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Operating Engineers Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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)

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 ...

Operating Engineer

San Jose, CA

$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)

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)

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 ...

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)

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)

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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Showing results 1-20

Operating Engineers information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$83.9K

$133.2K

How much do operating engineers jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 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.

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 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 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 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:
Infographic showing various Operating Engineers job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,915 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Operating Engineer

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


JLL rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 266 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 153 rated real estate companies


Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.
Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you've got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you're looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.
What this job involves:
Develop your engineering career at JLL!
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 in at least one craft area (Electrical, HVAC, Piping/Plumbing, Hydraulics and/or Central Utility Plant Operations) and be multi-skilled, possess proficient knowledge in others to successfully complete daily/weekly/monthly work assignments.
This position requires the Operating Engineer to be on-site.
Estimated total compensation for this position:
$27-$30 per hour
The total compensation range is an estimate and not guaranteed. An employment offer is based on an applicant's education, experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, internal equity and alignment with market data.
Job Duties
• Perform preventative maintenance, troubleshoot and monitor repairs of the Mechanical, Plumbing, Structural, Furniture, Fire, Life Safety, Hydraulic and Control systems for the facility to keep facilities building and track systems up to applicable standards as assigned.
• Maintains responsibility for facility services, preventative maintenance, purchasing and inventory control, contracted maintenance, general maintenance and technical proficiency.
• Maintenance of the equipment will include cleaning, inspecting, calibrating and changing parts to maintain all facility systems and associated equipment at optimum performance levels.
• Perform duties with minimum supervision.
• Manage and update daily tasks through an electronic work order system.
• Complete special tasks that include but are not limited to painting, locksmith work, tenant services requests, and general maintenance as assigned.
• Comply with policies for the safe storage, usage and disposal of hazardous materials.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Maintain records for work completed in a neat and organized manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Complete Annual Online Safety Training
• Review monthly client service request summaries to pinpoint and correct recurrent operational problems
• Evaluate vendors and suppliers on a regular basis with regard to quality and competitive pricing
• Verify the accuracy of deliveries for count, pricing, and description.
• Perform periodic checks of tool and instrument inventory.
Qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum of 1 year related experience
• Certification in at least 1 of the following disciplines: Electrical, HVAC, Piping/Plumbing, Hydraulics and/or Central Utility Plant Operations.
• Must be able to log in and out of multiple software programs using a laptop and Smart phone to manage and track day to day operations, electronic work orders and email communication.
• Ability to use basic computer programs. Word, Excel, Microsoft Office
• Must be able to independently plan work assignments.
• Must be able to trouble-shoot clearly, calmly and safely in the presence of Guests and fellow Team Members.
• Must be able to perform duties with minimum supervision.
Other Job-related Qualifications
• Ability to lift at least 50lbs
• Ability to use ladders up to 26'
• Must be a team player and self-driven
• Professional conduct at all times
• Dependable
• Ability to communicate effectively in English in both oral and written communications.
• On-Call duties required every other week and weekend.
• Saturday & Sunday shift work required during On-Call
• Must possess the mental and physical capacities necessary to perform the primary job duties.
This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Location:
On-site -Carson, CA
If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet all the requirements. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!
Personalized benefits that support personal well-being and growth:
JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:
  • 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
  • Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
  • Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
  • Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.
JLL Privacy Notice
Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. We take our responsibility to protect the personal information provided to us seriously. Generally the personal information we collect from you are for the purposes of processing in connection with JLL's recruitment process. We endeavour to keep your personal information secure with appropriate level of security and keep for as long as we need it for legitimate business or legal reasons. We will then delete it safely and securely.
For more information about how JLL processes your personal data, please view our Candidate Privacy Statement.
For additional details please see our career site pages for each country.
For candidates in the United States, please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here.
Jones Lang LaSalle ("JLL") is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process - including the online application and/or overall selection process - you may email us at HRSCLeaves@jll.com. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page > I want to work for JLL.
Accepting applications on an ongoing basis until candidate identified.

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