ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Operator Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

San Diego, CA

$109K - $143K/yr

Job Title Lead Operating Engineer Summary *LAB OR HOSPITAL EXPERIENCE REQUIRED* Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and maintenance of the mechanical electrical and plumbing systems ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Lead Operating Engineer

San Jose, CA

$120K - $158K/yr

Job Title Lead Operating Engineer Summary Responsible to ensure the proper efficient operations and maintenance of the mechanical electrical and plumbing systems for the assigned facility. The ...

LEE KUM KEE

PLC Operator

La Puente, CA · On-site

$18.50/hr

... engineering team members with routine inspections and preventative maintenance tasks to keep equipment in optimal working condition. • Communicate effectively with supervisors, other operators ...

Scout AI

Mission Operator - Ground Systems

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Mission Operator - Ground Systems Paso Robles, CA The future of defense will be decided by those ... You will operate at the intersection of engineering and mission execution, translating technical ...

Scout AI

Mission Operator - Ground Systems

Paso Robles, CA · On-site

$85K - $140K/yr

Mission Operator - Ground Systems Paso Robles, CA The future of defense will be decided by those ... You will operate at the intersection of engineering and mission execution, translating technical ...

PRIDE Industries

Certified Engineer

Compton, CA

$55.63/hr

Under limited supervision, the Certified Engineer performs the following skilled and technical duties: installing, maintaining, replacing, repairing, operating, or assisting in operating all heating ...

PRIDE Industries

Certified Engineer

Indio, CA

$55.63/hr

Under limited supervision, the Certified Engineer performs the following skilled and technical duties: installing, maintaining, replacing, repairing, operating, or assisting in operating all heating ...

PRIDE Industries

Certified Engineer

Indio, CA

$55.63/hr

Under limited supervision, the Certified Engineer performs the following skilled and technical duties: installing, maintaining, replacing, repairing, operating, or assisting in operating all heating ...

PRIDE Industries

Certified Engineer

Indio, CA

$55.63/hr

Under limited supervision, the Certified Engineer performs the following skilled and technical duties: installing, maintaining, replacing, repairing, operating, or assisting in operating all heating ...

PRIDE Industries

Certified Engineer

Compton, CA · On-site

$55.63/hr

Under limited supervision, the Certified Engineer performs the following skilled and technical duties: installing, maintaining, replacing, repairing, operating, or assisting in operating all heating ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

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 7, 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, Temp-to-hire

Operating Engineer, Temp-to-hire

Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$37/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Department: Academy Campus (Museum)
Reports to: Director, Academy Campus
Job Type: Full-time – Regular                                                                                 
Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt)                          
Workplace Location: Los Angeles – Academy Museum
Compensation: $37.00 per hour
Summary/Objective:
The Operating Engineer supports the operation and maintenance of critical building infrastructure, including mechanical, electrical, and fire/life-safety systems. This position is responsible for monitoring system performance, troubleshooting equipment issues, performing preventive maintenance, and responding to facility needs to help ensure a safe, reliable, and efficient environment for museum operations. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience working with complex building systems and a proactive approach to problem-solving and customer service.
 
This is a six-month, temp-to-hire position.

Essential Functions of the Job:
  • Maintain the mechanical, electrical, and life-safety systems within the museum facility.
  • Operate, maintain, and respond to abnormal conditions in mechanical, electrical, and life-safety systems.
  • Operate the BMS system, troubleshoot issues, and perform controls maintenance.
  • Track and complete preventive and predictive maintenance schedules on schedule and as required in coordination with the facilities team and vendors.
  • Ensure the museum's equipment operates efficiently, including analyzing existing operating conditions to improve overall efficiency and cost reduction.
  • Undertake plumbing and minor building repairs and assist other departments within the museum.
  • Assist the Lead Operating Engineer in technical writing of MOPs and SOPs for preventive and corrective maintenance activities.
  • Work with the workorder database maintenance to resolve issues based on agreed-upon priorities.
  • Be responsible for incident management and report writing.
  • Analyze and solve problems promptly and reduce any critical impact to the facility.
Required Competencies: 
  • Associate degree, technical certification, apprenticeship training, or equivalent hands-on experience in HVAC, mechanical, or electrical maintenance.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in maintaining and troubleshooting commercial or industrial building systems, including experience working in complex or mission-critical environments.
  • Demonstrated ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve issues involving mechanical, electrical, and fire/life-safety systems.
  • Expertise in industrial safety regulations and best practices (lockout/tagout, PPE, arc flash protection, Cal-OSHA, EPA).
  • Experience with CMMS systems (trouble ticket management, maintenance activities and infrastructure projects for work order completion processes).
  • Intermediate proficiency with MS Office suite.
  • Expertise with safe operation and maintenance of several hand, power, and machine tools (drills, saws, presses, meters).
  • Availability to work off-hours should emergencies arise.
  • A commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Journeyman-level experience preferred.
  • Experience in museums, cultural institutions, commercial office buildings, higher education, healthcare facilities, entertainment venues, hospitality environments, data centers, manufacturing facilities, or similar settings preferred.
  • Experience with BMS control logic (Alerton) is strongly preferred.
  • Experience writing MOPs, SOPs, and reports preferred.
Physical Demands:
  • Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to ascend and descend various types of ladders.
  • Ability to occasionally stoop, kneel, crouch, and work in confined spaces.
  • Ability to reach with hands and arms.
  • Ability to move, transport, or position materials weighing up to 50 pounds.
Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved by the Office of People & Culture. 
  

@museumLI

Powered by JazzHR

M0U81dkjhC