the task needed.
• Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agencies, and company directives related to building operations and practicing safe work habits.
• Respond effectively to all emergencies. May require light travel during emergency events.
• Must maintain all Federal, State, or Local licenses required for locations assigned.
• Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually.
• Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance during all working hours.
KEY COMPETENCIES
• Communication Proficiency (oral and written)
• Organization Skills
• Technical Proficiency
• Problem Solving/Analysis
• Sense of Urgency
6. Related requirements
Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain knowledge and abilities would be:
Education
A High School Diploma or GED Equivalent is required. Graduate of an apprentice program or trade school preferred is preferred.
Years of Relevant Experience
Minimum of four (4) years of technical experience in all aspects of building engineering with a strong background in technical aspects of HVAC equipment and systems, plumbing, electrical, equipment repair and maintenance, and overall system design and application as referenced above.
Licenses or Certifications
• Candidate must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Based on location appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required. I
• Possess a valid "Universal" level certification for CFC and HFC-based refrigerants (EPA Section 608); to service, repair, or dispose of equipment that could release
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Experience in operation, maintenance, and basic repair of HVAC, boilers, heaters, pumps, refrigerant systems, compressors, gas lines, water systems, and the like.
• Knowledgeable in energy management systems, techniques, and operations.
• Thorough knowledge of all building systems operations, maintenance, and repair.
• Excellent interpersonal skills in dealing with tenants, clients, and vendors.
• Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word, including proficiency in the operation of smartphone and/or iPad/tablet, uploading .pdf files, and documents. Working knowledge of Computerized maintenance Management Systems.
Physical Work Requirements
Environment: This job operates in a professional office or commercial building environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines. Work could any combination of:
• Ability to perform work wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) if required
• May require regular travel outside between properties in varying weather conditions.
Physical: Considerable physical activity. Ability to stoop, stand, climb, frequently lift a minimum of 50 lbs. of equipment (pumps, tools, ladders), and safely install rigging/lifting devices. Regularly required to crouch and reach to install/move equipment by bending forward at the waist or by bending legs and spine. May involve movement between departments, floors, and properties to facilitate work. Should maintain the ability to speak clearly so others can understand you as week as the ability to read and understand the information presented orally and in writing.
Scheduling
Most schedules work typical business hours based on location assigned.
Based on client need, the role could be scheduled as the only maintenance staff member on duty during certain shifts; may be required to work extended periods of time without relief when responding to priority/emergency situations (including overtime type assignments); may require shift work and/or on-call duties and over time.
Must be willing and able to support after-hours/weekends building-related activity as required. The role may be assigned and must be able to respond to client callbacks for regular repair and/or emergencies events.
Based on location assigned, schedules could be assigned as first, second or third shift schedules assigned.
Conditions of employment
All offers of employment are contingent upon:
Legal Documentation establishing identity and eligibility to be legally employed in the US/United States Citizenship
Drug Testing
Criminal background check
Clean DMV record (for related driving roles)
Education verification
#INDSkilledTrades
Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $42.50 - $50.00
Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email Accommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.
INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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