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Chief Operating Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

COO (Chief Operating Officer)

Palo Alto, CA ยท 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 ...

At Workstream, the COO will act as the company's chief execution architect -owning the ... Drive synergy and alignment across traditionally siloed functions-Product, Engineering, GTM ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Chief Operating Engineer information

See California salary details

$29

$56

$83

How much do chief operating engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief operating engineer?

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 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 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 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, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with safety regulations, often requiring relevant certifications and technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Operating Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Chief Operating Engineer jobs in California are:

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:

What job categories do people searching Chief Operating Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Operating Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chief Operating Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chief Operating Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Operating Engineer jobs in CA?

For Chief Operating Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Operating Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,180 per year, or $56.8 per hour.

COO (Chief Operating Officer)

Swarms

Palo Alto, CA โ€ข On-site

$150 - $250/hr

Other

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

As COO at Swarms, you will oversee all operational aspects of the company and help scale Swarms to power the agent economy worldwide. You will ensure operational excellence while we grow rapidly.

Responsibilities
  • Oversee all operational functions including engineering, product, and business operations
  • Develop and execute operational strategy to support rapid growth
  • Build and scale worldโ€‘class teams and processes
  • Optimize operations for efficiency, quality, and velocity
  • Partner with CEO on company strategy and execution
Qualifications
  • You have 10+ years of operational leadership experience, with 5+ years as COO or equivalent
  • You have a proven track record of scaling startups through high growth phases
  • You have deep understanding of AI technology and the agent economy
  • You are a strategic thinker with exceptional execution skills
  • You are passionate about building infrastructure for the agent economy
Application

Ready to help build infrastructure for the agent economy? Submit your application and weโ€™ll be in touch soon.

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