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Building Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UC San Diego

Building Operator - 140787

San Diego, CA · On-site

$104K/yr

DESCRIPTION The Building Operator will operate and maintain medical and conventional building equipment systems such as but not limited to, building heat, steam, diesel generators, air compressors ...

County of Santa Clara, CA

Building Systems Monitor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$68K - $82K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Operates multiple specialized computer applications to monitor building operating systems, including data on air compressors, boilers, chillers, electrical equipment, elevators, fans, pumps, storage ...

Scripps Research

FACILITIES OPERATOR II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$38 - $46/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Mantis Innovation

Building Controls Project Manager

Ontario, CA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We look at the entire facility-inside and out-and can impact 70% of what a building operator allocates critical budget dollars toward, including: Strategic electricity and natural gas procurement ...

Mantis Innovation

Building Controls Project Manager

Burbank, CA

$115K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We look at the entire facility-inside and out-and can impact 70% of what a building operator allocates critical budget dollars toward, including: Strategic electricity and natural gas procurement ...

Mantis Innovation

Building Controls Project Manager

Ontario, CA

$115K - $145K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We look at the entire facility-inside and out-and can impact 70% of what a building operator allocates critical budget dollars toward, including: Strategic electricity and natural gas procurement ...

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All JobsBuilding Operator JobsBuilding Operator Jobs in California

Building Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$23

$46

How much do building operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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.

How much do building operators make?

Building operators in British Columbia typically earn between CAD 50,000 and CAD 70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the facilities they manage. Salaries can vary based on the size of the building, location, and whether the operator has specialized skills such as HVAC or electrical systems knowledge.

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.
More about Building Operator jobs

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What job categories do people searching Building Operator jobs in California look for?

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What cities in California are hiring for Building Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Building Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in CA?

For Building Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Building Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,251 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Building Operator - 140787

UC San Diego Health

San Diego, CA • On-site

$104K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

UC San Diego Health rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 08/06/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants: Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

DESCRIPTION

The Building Operator will operate and maintain medical and conventional building equipment systems such as but not limited to, building heat, steam, diesel generators, air compressors, vacuum pumps, heat exchangers, circulation pumps, plumbing, medical gas systems, elevators, low voltage electrical systems, air handlers and exhaust systems. Responds to fire alarms and any building or utility related emergencies. First responder for all minor building and systems repair calls. Other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Environmental Protection Agency Certification (EPA) or commitment to get certified within six (6) months of hire.
  • Journey-Level experience in the operation and maintenance of complex building systems typically associated with a large medical center campus.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Acceptable driving record to operate University vehicles for work-related tasks.
  • BMS Control Systems experience.
  • Healthcare building maintenance experience.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
  • Position may require occasional travel. Must have reliable transportation.
  • Ability to operate University vehicles for work-related tasks.
  • Must be able to work nights, weekends, and holidays to meet the needs of the Medical Center.
  • Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $104,275 - $104,275 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $49.94 - $49.94

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).

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