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Elevator Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Join CBRE in Santa Clara as an Elevator Operator , where you'll be the welcoming face for all facility visitors and an essential part of our building operations team. This dynamic role involves not ...

Elevator Installer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Health insurance Position Overview Advantage Elevator is seeking an experienced Residential Elevator Installer/Technician to join our growing team. We are looking for a motivated professional with 4+ ...

Elevator Installer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Position Overview Advantage Elevator is seeking an experienced Residential Elevator Installer/Technician to join our growing team. We are looking for a motivated professional with 4+ years of ...

Elevator Installer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Position Overview Advantage Elevator is seeking an experienced Residential Elevator Installer/Technician to join our growing team. We are looking for a motivated professional with 4+ years of ...

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The Hoist Operator/Elevator Attendant is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of manual hoists on multi-story construction sites. This role involves transporting workers, tools, and heavy ...

Maintain detailed inspection records and communicate findings to facility owners and operators * Follow Safety Protocols: Adhere to all NEIS (National Elevator Inspection Service) safety policies and ...

Maintain detailed inspection records and communicate findings to facility owners and operators * Follow Safety Protocols: Adhere to all NEIS (National Elevator Inspection Service) safety policies and ...

Install, service, & repair of residential elevators, commercial LU/LA elevators, wheelchair lifts ... Operating general computer equipment/devices * Interfacing with customers directly * All other ...

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Elevator Operator information

See California salary details

$14

$17

$23

How much do elevator operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for elevator operator in California is $17.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by elevator operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Elevator operators often encounter challenges such as managing high passenger volumes during peak hours, handling emergency situations like elevator malfunctions, and ensuring the safety and comfort of all riders. Effective communication and a calm demeanor are essential, especially when assisting elderly or disabled passengers. Operators are typically trained to follow strict safety protocols and to collaborate closely with building maintenance and security teams to address any issues promptly.

What is the difference between Elevator Operator vs Security Guard?

AspectElevator OperatorSecurity Guard
CredentialsNone required or basic certificationSecurity license or certification often required
Work EnvironmentIndoor, confined spaces operating elevatorsVaried, including indoor and outdoor locations
Employer & IndustryBuilding management, hotels, hospitalsSecurity firms, commercial buildings, events
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Elevator Operators primarily focus on operating elevators within buildings, requiring minimal certifications, and work mainly indoors. Security Guards, on the other hand, provide safety and surveillance services, often needing security licenses, and work in diverse environments. While both roles serve building safety and access control, their duties, credentials, and work settings differ significantly.

Is being an elevator tech hard?

Elevator technicians, or elevator mechanics, often find the job requires technical skills, problem-solving ability, and attention to safety protocols. The work involves installing, maintaining, and repairing complex machinery, which can be physically demanding and requires specialized training and certifications. Overall, it can be challenging but is manageable with proper training and experience.

What are elevator operators and what do they do?

Elevator operators are professionals responsible for safely transporting passengers and goods between floors in buildings using manual or semi-automatic elevators. Their duties include operating elevator controls, assisting passengers, providing directions or information, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the elevator. While the role has become less common due to automation, elevator operators are still found in some historic buildings, luxury hotels, or older office complexes. They play an important role in customer service and building security.

What Does an Elevator Operator Do?

An elevator operator helps with loading and unloading an elevator car. As an elevator operator, you may operate the elevator manually or using automatic controls. Your duties include communicating with visitors, guests, or residents to determine their floor and whether they need assistance with their luggage or packages. Most elevator operator jobs are in hotels, department stores, or high buildings. Elevator operators also work in the agriculture industry, operating grain belts or other elevator equipment for moving feed or other agricultural products from a storage or manufacturing facility to transportation.

What does an Elevator Operator do?

An Elevator Operator is responsible for operating and controlling elevators in buildings, assisting passengers, and ensuring safe and efficient transportation between floors. They often provide customer service, operate controls, and may require knowledge of safety procedures and sometimes a license or certification. The role typically involves working in commercial or residential buildings and may require good communication skills and attention to safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Elevator Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Elevator Operator, you need basic mechanical understanding, attention to safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with elevator control panels and building security systems is often required. Excellent customer service, communication skills, and reliability help create a positive experience for passengers. These skills are crucial for ensuring passenger safety, smooth building operations, and high levels of service.

Is elevator repair a dying trade?

Elevator repair remains an essential trade as elevators require regular maintenance and repairs to ensure safety and compliance. While automation and remote diagnostics are increasing, skilled elevator technicians are still in demand for complex repairs and installations, making it a stable career choice.

How much do elevator operators make?

Elevator operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and the employer. The job often requires good customer service skills and knowledge of elevator systems, with some positions offering shift work or overtime pay.
What are the most commonly searched types of Elevator Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Elevator Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Elevator Operator jobs in California? For Elevator Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Elevator Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Elevator Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Elevator Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Elevator Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Elevator Operator jobs in CA? For Elevator Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Elevator Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,534 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


AIDS Healthcare Foundation rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

An Elevator Operator contributes to AHF by assisting tenants at Healthy Housing Foundation locations. Within their duties of providing elevator operation service to applicable facilities this position has the opportunity to give stand out service that enhances the reputation of AHF. In addition, better elevator operation will increase AHF's ability to serve more clients as well as decrease the amount of time ithe elevator is inoperable.
An Elevator Operator enhances the reputation of AHF by by being friendly and helpful and by offering to give them a helping hand when they need it. In addition, giving feedback to their manager about how service could be improved will allow the team member to enhance their contribution.
You will be a passionate advocate for our top initiatives.
To be successful as a Elevator Operator it is crucial to ensure that the AHF Core Values and Mission stay top of mind with all that you do. At AHF we are nimble and able to adapt in a dynamic environment to assist in providing the best experience for our clients and workplace for our employees.
AHF has a collaborative organizational structure where staff are accountable to multiple leaders.
The Elevator Operator will work as a part of a close-knit team to ensure proper management of AHF properties.
AMAZING INDIVIDUALS WORKING FOR POSITIVE PEOPLE at AIDS Healthcare Foundation!
Does the idea of doing something that really makes a difference in people's lives while being well-compensated intrigue you? Are you looking to work for an organization that encourages growth and success from each and every one of its employees?
If so, AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the place for you!
Founded in 1987, AIDS Healthcare Foundation is the largest specialized provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the nation. Our mission is to provide cutting edge medicine and advocacy, regardless of ability to pay. Through our healthcare centers, pharmacies, health plan, research and other activities, AHF provides access to the latest HIV treatments for all who need them.
AHF's core values are:
  • Patient-Centered
  • Value Employees
  • Respect for Diversity
  • Nimble
  • Fight for What's Right

Please review our Advocacy page for the latest news on how AHF is Fighting for What's Right! Advocacy News.
Benefits at AHF
AHF offers comprehensive benefits to help our employees do and be their very best! These benefits are intended to enhance employee physical, financial, spiritual and professional health.
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