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Union Building Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ABM Industries

Lead Building Engineer (Union)

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

Building Management Communications Specifically, the Engineer will perform the following duties: * Team management (which includes multiple locations) daily stand-up, create schedules, track PTO ...

ABM Industries

Non-Union Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

The Building Engineer is responsible for ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of building systems, equipment, and infrastructure. This role involves troubleshooting and resolving ...

ABM Industries

Maintenance Attendant

Anaheim, CA

$25.19/hr

The Building Engineer supports the designated leadership with the daily operations of all building ... This is a union position and will include benefits as outlines in the collective bargaining ...

ABM Industries

Non-Union Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

The Building Engineer is responsible for ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of building systems, equipment, and infrastructure. This role involves troubleshooting and resolving ...

CBRE

Union Engineer

Valencia, CA · On-site

$96K/yr

As a CBRE Union Engineer, you will be a part of a team responsible for a site's equipment ... Building Operations & Experience (facilities management, property management, flex space ...

ABM Industries

Non-Union Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

The Building Engineer is responsible for ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of building systems, equipment, and infrastructure. This role involves troubleshooting and resolving ...

ABM Industries

Maintenance Attendant

Anaheim, CA

$25.19/hr

The Building Engineer supports the designated leadership with the daily operations of all building ... This is a union position and will include benefits as outlines in the collective bargaining ...

ABM Industries

Maintenance Attendant

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$25.19/hr

The Building Engineer supports the designated leadership with the daily operations of all building ... This is a union position and will include benefits as outlines in the collective bargaining ...

CBRE

Union Relief Engineer

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$72.93/hr

Temporary role As a CBRE Union Stationary Engineer, you will be responsible for working, repairing ... Plan, assemble, install, maintain, and repair building systems. Provide system support and ...

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Union Building Engineer information

See California salary details

$17

$31

$51

How much do union building engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for union 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 are Union Building Engineers?

Union Building Engineers are skilled professionals responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of building systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing, and electrical systems, in commercial or residential properties. They are members of a labor union, which often provides them with benefits like collective bargaining, job security, and specialized training. Their daily tasks include troubleshooting equipment, performing preventive maintenance, and ensuring that facilities operate efficiently and safely. Union Building Engineers play a critical role in maintaining the comfort and functionality of buildings, often working closely with property managers and other maintenance staff.

What is the difference between Union Building Engineer vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectUnion Building EngineerMaintenance Technician
CertificationsRelevant HVAC, electrical, or plumbing licenses; often union-certifiedBasic HVAC, electrical, or plumbing certifications; may be non-union
Work EnvironmentLarge commercial or institutional buildings, unionized settingsVariety of settings including residential, commercial, or industrial
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in unionized facilities like hospitals, schools, government buildingsWidely used across industries, often non-union

The Union Building Engineer typically has union certifications and works in large, unionized facilities maintaining complex building systems. Maintenance Technicians often have similar certifications but work in a broader range of environments, including non-union settings. The key difference lies in union affiliation and the scope of responsibilities within large institutional buildings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Union Building Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Union Building Engineer, you need a strong background in building systems maintenance, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, often backed by a technical diploma and union apprenticeship or journeyman status. Familiarity with building automation systems, preventative maintenance software, and relevant safety certifications such as OSHA are typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, reliability, and effective communication set standout candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient building operations and rapid response to maintenance issues, which are critical for occupant comfort and regulatory compliance.

What are some typical challenges faced by Union Building Engineers when managing older facilities?

Union Building Engineers working in older facilities often encounter challenges such as outdated mechanical systems, limited access to replacement parts, and the need to comply with current safety and energy regulations. Troubleshooting legacy HVAC, electrical, or plumbing systems requires both technical expertise and creative problem-solving. Collaboration with vendors, contractors, and the facilities management team is essential to prioritize upgrades while minimizing downtime for tenants or building occupants.
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 cities in California are hiring for Union Building Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Union Building Engineer job openings:
Union Building Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Building Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,404 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
[UNION] Mobile Building Engineer - San Jose

[UNION] Mobile Building Engineer - San Jose

Cushman & Wakefield

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Cushman & Wakefield rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 160 rated real estate companies

Job description

Job Title
[UNION] Mobile Building Engineer - San Jose
Job Description Summary
Responsible to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment and systems for the assigned property(s). Responsibilities include (but are not limited to) maintaining a clean and safe working environment, performing rounds, conducting routine assessments, performance of day-to-day preventive and corrective maintenance, painting, and housekeeping for assigned properties.
Job Description
Job Description:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Perform all plumbing, electrical, or HVAC requirements of the building(s)
  • Maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps, fan coil units, VAV, and air distribution systems, etc.
  • Monitor and adjust all mechanical/pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and other equipment necessary to provide a comfortable environment for the buildings
  • Verify field conditions and perform any necessary repairs or adjustments
  • Monitor Energy Management
  • Repair doors, ceilings, hand railings, and floors and other general repairs, adjustments and installations about the property
  • Perform repairs to plumbing fixtures (water closets, urinals, flush valve assemblies, lavatories, etc.)
  • Perform preventive maintenance duties in accordance with C&W standards, building protocol, manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. including changing filters, cleaning coils, flushing condensers, punching tubes, greasing fan, pump and motor bearings as required, inspecting and adjusting belts, replacing motor bearings, aligning pulleys and shafts, monitor condenser, chilled, heating and secondary water chemical treatment and its associated feed equipment, clean and maintain cooling towers, and perform annual inspections and other scheduled routines as directed.
  • Inspect engine room equipment, fan room equipment, cooling tower, all motors, house pumps, electric rooms, back-up generator, fire pump(s), sump pump(s), and ejector pumps. Replace lamps, light fixtures, reinstall or replace signage, verify rooms are clean and clear of obstructions and debris
  • Check for properly operating emergency exit signs and lights and ensure free and clear access to emergency stairs and exits. Perform additional fire and life safety inspections as per NFPA and local jurisdiction, C&W standards, building protocol and as directed by superiors and property management
  • Document and report activities to supervisor
  • Respond immediately to emergency situations (fire, evacuation, equipment failure, etc.) and customer concerns
  • Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as relates to building operations and practice safe work habits
  • Complete all required C&W Safety Training as scheduled annually
  • Comply with C&W Uniform Dress Code while working and maintain a neat and clean appearance while on the property at times other than working hours

KEY COMPETENCIES
  • Technical Proficiency
  • Initiative
  • Flexibility
  • Multi-Tasking
  • Sense of Urgency

IMPORTANT EDUCATION
  • High School Diploma of GED Equivalent
  • Graduate of apprentice program or trade school preferred

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 5+ years of related work experience in operating mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a commercial property setting
  • Appropriate license/permit for trade as may be required, i.e. Journeyman or Master Electrician License or City Licenses, such as Refrigeration Certificate of Fitness, High Pressure Boiler License, High Pressure Steam Operator, etc.)
  • MUST have Universal EPA or CFC certification
  • Possess and maintain a valid driver's license and good driving record with periodic checks (where applicable)
  • Basic Computing Skills in Outlook, Excel & Word

IDEAL CANDIDATE BCKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Ability to lift 50-80LBS
  • Ability to climb a 30-foot ladder / climb on roofs
  • Prior experience with electrical work
  • Knowledge and experience with baluster lighting replacement
  • Experience replacing compressor, recover, recharge, and evacuated all HVAC systems
  • Proven ability to maintain heating equipment, chillers (air and/ or water cooled), DX units, pumps, fan coil units, VAV, and air distribution systems, etc.
  • Replace heat exchangers
  • Familiar with water source heat pumps
  • Monitor and adjust all mechanical/pneumatic equipment, steam stations, control gauges, distributor panels, valves, thermostats, diffusers, and other equipment necessary to provide a comfortable environment for the buildings.

Cushman & Wakefield also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health, vision, and dental insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life, and disability insurance programs, and paid and unpaid time away from work. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, Cushman and Wakefield provide eligible employees with competitive pay, which may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, total hours worked, job type, business line, and applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
The compensation that will be offered to the successful candidate will depend on factors such as whether the position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the geographic area in which the work will be performed, market pay rates in that area, and the candidate's experience and qualifications.
The company will not pay less than minimum wage for this role.
The compensation for the position is: $61.99 - $72.93
Cushman & Wakefield is an Equal Opportunity employer to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position at Cushman & Wakefield, please call the ADA line at 1-888-365-5406 or email Accommodations@cushwake.com. Please refer to the job title and job location when you contact us.
INCO: "Cushman & Wakefield"

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