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Building Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Includes hydraulic, pneumatic, plumbing, carpentry and building maintenance, major overhaul of equipment, fabrication of parts, air conditioning and heating system installation, adjustment, system ...

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Building Mechanic information

See California salary details

$13

$23

$37

How much do building mechanic jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for building mechanic in California is $23.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a building mechanic?

Building mechanics are skilled tradespeople responsible for maintaining, repairing, and sometimes installing the mechanical systems within a building. These systems can include heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, electrical, and sometimes basic structural repairs. Building mechanics help ensure that facilities operate smoothly and safely by performing regular inspections, troubleshooting issues, and responding to maintenance requests. Their work is essential in keeping commercial, residential, and industrial buildings functional and comfortable for occupants.

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

To thrive as a Building Mechanic, you need a solid understanding of HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical work, and general building maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant vocational training or certification. Familiarity with building automation systems, diagnostic tools, and maintenance management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and operational reliability of building facilities.

What are some common challenges a building mechanic faces when maintaining older facilities?

Building Mechanics working in older facilities often encounter challenges such as outdated systems, limited access to replacement parts, and the need to balance modern upgrades with historical preservation. These circumstances require strong problem-solving skills and adaptability, as solutions may involve creative repairs or working closely with vendors to source rare components. Additionally, Building Mechanics in these environments often collaborate with engineers, architects, and facility managers to ensure safety and compliance while minimizing disruptions to building occupants.

What is the difference between Building Mechanic vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectBuilding MechanicMaintenance Technician
CertificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing licensesHVAC, electrical, plumbing licenses
Work EnvironmentCommercial, industrial buildingsCommercial, industrial buildings
Employer & IndustryProperty management, facilities servicesProperty management, facilities services
Job FocusMaintains building systems, repairs equipmentPerforms repairs, preventive maintenance

Building Mechanics and Maintenance Technicians often share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on maintaining building systems. However, Building Mechanics typically handle more complex systems and may have a broader scope of responsibilities, while Maintenance Technicians often focus on routine repairs and preventive maintenance. Both roles are essential for facility operations and are frequently searched together by employers and job seekers.

Infographic showing various Building Mechanic 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 $49,355 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Pacific Gas and Electric Company rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 53 rated energy and utility


Job description

Requisition ID # 173862 

Job Category: Maintenance / Construction / Operations 

Job Level: Individual Contributor

Business Unit: Energy Delivery

Work Type: Onsite

Job Location: Oakland

Department Overview

PG&E's Corporate Real Estate Strategy and Services (CRESS) organization is responsible for governing, planning, acquiring, designing constructing, operating and maintaining 8.2 million square feet (sq. ft.) of facilities throughout PG&E's 72,000 square mile service territory.  These facilities include but are not limited to PG&E Oakland General Office of 28 floors, service centers, data centers, contact centers, office buildings, shops, warehouses, construction and equipment yards, vehicle maintenance garages, Customer Service Offices (CSO), and meeting and training facilities.

Position Summary

This is an IBEW local 1245 represented classification, which has over 100 years of experience representing employees at PG&E and is subject to collective bargaining.

A stationary building mechanic who is engaged in performing high-rise building work or is engaged in training assignments as an assistant to a Lead Building Mechanic or higher classification, may be required to work alone or under indirect supervision on all jobs for which an employee has been trained and has demonstrated an employee's ability.

PG&E is providing the hourly rate that the company in good faith believes it might pay for this position at the time of the job posting. This position is subject to collectively bargained hourly wage rates and increases. The starting wage rate for this position is $ 49.95 per hour.  This wage rate is specific to the locality of the job. The wage rate is based on multiple factors, including, but not limited to, specific skills, education, licenses or certifications, experience, market value, geographic location, collective bargaining agreements, and internal equity.

Responsibilities:

  • Repairs on toilet facilities including soap dispensers.
  • Repairs on registers and radiators.
  • Replacement of lamps and cleaning of light fixtures.
  • Removing ceiling tile.
  • Minor repairs on furniture and floors.
  • Maintaining and/or replacing door hardware.
  • Repair of floor maintenance equipment and venetian blinds.
  • Maintenance painting in equipment rooms, cooling towers and other building facilities.
  • Replacement of air filters in the H.V.A.C. equipment.
  • General cleaning in mechanical spaces and perimeter induction units.
  • Cleanup of equipment in engine room and shop.
  • Miscellaneous handy work requiring the limited use of hand tools.
  • Replace fire extinguishers when needed.
  • Cleaning of air vents and roof drains.
  • Perform minor and emergency repairs as necessary on-site.
  • Communicate with internal and external customers regarding safety, parts, repairs and timelines

Qualifications

Minimum:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Ability and willingness to wear company provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Must possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Ability to work in all types of weather extremes
  • Ability to drive safely in all road conditions
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, extended hours, nights, weekends, and/or overtime (scheduled or ad hoc)
  • Must be able to lift up to 100 pounds a minimum of one time a day
  • Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license or ability to obtain by first day of employment

Desired:

  • 3 years of hands-on in high-rise building-related construction, maintenance, and/or repair experience
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications: Word, Excel, and job related
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Strong time management skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team
  • Demonstrated positive customer service demeanor
  • Record of residence within 50 miles of headquarters

Pre-Employment Testing

PG&E Employees: You must have qualified on all prerequisite tests prior to submitting an application, and all secondary tests prior to interviewing. For more information on prerequisite and secondary exams, including study guides, please visit the Pre-employment testing program website.

  • Physical Test Battery

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