ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Building Engineer Apprentice Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Douglas Emmett

Be Seen First

Operating Engineer, Commercial Office Buildings

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

$40 - $47/hr

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

CBRE

HVAC Building Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$55 - $70/hr

... building systems, equipment, and instruments. This job is part of the Engineering and Technical ... C Apprentice, Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, HVAC Specialist

CBRE

Union Apprentice Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$98K/yr

As a CBRE Union Apprentice Engineer, you will perform preventive maintenance and corrective repair ... Inspect building systems including fire alarms, HVAC, and plumbing. * Oversee outside contractors ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsBuilding Engineer Apprentice JobsBuilding Engineer Apprentice Jobs in California

Building Engineer Apprentice information

See California salary details

$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:
Building Engineer Apprentice jobs near you
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.
Operating Engineer, Commercial Office Buildings

Operating Engineer, Commercial Office Buildings

Douglas Emmett

Beverly Hills, CA • On-site

$40 - $47/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

GENERAL OPERATIONS

  • Maintain, operate and inspect building systems including fire alarms, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical in keeping with industry practice, manufacturer recommendations and Engineering Standard Operating Procedures. Hands on application +50% of time.
  • Develop and maintain an up-to-date inventory of all equipment, tools, and supplies applicable to the maintenance of the property.
  • Obtain bids or proposals for equipment maintenance contracts, repair work, and capital projects. Review submittals with Property Manager, and other personnel as necessary. Make recommendations for scope of work and contractor selection.
  • Assist Property Manager in the preparation of annual budget, particularly in the areas of building systems, repair and maintenance, service contracts, utilities, and capital projects.
  • When applicable, assist in preparation of monthly variance reports.
  • Special projects as directed by Property Manager.
  • Research and make recommendations to Property Manager for more cost-effective and efficient methods of operating and maintaining building systems
  • Respond quickly to building emergencies.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • No direct supervisory responsibilities. Indirect reports include Apprentice Engineer, Utility Engineer and Day Porter.
  • Evaluate and make recommendations to Property Manager regarding the quality of work performed by contractors and vendors. Also review and approve maintenance and repair invoices for payment.
  • Assist Property Manager in the hiring, mentoring and termination of engineering and janitorial staff.

TECHNICAL PREREQUISITES

  • 5+ years of related experience in office building operations.
  • Strong verbal and written communications skills.
  • Basic computer skills, particularly with Word and Excel.
  • Familiarity with City of Los Angeles Building & Safety Codes and South Coast Air Quality Management District Rules.
  • Appropriate professional or vocation certifications to work on building systems including mechanical, HVAC, life/safety or electrical systems.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and make decisions.
  • Projects a professional image by meeting all dress code standards. Uniform to be provided.
  • Ability to exercise good judgment and professional demeanor interacting with building management, tenants and vendors. Team player attitude.

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.