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Entry Level Building Engineer Jobs in California

GCX

Mechanical Engineer - Entry Level

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

... Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team. This role is well suited for early ... building hands-on experience in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. Key Responsibilities ...

Picogrid

Entry-Level Electrical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Today, we're building the essential infrastructure to unify sensors, autonomy, and operators with ... About the Role As an Entry-Level Electrical Engineer at Picogrid, you will design, build, and test ...

New

Stantec

Building Science Consultant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$85K - $119K/yr

Our architects, engineers, interior designers, consultants, sustainability specialists, and ... This is a full-time, entry-level to early-career position that offers exposure to a wide range of ...

City of Davis, CA

Building Inspector I/II

Davis, CA · On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

... architects, engineers, and contractors; performs inspections on a variety of buildings and ... This is the entry-level classification in the Building Inspector series. Initially under close ...

City of San Marcos

BUILDING INSPECTOR I/II

San Marcos, CA · On-site

$74K - $116K/yr

OR, one year of entry level construction experience with ICC Building Inspector Certificate; OR, Bachelor of Arts degree in a related field (i.e., engineering, architecture, etc.) with ICC Building ...

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All JobsBuilding Engineer JobsEntry Level Building Engineer JobsEntry Level Building Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Building Engineer information

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How much do entry level building engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level building engineer in California is $31.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Building Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectEntry Level Building EngineerMaintenance Technician
CertificationsHVAC, electrical, or plumbing licenses; relevant certificationsHVAC, electrical, plumbing certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentCommercial or residential buildings, facilities managementSimilar settings, often hands-on repair and maintenance
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with building systems, monitor operations, perform basic repairsPerform repairs, troubleshoot equipment, routine maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageProperty management, facilities services, real estateFacilities management, property maintenance, service companies

Both roles involve maintaining building systems and require similar certifications. An Entry Level Building Engineer typically oversees building operations and assists with system management, while a Maintenance Technician focuses more on hands-on repairs and troubleshooting. The roles often overlap, but the Building Engineer may have broader responsibilities related to building systems management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Building Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Building Engineer, you need a basic understanding of building systems, HVAC, and general maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS), power tools, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and good communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure efficient building operations, quick troubleshooting, and effective teamwork in maintaining facility safety and functionality.

What does an Entry Level Building Engineer do?

An Entry Level Building Engineer assists in the maintenance, repair, and operation of building systems such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and general facilities upkeep. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers or facility managers, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting basic issues, and ensuring that equipment operates efficiently. This role often involves hands-on work, responding to service requests, and learning industry standards and safety procedures on the job.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level building engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level building engineers often encounter challenges such as learning complex building systems, adapting to preventative maintenance schedules, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues. To address these, new engineers should proactively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in on-the-job training, and make use of available technical documentation. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as collaboration with facility managers, contractors, and other engineers is a regular part of the role. Embracing a willingness to learn and asking questions can help ease the transition and foster professional growth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Building Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Building Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Building Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Building Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Building Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Building Engineer jobs near you
Entry-Level Engineer

Entry-Level Engineer

Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description


Please note:
  • The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including the disabled and veterans.

Whiting-Turner Entry-Level Engineers are team members who help manage all aspects of construction projects. Reporting to a Project Manager and/or a Superintendent, the Entry-Level Engineer's major duties include:
  • Coordinating work with project owner representatives, architects, engineers, inspectors, and site subcontractors and/or directing the work of all trades assigned to a construction work site.
  • Managing estimating and bidding processes and tracking costs to manage project budget.
  • Resolving and clarifying design issues.
  • Identifying and resolving field issues and change orders.
  • Writing contracts and purchase orders using company boilerplate language to document all ordered work, schedules, projected costs, change orders and technical specifications.
  • Participating in meetings to coordinate work and manage labor concerns.
  • Ensuring work is completed in accordance with quality standards and contract specifications.
  • Implementing project schedules including each task associated with project completion.
  • Documenting the technical, financial and personnel aspects of each project.
  • Reviewing project drawings, specifications, submittals and change orders.
  • Reviewing each trade's work progress with respect to each project phase.
  • Providing field support to construction superintendents to help ensure contract compliance, quality control and maintenance of the site.
  • Tracking project phase completion against milestones.
  • Setting expectations for managing a safe work site.
  • Documenting each phase of the project.

Required Skills
Whiting-Turner will train qualified candidates to develop:
  • General knowledge of safety regulations, ANSI standards, local and state building codes, environmental codes, availability of industry-specific codes and guidelines.
  • General knowledge of general construction processes, practices and work sites.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Project, Suretrak, Primavera (or other scheduling software.

Required Experience
Basic qualifications for Entry-Level Engineer candidates include:
  • Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline, Engineering Technology or Construction Management, Construction Technology.
  • Knowledge of engineering principles.
  • Knowledge of basic business principles sufficient to project and monitor expenses.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite including Word and Excel.
  • Ability to read and understand technical specifications, blueprints, technical manuals, product/material installation instructions and engineering/architectural drawings.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Experience with construction projects, mechanical/electrical systems, building materials, building mechanics or working with craft workers.

This job application routes to following locations:
    • Sacramento
    • Pleasanton
    • Millbrae
    • Sherman Oaks
    • Downtown Los Angeles
    • Irvine
    • Temecula
    • San Diego

The Company's salary ranges are dependent on a number of factors including but not limited to role, level and location. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of various factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education and experience, applicant's abilities and market and business considerations. The annual base salary range listed is subject to change at any time, in the Company's discretion, and does not alter in any way the at-will nature of the employment relationship. The foregoing information reflects base salary only and does not include other forms of available compensation to which employees may be entitled including but not limited to profit sharing, stock appreciation rights, retirement compensation, travel subsistence, and other compensations/benefits, which are dependent upon various factors including but not limited to years of service, location, performance, etc.
This salary range is for California only.

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