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Building Mechanic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Building Mechanic II

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $121K/yr

Building Mechanics perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled work in the installation, operation, maintenance, remodeling, construction, painting, and repair of buildings and equipment, and ...

Building Mechanic I

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $108K/yr

Building Mechanics perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled work in the installation, operation, maintenance, remodeling, construction, painting, and repair of buildings and equipment, and ...

Senior Building Inspector

La Habra, CA ยท On-site

$40.73 - $57.31/hr

Perform the more complex field inspection of building construction, plumbing, mechanical and electrical installations in residential and commercial buildings; verify compliance with applicable ...

Senior Building Inspector

La Habra, CA ยท On-site

$40.73 - $57.31/hr

Perform the more complex field inspection of building construction, plumbing, mechanical and electrical installations in residential and commercial buildings; verify compliance with applicable ...

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

Assists with preventive maintenance for all building mechanical equipment such as air handlers, pumps, variable air volume units, etc. Knowledgeable in building automation systems (BAS). Responds to ...

Roving Building Engineer

San Bernardino, CA ยท On-site

$32.60 - $41/hr

About You As the Mobile Building Engineer (FLEET VEHICLE PROVIDED), you are familiar with ... mechanical, electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems, ensuring the systems are running efficiently ...

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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 6, 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 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.

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 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.
Infographic showing various Building Mechanic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,355 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Building Mechanic II

County of Sonoma, CA

Santa Rosa, CA โ€ข On-site

$100K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Salary : $100,056.53 - $121,637.35 Annually
Location : Santa Rosa, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26/07-5335-OSPI
Department: Sonoma County Public Infrastructure (SPI)
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit: 85
Position Information
Bring your expertise with electrical/electronics, HVAC, plumbing, security systems, and refrigeration to the County of Sonoma.
Journey-level electricians, electro-mechanical, low-voltage control, and refrigeration technicians are highly encouraged to apply.
Starting salary up to $56.57/hour ($118,068/year) and a competitive total compensation package!*
Sonoma Public Infrastructure seeks skilled candidates to fill a position at either the Building Mechanic I or II level. If you are interested in being considered at both levels, you must apply to the separate, concurrent recruitments being conducted for each level.
Building Mechanics perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled work in the installation, operation, maintenance, remodeling, construction, painting, and repair of buildings and equipment, and perform related work as required. Typical duties may include, but are not limited to:
  • Installing, inspecting, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining mechanical systems, electrical and electronic systems, chillers, boilers, and general plumbing equipment
  • Installing, inspecting, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining manual and electronic door locks, door hardware, and door closers
  • Utilizing and navigating computerized maintenance management systems and building management systems
  • Keeping records and logs and preparing simple reports
  • Additional typical duties include general carpentry, installing flooring and baseboards, installing window glass, and preparing and painting a variety of surfaces and structures

The ideal Building Mechanic II candidate will demonstrate that they have years of trade experience working in one or more of the following: access controls and security systems, boilers and chillers, carpentry, central mechanical controls/building automation, electrical, electronics, HVAC, painting, plumbing, refrigeration, and/or roofing. The top candidates will also possess many of the following:
  • Knowledge of the occupational hazards of various trades and how to apply safe work practices
  • Experience keeping electronic maintenance/repair records
  • Effective customer service and the written and oral communication skills needed to interact with clients, system users, and other mechanics
  • Experience efficiently managing work priorities, meeting deadlines, and knocking out punch lists correctly, the first time
  • A team player mentality, and the willingness to work with others to rapidly troubleshoot issues across different trades

Additionally, training or certification in the following is desirable:
  • Union Apprenticeship Program
  • Training from Electricians union
  • Training from Local 39 stationary engineers
  • EPA 608 Certification

Building Mechanics are expected to work and assess problems in different trades sometimes quickly due to the urgency of the need or problem. A Building Mechanic's typical work week is four 10-hour days, between Monday and Friday, 6:30 am to 5:00 pm PST. Each day starts with a crew meeting of typically 7-10 mechanics and ends with 15 minutes spent on timecard completion and invoice coding. Each week one mechanic is assigned to be on-call for emergency building repairs. Uniforms (jeans, shirts, and jackets) and boot vouchers up to $300/pair (max of two pairs) are provided. At times, Building Mechanics work inside detention centers, and health care and mental health lockdown facilities.
What We Offer
Working at the County of Sonoma offers expansive opportunities for growth and development, the ability to be a part of a challenging and rewarding work environment, and the satisfaction of knowing you're working to better our communities. You can also look forward to flexible work arrangements and excellent benefits* including:
  • Salary Advancement - A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full-time) for good work performance; eligibility for a salary increase for good performance every year thereafter, until reaching the top of the salary range
  • Paid Time Off - Competitive vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year
  • County Paid Health Premium Contributions - 100% premium contribution for the majority of employee-only and employee + family health plan options
  • Staff Development/Wellness Pay - Annual benefit allowances of up to $565 and ongoing education/training opportunities
  • Post-Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement - County contributions to help fund post-retirement employee health insurance/benefits
  • Retirement - A pension fully integrated with Social Security
  • Paid Parental Leave - May be eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) after 12 months of County employment
  • Additional Benefits- Excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, and more
  • Student Loan Debt Relief - County employees may be eligible for through the U.S. Department of Education

Join Our TeamThe Sonoma County Public Infrastructure (SPI) Department leads the way to a safe and sustainable community by planning, building, managing, and maintaining Sonoma County's investment in quality services and infrastructure. SPI operates and maintains various facilities across the County, many of which were constructed during the 1950s and 60s and require consistent upkeep and care. The locations include the Airport Complex, County Administration Center, Chanate and Los Guilicos Campuses, Main Adult Detention Facility, and four Veterans' Memorial Buildings.
Please note that the construction and maintenance responsibilities of the Building Mechanic positions require sitting, standing, reaching, kneeling, bending, stooping, crawling, squatting, crouching, grasping, and walking on level, sloped, and slippery surfaces at various heights. They also require the need to lift, carry, and push equipment, materials, and supplies weighing up to 100 pounds. Incumbents are required to work in all weather conditions, including rain, cold, heat, fumes, dust, and other air contaminants which may cause eye and skin irritation. The nature of the work also requires incumbents to handle noise-producing tools and equipment, refrigerants and solvents, and drive County vehicles. Possession of a valid class C or higher driver's license is required for this position because the position's typical duties include fieldwork that requires driving County vehicles.
Additionally, this position is required to have access to Sheriff's Office and/or Probation Department facilities and/or view data or work with information systems for these departments. This requires that a more extensive "Security Clearance" will be performed after hire. Successful completion of the probationary period will be contingent upon passing the security clearance, which includes a Live Scan fingerprint-based check of the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) criminal records. If you are offered a position that requires a security clearance, the job offer letter will clearly specify this as a condition of the probationary period.
This recruitment is being conducted to fill a Building Mechanic position at either the I or II level in Sonoma Public Infrastructure. This employment list may also be used to fill future full-time, part-time, or extra-help (temporary) positions as they occur during the active status of the list. Qualified County employees who wish to be considered for future positions should consider applying to this recruitment.
*Salary is negotiable within the established range. Benefits described herein do not represent a contract and may be changed without notice. Additional information can be found in the and our
Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire be completed.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience and Education: Any combination of education, experience, and training which would lead to possession of the required knowledge and abilities. Normally, completion of an approved apprenticeship program or journey level experience in at least two building trades OR one year experience equivalent to a Building Mechanic I with the County of Sonoma AND journey-level experience in at least two building trades would provide such an opportunity. The ability to read and write English and perform basic arithmetic calculations is required at a level sufficient to perform the duties of the position.
License: Possession of a valid driver's license at the appropriate level including special endorsements may be required depending upon assignment to perform the essential job functions of the position.
The position advertised on this announcement does require possession of a valid California Driver's License.
Special Qualifications: In addition to successfully completing a pre-employment medical screening, incumbents of this class must be able to use a respirator and pass a respirator fit test annually. A certificate of successful completion of hazardous materials training on asbestos and lead paint is required within six months of appointment to this class.
Background Requirement: Incumbents in this class are subject to assignment to work in detention facilities. Candidates certified must be willing to undergo an in-depth background investigation, including a check of: employment history, drug and alcohol use, criminal history, DMV records, and fingerprints. Candidates convicted of a felony or under current formal probation supervision may be subject to disqualification.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Considerable knowledge of: system, theory, and procedure for installation, operation, maintenance, and repair in two or more of the following areas: electrical, HVAC, refrigeration, electronic, plumbing, painting, and carpentry, including Uniform Mechanical, Electrical, Building, Fire, and Life Safety Codes; and effective use of tools, equipment, and materials used in building trades; procedures, materials, and tools used in remodeling buildings and building furniture; occupational hazards and safety precautions of the building and mechanical trades, including using highly toxic paints.
Ability to: inspect systems and buildings to detect existing or potential problems; read and understand blueprints and circuit diagrams; analyze situations and develop an effective course of action; lead and train other employees; perform arithmetic calculations as required by the job; maintain records and prepare reports; read, understand, maintain and follow MSDS sheets and instructions. Learn the operation and routine maintenance of computerized instrumentation and plant operational equipment. Establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers, employees of other departments and agencies, and the public. Mix and match paints and varnishes; apply paint to a wide variety of surfaces; make estimates of time and material required on widely varied assignments; keep simple records and prepare simple reports. Demonstrate physical strength, agility and endurance; lift up to 50 lbs.; stoop, lift and stand for extended periods of time; paint overhead for extended periods of time; work in heat and cold and various outdoor exposures; and safely climb up and down ladders and scaffoldings.
Selection Procedure & Some Helpful Tips When Applying
  • Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
  • You should list all employers and positions held within the last ten years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
  • You may include history beyond ten years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one employer, list out each position separately.
  • Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.

Please visit to review more detailed information about the hiring process, including the application process, examination steps, and department selection process.
Application submissions require the Supplemental Questionnaire to be completed.
Responses to supplemental questions may be scored using position-specific criteria. Please provide specific and detailed responses of a reasonable length to allow for a thorough assessment of your qualifications. Responses that state, "See Resume" or "See Application" may be considered insufficient and therefore may not be scored.
The selection procedure will consist of the following examination:
An Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination (weight 100%) will be conducted to evaluate each applicant's application and supplemental questionnaire for satisfaction of minimum qualifications (pass/not pass); and for educational coursework, training, experience, knowledge, and abilities which relate to this position. Personally identifiable information (PII) is removed from the standard application fields and applicable attachments. This PII blind screening practice redacts a candidate's personal information that could potentially influence or bias the scoring process. Personal information includes the applicant's name, former last name, address, phone number, email, driver's license number, school name, education start and end dates, age, date of birth, gender, and race. This PII blind scr