1

Contract Operator Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

Equipment Operator

Auburn, AL ยท On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

IES Commercial, Inc. - DBA IES Electrical, seeking full-time Equipment Operator in Auburn, Alabama ... contract between that agency and the IES Talent Acquisition organization will become the property ...

Streetlight Bucket Operator ULCS

Woodbury, GA ยท On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Description Streetlighting Bucket Operator ***CDL'S PERFERRED OR WILLING TO GET ONE IN 1ST 90 DAYS ... Excavates to assist in the installation of structures or cables as required by contract ...

Instructor/Operator

Columbus, GA ยท On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

Description MIOSS Instructor/Operator This opportunity is contingent upon contract award. Fort Benning, GA Job Type Full-time Description The Instructor/Operator (I/O) shall provide support of ...

Travel OR RN

Columbus, GA ยท On-site

$1.9K - $2.1K/day

Travel Operating Room Registered Nurse - Operating Room (OR) | Columbus, GA | Contract Quick Look * Weekly Gross Pay: $1,997 - $2,102 * Shift: Day 4x10-Hour (06:30 - 17:00) * Start Date: 09/14/2026

next page

Showing results 1-20

Contract Operator information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$7

$17

$41

How much do contract operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract operator in Columbus, GA is $17.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.69 and $18.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract operator?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract operator?

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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Columbus, GA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Columbus, GA are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Operator jobs in Columbus, GA?

For Contract Operator jobs in Columbus, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Contract Operator jobs?

Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Contract Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Operator job openings in Columbus, GA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 49% 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 $36,160 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Equipment Operator

IES Electrical

Auburn, AL โ€ข On-site

$16 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

IES Commercial, Inc. - DBA IES Electrical, seeking full-time Equipment Operator in Auburn, Alabama.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or work authorization support. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without current or future need for employer sponsorship.
Job Summary
  • Operate forklifts, tele handlers, loaders, and other heavy machinery to move and position construction materials and equipment.
  • Transport electrical components, tools, and other materials to designated areas across project site.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections, basic equipment maintenance, and ensure machinery is in optimal working condition.
  • Assist with loading and unloading of trucks, ensuring materials are properly secured and stored.
  • Collaborate with construction teams to meet project deadlines and support various phases of construction.
  • Follow all safety protocols, OSHA standards, and project-specific regulations to maintain a safe work environment.
  • Assist with general construction tasks as required by site supervisors.

Qualifications
  • Valid forklift certification and/or heavy machinery operator license.
  • 3 years' experience operating forklifts, tele handlers, and other construction equipment in a commercial or industrial setting.
  • Previous experience working on electrical data center projects - is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of construction site safety and equipment operation standards.
  • Ability to read and follow site maps, blueprints, and material handling instructions.
  • Ability to lift various heavy material weights and work in varying environmental conditions.
  • Successfully pass pre-employment (post offer) background check, and MVR check.

Company Overview
IES Commercial, Inc. - DBA IES Electrical, a subsidiary of IES Holdings, Inc. (IES), an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. IES is traded on the NASDAQ under the symbol IESC. IES Commercial, Inc. operates diverse business units across the United States, each focusing on distinct market segments and geographies, with some business units operating nationally. Safety is Priority One - and our record shows it.
Benefits: 401(k) Retirement Plan with company discretionary match, flexible medical-dental-vision insurance, short-term/long-term disability insurance, basic life/AD&D insurance, paid holidays, and highly competitive pay in addition to paid-time-off.
IES is a national provider of industrial products and infrastructure services to a variety of end markets, including electrical, mechanical and communications contracting solutions for the commercial, industrial, residential and renewable energy markets. IES is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol IESC. As of the end of IES's 2025 fiscal year ending September 30, 2025, IES produced over $3.3 billion in revenue and employed over 10,200 employees at over 174 domestic locations across the United States.
Additional Data
PLEASE NO AGENCY CALLS.
NOTE TO ALL AGENCIES: Any unsolicited agency resumes or agency represented candidates that are presented to any IES employee without first having a signed contract between that agency and the IES Talent Acquisition organization will become the property of IES and no fees will be paid.
EEO & Affirmative Action
The IES policy on equal employment opportunity prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, individuals with disabilities, protected veterans, or any other protected status or characteristic. This policy applies to recruiting, hiring, transfers, promotions, terminations, compensation, benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment, and also states that retaliation against any employee who files a complaint regarding possible violations of this policy will not be tolerated. IES is also committed to taking affirmative steps to promote the employment of minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. IES develops affirmative action programs to support its commitment to equal employment opportunity, consistent with company policy and the company's obligations as a contractor to the United States government.
View Your Equal Employment Opportunity rights under the law. "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal; Conozca sus Derechos: La Discriminaciรณn en el Lugar de Trabajo es Ilegal
Disability Accommodation
IES is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. IES provides reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Applicants who need accommodation in the job application process should contact the IES corporate office at (713) 860-1500 or any IES office to request assistance.
IES Participates in E-Verify/IES participa en el programa E-Verify
E-Verify Information/ Informaciรณn sobre E-Verify
English/Espaรฑol
Right to Work/Ley de Derecho al Trabajo
English/Espaรฑol
Workplace Type
Onsite