ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Operator Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

defi AUTO LLC

Contracts Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

The Manager, Contract Administration provides administrative and legal support in a corporate setting operating with a high degree of autonomy. Acting as legal liaison you provide counsel to contract ...

United Dredging

Operator 2

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Operator 2 Compensation: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour (depending on experience) Position Summary ... contract of employment or guarantee of continued employment.

Alliance Water Resources

Operator I

Maquoketa, IA · On-site

Alliance Water Resources is a growing water and wastewater contract operations company seeking a full-time Operator for the water and wastewater treatment plant in our Maquoketa, IA division.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Operator JobsContract Operator Jobs in Iowa

Contract Operator information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$18

$44

How much do contract operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract operator in Iowa is $18.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.37 and $20.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Contract Operator vs Plant Operator?

AspectContract OperatorPlant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires relevant certifications or licenses, such as OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingRequires similar certifications, often including OSHA safety training and operational licenses
Work EnvironmentOften works on temporary or project-based sites, may be contracted through staffing agenciesUsually employed directly by the facility, working on ongoing operations
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in oil & gas, manufacturing, and energy sectors for short-term or specialized rolesStandard role in industrial plants, refineries, and manufacturing facilities

In summary, Contract Operators and Plant Operators share similar certifications and work environments, but Contract Operators typically work on temporary projects or contracts, while Plant Operators are usually employed directly by the facility for ongoing operations.

What are contract operators?

Contract operators are professionals hired on a contractual basis to manage and oversee the daily operations of facilities, equipment, or processes, often in industries like oil and gas, utilities, or manufacturing. They are responsible for ensuring that operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently according to established standards and regulations. Unlike permanent employees, contract operators work for a specific period or project duration and may serve multiple clients or sites. Their duties can include monitoring equipment, performing maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and completing necessary documentation.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Operators in managing multiple client sites?

Contract Operators often oversee operations at several client locations, which can present challenges such as balancing competing priorities, adapting to different facility protocols, and ensuring consistent safety and compliance standards. Effective time management and strong communication skills are essential to address diverse operational needs and client expectations. Additionally, staying up-to-date with regulatory requirements and quickly resolving issues at various sites can be demanding but also rewarding for those who thrive in dynamic environments.

What jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Contract operators in industries like oil and gas, construction, or manufacturing can earn $10,000 or more monthly through skilled work, experience, and sometimes overtime. High-paying roles often require technical skills, certifications, or specialized training rather than a college degree, and income depends on the industry, location, and workload.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Contract operators in specialized industries such as oil and gas, construction, or high-level consulting can sometimes earn $2,000 or more per day, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in remote or high-risk environments. These roles often require technical skills, safety training, and the ability to work long or irregular hours.

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

To thrive as a Contract Operator, you generally need a solid understanding of process operations, safety protocols, and basic mechanical or technical knowledge, often gained through experience or vocational training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, process control software, and industry certifications such as OSHA or HAZMAT are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These qualifications ensure safe and efficient operations, regulatory compliance, and quick response to any issues in industrial or oil and gas environments.

What contract job pays the most?

Contract operators in high-demand industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or information technology often earn the highest wages due to specialized skills and certifications. Senior or specialized roles, like contract project managers or technical specialists, typically command higher pay rates, especially when requiring advanced knowledge of tools and safety protocols. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and industry demand.

What is a contract operator?

A contract operator is a worker hired on a temporary basis under a contract to operate equipment, machinery, or systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or utilities. They typically follow safety protocols, use specific tools, and may require certifications or training relevant to their role. Contract operators often work in shifts and are responsible for maintaining operational efficiency and safety standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Contract Operator jobs in Iowa? For Contract Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Contract Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Contract Operator jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Contract Operator job openings:
Contract Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Operator job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 17% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,479 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Local Contract Operating Room Nurse

Local Contract Operating Room Nurse

Stability Healthcare

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Contractor

Medical, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Stability Healthcare is seeking a local contract nurse RN OR - Operating Room for a local contract nursing job in Des Moines, Iowa.

Job Description & Requirements
  • Specialty: OR - Operating Room
  • Discipline: RN
  • Duration: 13 weeks
  • 40 hours per week
  • Shift: 10 hours, flexible
  • Employment Type: Local Contract

Stability Healthcare is looking for a OR RN contract position in Des Moines, IA. Also known as perioperative nurses, operating room (OR) nurses provide care for patients before, during, and after surgical procedures. Perioperative nurses work in every type of healthcare facility.

*$600 travel bonus *Day 1 health insurance with United Healthcare *PTO plan -- start accruing on day 1, use during contract or cash out at the end! *Guaranteed stipend if facility calls you off *Extra hour bonus -- earn an additional hourly bonus for working over your weekly contracted hours

Stability Job ID #L-853562. Pay package is based on 10 hour shifts and 40 hours per week (subject to confirmation) with tax-free stipend amount to be determined. Posted job title: OR

About Stability Healthcare

Stability Healthcare was founded in 2009, with the mission of becoming the best Travel Nursing Agency in California. We have been rated one of the top travel nursing agencies and offer our nurses the highest paying travel nursing jobs available. We have access to the best travel assignments from 1000’s of facilities.

You can start the year off in sunny California, spend the Spring in the Colorado Rockies, enjoy the Summer in the Mid-West, experience the change of seasons in Boston and New York, and hit the beaches of Florida in the winter. Our Nurses work in the best hospitals and health systems in the country.

Benefits
  • Guaranteed Hours
  • Benefits start day 1
Stability Healthcare logo

About Stability Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Stability Healthcare was founded in 2009, with the mission of becoming the best Travel Nursing Agency in California. We have been rated one of the top travel nursing agencies and offer our nurses the highest paying travel nursing jobs available. We have access to the best travel assignments from 1000's of facilities. You can start the year off in sunny California, spend the Spring in the Colorado Rockies, enjoy the Summer in the Mid-West, experience the change of seasons in Boston and New York, and hit the beaches of Florida in the winter. Our Nurses work in the best hospitals and health systems in the country.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2009

View All Stability Healthcare Jobs

Apply