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Building Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scripps Research

FACILITIES OPERATOR II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$38 - $46/hr

Make daily rounds throughout the plant and building to inspect operating systems, take readings, and report on conditions - identifying issues before they become failures. * Respond directly to ...

Scripps Research

FACILITIES OPERATOR II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$38 - $46/hr

Make daily rounds throughout the plant and building to inspect operating systems, take readings, and report on conditions -- identifying issues before they become failures. * Respond directly to ...

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Building Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$46

How much do building operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operator in California is $23.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $28.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Building Operator, you need strong knowledge of building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing), preventive maintenance procedures, and often a relevant technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and safety regulations is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient facility operation, tenant comfort, and compliance with safety and maintenance standards.

What Is a Building Operator?

As a building operator, you oversee the operations of a building or facility to ensure that its electrical and mechanical equipment, as well as heating and cooling, are working properly. Your duties may include inspecting the building for safety hazards and regulation violations, performing repairs, and checking the facility’s ability to operate successfully. You may also supervise other employees. A career as a building operator typically requires a diploma or certification training program to gain hands-on experience in areas such as building science and energy efficiency. You may also need state certificates of fitness in facility components like interior fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and refrigeration to demonstrate your ability to handle these potentially dangerous materials. Additional qualifications include strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of industry regulations.

What are building operators?

Building operators are responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of commercial, residential, or industrial buildings. They ensure that the building's systems—such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical—are functioning efficiently and safely. Building operators also coordinate repairs, manage service contractors, respond to tenant or occupant concerns, and may assist with energy management and regulatory compliance. Their work is essential for maintaining a comfortable, safe, and efficient environment within the property.

What is the difference between Building Operator vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectBuilding OperatorMaintenance Technician
CredentialsOften requires HVAC, electrical, or plumbing certificationsTypically needs HVAC, electrical, or plumbing certifications
Work EnvironmentManages building systems, often in commercial or institutional settingsPerforms repairs and maintenance, often in various facilities
Employer & IndustryReal estate management, property management, facilities servicesFacilities management, repair services, industrial settings

Building Operators and Maintenance Technicians share similar certifications and work environments, often overlapping in skills related to HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. Building Operators focus on managing entire building systems and ensuring operational efficiency, while Maintenance Technicians primarily perform repairs and routine maintenance. Both roles are essential in maintaining building functionality and are commonly sought in property management and facilities industries.

What are some typical challenges a Building Operator might face on a daily basis?

Building Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to urgent maintenance issues, troubleshooting complex building systems, and balancing preventive maintenance with unexpected repairs. They must also coordinate with vendors, tenants, and other facility staff to ensure smooth building operations while maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Adaptability and strong communication skills are key to managing the fast-paced and sometimes unpredictable nature of the role.
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Building Operator jobs near you
FACILITIES OPERATOR II

FACILITIES OPERATOR II

Scripps Research

San Diego, CA • On-site

$38 - $46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

ABOUT US:
Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program. Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Calibr-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.
POSITION TITLE:Facilities Operator II
POSITION SUMMARY:
Candidates with chiller and/or boiler experience are strongly encouraged to apply. This is a hands-on, wrench-turning role. The Facilities Operator II is expected to be in the field daily - operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the plant and building systems that keep our research institute running. Responsibilities span boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, motors, HVAC systems, electrical distribution, water treatment, and building controls. If you are most comfortable with tools in hand and problems to solve, this position is for you. This position involves shift work, primarily first shift, with occasional assignments on other shifts as operational needs arise.
RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:
  • Hands-on maintenance, installation, modification, and repair of boilers, cooling towers, chillers, pumps, motors, motor control centers, transformers, switchgear, wiring, receptacles, lighting, and fire alarm systems.
  • Make daily rounds throughout the plant and building to inspect operating systems, take readings, and report on conditions - identifying issues before they become failures.
  • Respond directly to emergency calls for building, plant, or equipment failures - diagnosing problems on the spot and making repairs. Work daily with BMS, fire alarm, and equipment monitoring technologies.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and electrical problems; determine root cause and take corrective action to repair or replace equipment as needed, including coordination of system shutdowns with building users.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, layouts, and other specifications to determine installation or repair requirements.
  • Interact with facilities personnel, utilities, contractors and consultants to evaluate, plan and coordinate work.
  • Order supplies and maintain stock inventory of parts and materials needed for ongoing operations.
  • Perform routine work orders and preventive maintenance tasks hands-on, as assigned.
  • Accurately record daily hours worked and time spent on individual tasks.
  • Work daily with the Facilities Computer Maintenance Management System (CMMS) Software.
  • May perform related tasks and work of other Facilities department personnel, as required or assigned.
  • Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

REQUIREMENTS:
  • High school diploma or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been attained.
  • Minimum of 5 years of directly related experience maintaining, repairing and installing mechanical systems.
  • Trade/Vocational School certification and 4 years of experience may be substituted for 5 years of experience
  • Chiller and/or boiler experience in institutional, commercial, or industrial facilities. (Preferred)
  • Knowledge of materials applications, proper use of tools, safety practices and techniques.
  • Experience with building management software, including daily use of computer-based software Building Automation Systems, Windows, email, timekeeping, reporting, etc.
  • Requires professional interpersonal, communication, and written skills.
  • Ability to evaluate mechanical and electrical systems for coordination with other facilities staff.
  • Ability to lift and carry heavy objects, with or without accommodation, up to 50 pounds, use hand power tools, and work under time constraints.
  • Requires valid driver license issued from the state in which the position is located.
  • Position involves shift work, with occasional alternate shift coverage as needed.

COMPENSATION:
The expected hiring range for this position is $38.00 to $46.00/hourly, commensurate with experience. Consideration will be given to experience that exceeds the listed requirements.
COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS INCLUDE:
  • Employer Contributed Retirement Plan - Depending on eligibility, employees receive an employer contributed retirement plan (no employee contribution required) and the option to contribute to a 403(b) using your own pre or post-tax dollars.
  • Full Suite of Health and Welfare plans including four medical plan options (including an HSA available option), dental, vision, life insurance, disability, EAP and more
  • Access to Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical/Dependent Care)
  • Competitive vacation and sick leave policies
  • Free, on-site parking

The above statements describe the level of work performed and expected in general terms. The statements are not intended to list all the responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of employees so classified, and the content herein is subject to change due to the business needs of Scripps Research, with or without notice. Furthermore, nothing in this job description shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way the employment-at-will status of Scripps Research staff.
EEO Statement:
The Scripps Research Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We promote diversity of thought, culture and background in the fields of science. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic or status. Underrepresented individuals are encouraged to apply.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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