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Building Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

New York University

Building Operator

New York, NY · On-site

$51.16/hr

Five years relevant experience as building operator, building engineer, handyperson, or other tradesperson. Preferred Experience: Experience in higher education, health care, telecommunications, or ...

New York University

Building Operator

New York, NY · On-site

$51.16/hr

Five years relevant experience as building operator, building engineer, handyperson, or other tradesperson. Preferred Experience: Experience in higher education, health care, telecommunications, or ...

Altanova

Building Energy Performance Director

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $240K/yr

You'll collaborate directly with architects, design engineers, contractors, and building operators to ensure systems perform as intended and facilities deliver real value - not just on paper, but in ...

Altanova

Building Energy Performance Director

New York, NY · On-site

$140K - $240K/yr

You'll collaborate directly with architects, design engineers, contractors, and building operators to ensure systems perform as intended and facilities deliver real value not just on paper, but in ...

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Building Operator information

See New York salary details

$15

$26

$51

How much do building operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for building operator in New York is $26.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $31.83 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.
More about Building Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in New York? For Building Operator jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Building Operator jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Building Operator jobs in New York are:
What are popular job titles related to Building Operator jobs in NY? For Building Operator jobs in NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Building Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Building Operator job openings in New York as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,597 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Building Operator

Building Operator

New York University

New York, NY • On-site

$51.16/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

New York University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Summary
SHIFT: Tuesday - Saturday 3:00PM - 11:30PM
Operate, maintain and repair building systems and equipment to perform safely and efficiently; respond and complete client work requests; perform preventive maintenance duties and routines, and provide other building-related services as required.
Qualifications
Required Education:
High School Graduate. FDNY Certificate of Fitness.
Preferred Education:
Trade school or other post-elementary education.
Required Experience:
Five years relevant experience as building operator, building engineer, handyperson, or other tradesperson.
Preferred Experience:
Experience in higher education, health care, telecommunications, or other sensitive facilities where high levels of performance and reliability are required.
Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
Knowledge of building systems, equipment and proper operating conditions. Knowledge of maintenance routines and standards. Good written and verbal communications skills, good interpersonal skills. Basic knowledge/familiarity with computer applications such as email. Positive attitude, willingness to collaborate and team with others to accomplish work efficiently and to high quality standards. Essential Requirements of the Position: Proficient in English (e.g., reading directions and instructions written in English); ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, climb a ladder, work in small, cramped spaces, and in outdoor environments and elements (combined 40% - 50%).
Preferred Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:
Knowledge of University and department policies, processes, and quality standards.
Additional Information
In compliance with NYC's Pay Transparency Act, the hourly rate for this position is USD $51.160. This rate is based on bargaining unit contracts. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses, clinical compensation, or other items.
NYU aims to be among the greenest urban campuses in the country and carbon neutral by 2040. Learn more at nyu.edu/nyugreen.
NYU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to a policy of equal treatment and opportunity in every aspect of its recruitment and hiring process without regard to age, alienage, caregiver status, childbirth, citizenship status, color, creed, disability, domestic violence victim status, ethnicity, familial status, gender and/or gender identity or expression, marital status, military status, national origin, parental status, partnership status, predisposing genetic characteristics, pregnancy, race, religion, reproductive health decision making, sex, sexual orientation, unemployment status, veteran status, or any other legally protected basis. All interested persons are encouraged to apply at all levels.

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About New York University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since its founding in 1831, NYU has been an innovator in higher education, reaching out to an emerging middle class, embracing an urban identity and professional focus, and promoting a global vision that informs its 20 schools and colleges. Today, that trailblazing spirit makes NYU one of the most prominent and respected research universities in the world, featuring top-ranked academic programs and accepting fewer than one in eight undergraduates. Anchored in New York City and with degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai as well as 12 study away sites throughout the world, NYU is a leader in global education, with more international students and more students studying abroad than any other US university.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

1831

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