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Operator Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

BrightView Landscapes

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

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 ...

JLL

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

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

$81K - $110K/yr

Job Title Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance ... Operator, etc.) • May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC ...

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 ... Operator, etc.) * May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC ...

JLL

Operating Engineer

San Diego, CA

$38.52/hr

The Operating Engineer supports operation,inspectionand maintenance processes to mechanical,HVAC,electrical and plumbingequipmentand systems. This position requires theOperating Engineerto be on-site.

Sealaska

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

Crane Operator - Classification - Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job Summary: The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on ...

Sealaska

Crane Operator

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$34.41 - $68.18/hr

Crane Operator - Classification - Operating Engineer - Union (OE3) Friction/Conventional Job Summary: The Marine Crane Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of cranes on ...

MalaceHR

Lead Operating Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Lead Operating Engineer Facility Operations What this role involves This position leads engineering operations within a large commercial facility, overseeing building systems performance, maintenance ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOperator Engineer JobsOperator Engineer Jobs in California

Operator Engineer information

See California salary details

$35.5K

$83.9K

$133.2K

How much do operator engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for operator engineer 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 does an operations engineer do?

An operations engineer is responsible for maintaining, monitoring, and optimizing industrial or technical systems to ensure efficient performance. They often work with automation tools, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements, requiring technical skills and sometimes certifications. Their role supports the smooth operation of manufacturing, energy, or technology environments.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineer roles in fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and software engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High-paying engineering positions often require specialized expertise, advanced degrees, and sometimes work in high-cost-of-living areas or on complex projects.

What is an engineer operator?

An operator engineer is a professional responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting industrial equipment, machinery, or systems. They often work in fields such as manufacturing, power generation, or construction, and may require technical training, certifications, and adherence to safety protocols.

What is the difference between Operator Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectOperator EngineerMaintenance Technician
Required CredentialsRelevant certifications, technical training, sometimes an engineering degreeTechnical certifications, trade school diploma, or associate degree
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, power plantsFactories, industrial sites, equipment maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, utilitiesManufacturing, facilities management, industrial sectors

Operator Engineers and Maintenance Technicians often work in similar industrial environments and require technical certifications. Operator Engineers focus on operating and controlling complex machinery, while Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Both roles are essential for smooth plant operations and are frequently searched together by employers and job seekers in industrial sectors.

What are Operator Engineers?

Operator Engineers are professionals responsible for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex machinery and systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and telecommunications. They ensure that equipment runs efficiently and safely, performing routine inspections and making adjustments as needed. Operator Engineers often work alongside other technical staff to diagnose issues and optimize system performance. Their role is critical in minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations within their facilities.

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

To thrive as an Operator Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, process operations, and safety protocols, often supported by a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA, DCS, and industrial automation software is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in monitoring operations and coordinating with teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable operation of industrial systems.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and often in leadership or managerial roles. High-paying engineering positions typically require advanced certifications, a strong track record, and work in industries with high revenue or technical complexity.

What are some common challenges Operator Engineers face when working with automated systems, and how can they be addressed?

Operator Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automated equipment, managing unexpected system failures, and ensuring consistent production quality. Addressing these issues typically involves staying updated with the latest technology, maintaining clear communication with maintenance and engineering teams, and following standardized operating procedures. Continuous training and hands-on experience are essential for quickly diagnosing problems and minimizing downtime, making adaptability and teamwork crucial skills in this role.
What cities in California are hiring for Operator Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Operator Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Operator Engineer jobs in CA? For Operator Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Operator Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operator Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,915 per year, or $40.3 per hour.
Operating Engineer, Journeyman

Operating Engineer, Journeyman

BrightView

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$62.57/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

BrightView Landscapes rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 32 rated gardening and landscaping

Job description

The Best Teams are Created and Maintained Here.
Job Summary
  • 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 equipment to perform a wide range of landscape and irrigation duties
  • Install sprinklers
  • Build irrigation components such as Remote-Control Valve assemblies, Swing Joints, Back Flow devices, etc.
  • Read Blueprints and plan details
  • Use hand equipment with mechanized moving blades such as gas-powered shears
  • Use manual hand tools such as shovels

Education and Experience:
  • No education required.
  • 6 months of operating engineer apprentice experience.

Physical Demands/Requirements:
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Be at least 18 years old (21 if operating company provided vehicles)
  • Possess strong stamina and have the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions including extreme heat and cold.
  • Able to safely operate landscaping equipment (e.g., mowers, trimmers, blowers, edgers).
  • Able to bend, stoop, kneel, twist, stand, walk continuously throughout the day and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
  • Able to perform manual labor using a variety of hand tools (e.g. shovels, rakes)
  • You are able to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (e.g., safety shoes, high-visibility clothing, hand protection, eye protection, hearing protection, head protection)
  • Landscapers who will be operating a BrightView fleet vehicle are required to have a valid driver's license and meet company standards as it relates motor vehicle performance identified on a state issued motor vehicle record check.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends or holidays if needed.
  • Ability to maintain, in your possession at all times, required medications to address any known allergic reactions should they occur.

Work Environment:
  • Work from elevated heights such as an 8" A-frame ladder
  • Ability to work outdoors/indoors in moderate to extreme weather conditions (e.g., temperatures more than 100°F, temperatures below 32°F, various levels of humidity)
  • Ability to work in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
  • Work outdoors near automotive traffic, bodies of water, fumes, dust, mechanical and/or electrical hazards.
  • Ability to work in environments where extended periods of loud noise are present.
  • Ability to work in environments where exposure to allergens such as pollen and rag weed, insects such as bees and spiders and reptiles such as lizards and snakes.

BrightView Landscapes, LLC is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer.
This job description is subject to change at any time.
Compensation Pay Range:
$62.57
BrightView offers a suite or health, wellness, and financial benefits to full-time team members. Benefits offerings for full-time team members include medical, dental, and vision insurance, ancillary and voluntary products, a 401k savings plan with employer contributions, and 6 to 9 company paid holidays per year. Employees may also be eligible to receive paid time off for vacation and/or sick leave, tuition reimbursement, and/or potential variable pay opportunities based on position and performance. A detailed benefits package will be provided during the interview process.
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