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Operating Engineers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JLL

Operating Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA

$74K - $100K/yr

Operating Engineer - JLL What this job involves: This Operating Engineer role puts you at the heart of facility operations, where your technical expertise ensures critical building systems run ...

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.

Operating Engineer

Carson, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

The Operating Engineer will have a strong focus on operating, maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing facility equipment on all systems. Individuals are expected to demonstrate technical expertise ...

BrightView Landscapes

Operating Engineer

San Diego, CA

$73K - $99K/yr

The Operating Engineer is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers ...

BrightView

Operating Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

The Operating Engineer is responsible for operating heavy equipment in a safe and appropriate manner. Heavy equipment may include trucks, front end loaders, dozers, graders, compactors, trenchers ...

BrightView

Operating Engineer, Journeyman

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$62.57/hr

The Operating Engineer/Journeyman is responsible for managing the installation of upgrades for commercial landscape maintenance accounts. Duties and Responsibilities: * Use hand and/or power tools or ...

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc.

Operating Engineer

Brea, CA · On-site

$55K - $57K/yr

Building Engineer - JLL What this job involves: As a Building Engineer at JLL, you will play a ... You will install, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical operating equipment and machinery ...

JLL

Operating Engineer

Brea, CA

$55K - $57K/yr

Building Engineer - JLL What this job involves: As a Building Engineer at JLL, you will play a ... You will install, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical operating equipment and machinery ...

JLL

Lead Operating Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$34/hr

Lead Operating Engineer - Healthcare - JLL What this job involves: As a Lead Operating Engineer in Healthcare at JLL, you will serve as a critical leader within our facilities operations team ...

JLL

Operating Engineer

Carson, CA

$30/hr

The Operating Engineer will have a strong focus on operating, maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing facility equipment on all systems. Individuals are expected to demonstrate technical expertise ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$81K - $110K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s)

Cushman & Wakefield

Operating Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s)

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All JobsOperating Engineers JobsOperating Engineers Jobs in California

Operating Engineers information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$83.9K

$133.2K

How much do operating engineers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for operating engineers in California is $83,915.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $92,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do operating engineers make in the US?

Operating engineers in the US typically earn a median annual wage of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Experienced operators with certifications and skills in heavy machinery can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000 annually.

What types of equipment do Operating Engineers typically work with, and how does this variety impact their daily responsibilities?

Operating Engineers commonly work with heavy machinery such as bulldozers, cranes, excavators, loaders, and graders. The type and size of equipment can vary depending on the project, which means Operating Engineers must be adaptable and prepared to switch between machines as needed. This variety adds to the complexity of their daily tasks, requiring strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues quickly. Collaboration with site supervisors, maintenance teams, and other construction workers is also a key part of their routine to ensure smooth operation and project progress.

What are Operating Engineers?

Operating Engineers are skilled professionals who operate and maintain heavy machinery and equipment used in construction, infrastructure, and industrial projects. Their responsibilities commonly include handling cranes, bulldozers, excavators, loaders, and other heavy equipment. Operating Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that these machines are used safely and efficiently on job sites. In addition to operating equipment, they may also be responsible for basic maintenance and troubleshooting to keep machinery in good working order.

What do operations engineers do?

Operations engineers are responsible for managing and maintaining industrial equipment, machinery, or systems to ensure efficient and safe operation. They often troubleshoot issues, perform routine inspections, and may operate heavy machinery or control systems, requiring technical skills and certifications. Their work environment can include construction sites, manufacturing plants, or infrastructure facilities.

What is the difference between Operating Engineers vs Heavy Equipment Operators?

AspectOperating EngineersHeavy Equipment Operators
CredentialsCommercial driver’s license (CDL), certifications for specific machineryTypically require OSHA training, sometimes CDL
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, power plantsConstruction sites, mining, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, energy sectorsConstruction, mining, infrastructure

Operating Engineers and Heavy Equipment Operators often share similar roles, working with heavy machinery on construction and industrial sites. Operating Engineers usually have broader certifications and may operate a wider range of equipment, including complex machinery like cranes. Heavy Equipment Operators focus primarily on operating specific types of heavy machinery. Both roles are essential in construction and industrial projects, with overlapping skills but different certification requirements and scope of work.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Operating engineers typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are more common among specialized or executive-level engineers in fields like petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes management responsibilities. Most operating engineers' salaries are below this threshold, though top earners in certain industries or with significant overtime can approach high six-figure incomes.

What engineers make $500,000?

Operating engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized engineering roles like petroleum or software engineers with extensive experience and advanced skills. Most operating engineers earn a median salary significantly below that figure, though top earners in certain high-demand sectors or with extensive overtime and management responsibilities can approach higher six-figure incomes.

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

To thrive as an Operating Engineer, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols, usually supported by a high school diploma, apprenticeship, or relevant trade certification. Familiarity with heavy equipment such as bulldozers, cranes, and computerized control systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and precise operation of heavy machinery on construction sites or in industrial environments.
What are popular job titles related to Operating Engineers jobs in California? For Operating Engineers jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Operating Engineers jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Operating Engineers jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Operating Engineers jobs? Cities in California with the most Operating Engineers job openings:
Operating Engineers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operating Engineers job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,915 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Operating Engineer (Union)

Operating Engineer (Union)

D-Line Constructors, Inc.

Oakland, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
D-line Constructors routinely hires Union labor to support the team. If you qualify for the role of Operating Engineer you will hear from the hiring team within 1 week of your application submission. The following is an overview of our application process:
  1. Complete the application process by submitting a resume
  2. Once you submit your application you will be prompted to complete the Culture Index Questionnaire - THIS IS REQUIRED This is a series of questions that helps the hiring team learn about applicant perception, values and behaviors to help us assess if the applicant will be a good fit for the role.
  3. If you are qualified for the role and have the relevant Culture Index profile we are looking for, you will have a call with the hiring manager who is D-Line's Field Operations Manager.

Position Description
D-Line Constructors
Company Overview
D-Line is a quality driven, relationship-minded, general engineering contractor. Our mission statement is, "We Build Relationships". This represents our company culture as well as our attitude towards all external stakeholders with whom we interact. We pride ourselves on delivering timely and superior construction services to our clients, which always results in repeat business. Success on a project is achieved by pre-planning, communication, and operational execution. We self-perform a full range of civil construction services for public and private infrastructure projects that include: demolition, earthwork, grading, paving, site utilities, and environmental habitat restorations.
Purpose - Why We Exist
To Build and Serve Lasting Relationships
Mission - The Pinnacle: The Top of Our Mountain
To be the most sought after trade contractor by our customers, while being recognized by our employees as the best place to work
Core Business
Self performance construction services
D-Line Constructors Core Values
  • Put the Cherry on Top - We exist to serve our customers, our coworkers, and our community. We take pride in our work. We go the extra mile.
  • No Bullshit - We don't overpromise. We build trust. We honor commitments. We stand behind our work.
  • Dig In - We work harder. We are relentless problem solvers. We never give up. We raise the bar.
  • With Passion - We are driven by continuous improvement. We are grateful, curious, and focused. We don't harbor complacency.

D-Line is seeking a Operating Engineer to join the team!
Position Requirements
Subject to CBA
Equal Opportunity Employer
D-Line Constructors is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, knowledge, skill, ability, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable laws. We value diversity and believe that a diverse workforce drives innovation and success.

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