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Building Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Drone Operator

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

About Valcourt Building Services Valcourt Building Services is the premier provider of building ... As we expand our use of cutting-edge technology, we are seeking a dedicated Drone Operator to join ...

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Drone Operator (73664)

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$28 - $35/hr

About Valcourt Building Services Valcourt Building Services is the premier provider of building ... As we expand our use of cutting-edge technology, we are seeking a dedicated Drone Operator to join ...

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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 Sep 12, 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 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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in California?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Building Operator jobs in California are:

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:

Infographic showing various Building Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,251 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Building Operator - 140787

San Diego, CA • On-site

University of California San Diego
Education • 10K+ employees

$49.94/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


University Of California San Diego rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Payroll Title:
SYS OPR Department:
FACILITIES ENGINEERING Hiring Pay Scale
$49.94 / Hour Worksite:
Hillcrest Appointment Type:
Career Appointment Percent:
100% Union:
K6 Contract Total Openings:
1 Work Schedule:
Variable, 8-Hour Shifts , Variable
#140787 Building Operator
Extended Deadline: Tue 9/15/2026
Apply Now
UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.
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).
Apply Now
If employed by the University of California, you will be required to comply with our Policy on Vaccination Programs, which may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements. If applicable, life-support certifications (BLS, NRP, ACLS, etc.) must include hands-on practice and in-person skills assessment; online-only certification is not acceptable.
UC San Diego Health is the only academic health system in the San Diego region, providing leading-edge care in patient care, biomedical research, education, and community service. Our facilities include two university hospitals, a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Shiley Eye Institute, Sulpizio Cardiovascular Center, the only Burn Center in the county, and dozens of outpatient clinics. We invite you to join our team!
Applications/Resumes are accepted for current job openings only. For full consideration on any job, applications must be received prior to the initial closing date. If a job has an extended deadline, applications/resumes will be considered during the extension period; however, a job may be filled before the extended date is reached.
To foster the best possible working and learning environment, UC San Diego strives to cultivate a rich and diverse environment, inclusive and supportive of all students, faculty, staff and visitors. For more information, please visit UC San Diego Principles of Community .
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
For the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
UC San Diego is a smoke and tobacco free environment. Please visit smokefree.ucsd.edu for more information.
UC San Diego Health maintains a marijuana and drug free environment. Employees may be subject to drug screening.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer.
a. "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies governing employee conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer. For reference, below are UC's policies addressing some forms of misconduct:
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • Abusive Conduct in the Workplace

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