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Chief Operating Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Swarms

COO (Chief Operating Officer)

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$150 - $250/hr

As COO at Swarms, you will oversee all operational aspects of the company and help scale Swarms to ... Oversee all operational functions including engineering, product, and business operations * Develop ...

Blue Forest

Chief Operating Officer

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$200K - $225K/yr

Blue Forest is made up of an interdisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, foresters, finance ... The COO oversees Human Resources, Information Technology, and business operations, building the ...

Blue Forest

Chief Operating Officer

Sacramento, CA · Remote

$200K - $225K/yr

Blue Forest is made up of an interdisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, foresters, finance ... The COO oversees Human Resources, Information Technology, and business operations, building the ...

ExThera Medical

Chief Operating Officer

Martinez, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering (preferred) or Chemistry required; advanced degree (MBA, ... Demonstrated success in an operations leadership role (VP Operations, COO, or equivalent) * Deep ...

California State University

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position works under direct supervision of the Supervising Building Services Engineer and general supervision of the Manager of Engineering Trades/Chief Engineer. Operating Engineers work shifts ...

California State University

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position works under direct supervision of the Supervising Building Services Engineer and general supervision of the Manager of Engineering Trades/Chief Engineer. Operating Engineers work shifts ...

RZR Global Inc.

Chief of Staff - COO

San Francisco, CA · On-site

We are a team of builders, operators, and technologists who believe the advertising industry is ... You will work across every function - Product, Engineering, Analytics, Sales, Finance, and People ...

California State University

Operating Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$64K - $93K/yr

This position works under direct supervision of the Supervising Building Services Engineer and general supervision of the Manager of Engineering Trades/Chief Engineer. Operating Engineers work shifts ...

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All JobsChief Operating Engineer JobsChief Operating Engineer Jobs in California

Chief Operating Engineer information

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How much do chief operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for chief operating engineer in California is $56.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.82 and $60.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Operating Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Operating Engineer, you need deep expertise in building systems operations, mechanical and electrical engineering, and typically a Stationary Engineer license or relevant certifications. Proficiency in HVAC, boiler controls, computerized building management systems, and compliance with safety regulations is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for managing teams and responding swiftly to facility issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of critical infrastructure, minimizing risks and costly downtime.

What is the difference between Chief Operating Engineer vs Maintenance Engineer?

AspectChief Operating EngineerMaintenance Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires HVAC, boiler operator licenses, or engineering certificationsOften requires HVAC or electrical certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentSupervises building systems, mechanical equipment, and facilities managementPerforms maintenance, repairs, and inspections of equipment and systems
Employer & IndustryFound in commercial, industrial, or institutional facilitiesCommon in manufacturing, facilities, and building management

The Chief Operating Engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of building systems, ensuring safety and efficiency, while the Maintenance Engineer focuses on repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles require technical certifications and work in similar environments, but the Chief Operating Engineer has broader supervisory responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced by a Chief Operating Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Chief Operating Engineers often face the challenge of balancing operational efficiency with strict safety regulations and budget constraints. They must ensure that all engineering systems run smoothly while coordinating maintenance schedules and responding quickly to unexpected mechanical issues. Effective communication with cross-functional teams and proactive planning are essential to minimize downtime and optimize resource allocation. Staying updated on industry best practices and investing in staff training can help address these challenges and lead to more efficient operations.

What is the highest salary of Chief Engineer?

The highest salary for a Chief Operating Engineer can exceed $150,000 annually, especially in large facilities or high-cost regions. Compensation varies based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of the environment they manage.

What is a Chief Operating Engineer?

A Chief Operating Engineer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of engineering systems within a facility, such as HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems. They lead a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring that all equipment runs efficiently and safely. Their role often includes managing budgets, coordinating repairs, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and implementing preventative maintenance programs. Chief Operating Engineers typically work in large buildings, industrial plants, or commercial complexes. This position requires extensive technical knowledge, leadership skills, and relevant certifications.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Chief Operating Engineers in large facilities or industrial settings can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and management responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with senior roles overseeing complex operations, often requiring specialized skills and long hours.

What does a chief operating engineer do?

A chief operating engineer oversees the operation and maintenance of building systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing to ensure safety and efficiency. They typically manage staff, perform inspections, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, often requiring relevant certifications and technical skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Chief Operating Engineers in large facilities or industrial settings can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and management responsibilities. High salaries are often associated with roles overseeing complex systems, such as HVAC, electrical, or mechanical operations in commercial or industrial environments.
What are popular job titles related to Chief Operating Engineer jobs in California? For Chief Operating Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Chief Operating Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Chief Operating Engineer job openings:
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Chief Operating Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Operating Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,180 per year, or $56.8 per hour.
Chief Operating Engineer, Commercial Office Building

Chief Operating Engineer, Commercial Office Building

Douglas Emmett

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$62 - $66/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

SCOPE AND PURPOSE:

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the physical appearance and maintenance of the office building and parking structure, ensuring that the property is being operated in accordance with the standards set forth by Douglas Emmett Management. Must be able to perform the duties of other engineering and Day Porter positions.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Include but are not limited to the following, as other duties may be assigned.

GENERAL OPERATIONS

·Oversee the building mechanical functions.

·Develop and maintain an up-to-date inventory of all equipment, tools and supplies applicable to the maintenance of the property.

·Establish a preventative maintenance program for the property.

·Develop and maintain a list of all as-built plans for the property.

·Respond to service request from Tenants and Building Office Staff.

·Obtain bids or proposals for equipment maintenance contracts, repair work and capital projects. Review submittals with Property Manager, and other DEM personnel as necessary. Make recommendations for scope of work and contractor selection.

·Assist Property Manager in the preparation of annual budget, particularly in the areas of building systems, repair and maintenance, service contracts, utilities and capital projects.

·When applicable, assist Administrative Assistant in preparation of monthly variance reports.

·Maintain compliance with OSHA regulations, SCAQMD regulations and hazardous chemicals program.

·Special projects as directed by Property Manager.

·Ability to exercise good judgment and professional demeanor interacting with building management, tenants and vendors. Team player attitude.

·Research and make recommendations to Property Manager for more cost-effective and efficient methods of operating and maintaining building systems

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

·Supervise other engineers and Day Porter in coordination with the Property Manager.

·Oversee, evaluate and make recommendations to Property Manager regarding the quality of work performed by contractors and vendors. Also review and approve maintenance and repair invoices for payment.

·Assist Property Manager in the hiring, counseling and termination of other engineers and day porter.

·Be willing to share your knowledge with fellow workers and other engineers.

TECHNICAL PREREQUISITES

·Strong verbal and written communications skills.

·Basic computer skills, particularly with Word and Excel.

·Familiarity with City of Los Angeles Building & Safety Codes and South Coast Air Quality Management District Rules.

·Appropriate professional or vocation certifications to work on building systems including mechanical, HVAC, life/safety or electrical systems.

·Projects a professional image by meeting all DE dress code standards. Uniform to be provided by DE.

·Ability to communicate in a positive and professional manger with tenants, building management and vendors.

·Ability to exercise good judgment and professional demeanor interacting with building management, tenants and vendors. Good customer service and management skills. Team player attitude.

.Must have a valid California driver's license. (May require picking up parts for a project).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

· Requires frequent walking, standing, lifting, bending, reaching and twisting. Also requires ability to ascend stairs and ladders.

Company Description

Douglas Emmett operates approximately 18 million square feet of Class A office space and over 5,000 luxury apartment units in nine highly desirable submarkets in Los Angeles County, six of which are located in Los Angeles' Westside - Brentwood, Century City, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, the Olympic Corridor, and Westwood - and three submarkets in the San Fernando Valley - Sherman Oaks/Encino, Warner Center/Woodland Hills, and Burbank. The Company's Honolulu office portfolio is located in the downtown central business district with multifamily properties in nearby suburban communities.
The Company utilizes the same focused business strategy that was implemented by its founding principals - managing, developing, redeveloping, and acquiring multifamily and commercial real estate in high barrier-to-entry submarkets that exhibit strong economic characteristics such as population and job growth, as well as inherent supply constraints, such as limited developable land due to natural and political barriers. The Company strives to capitalize on the experience of its seasoned management team to create continued value.