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Contract Operator Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

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Lompoc, CA ยท On-site

$1.4K/wk

Start Date 09/05/26 Contract Length 3 months Shifts Days Job Type Travel Est. Stipends $1,485/week License Accepted CA About the facility State CA City Lompoc Check Out These Reviews FROM REAL HOST ...

Start Date 09/07/26 Contract Length 3 months Shifts Days Job Type Travel License Accepted CA About the facility State CA City Santa Maria Check Out These Reviews FROM REAL HOST HEALTHCARE TRAVELERS ...

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Contract Operator information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

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$49

How much do contract operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract operator in Santa Maria, CA is $20.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.63 and $22.34 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 Santa Maria, CA?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Operator jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

For Contract Operator jobs in Santa Maria, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Operator jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Operator jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Contract Operator jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Contract Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Operator job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,722 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Contracts Administrator

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Contracts Administrator

Job Summary:

The Contracts Administrator will create and review industry contract agreements. The duties will include negotiating terms and conditions with each party, analyzing potential risks involved with subcontract clauses, helping vendors, employees and leadership better understand and comply with the requirements. The Contracts Administrator will manage the process for contractual documents proceeding efficiently through review and approval processes with the goal of maximizing financial and operational performance and minimizing risk. 

  • Review and/or prepare subcontracts, contracts, agreements, amendments, change orders, business proposals, non-disclosure agreements, rental agreements and other contractual documents. 

  • Take sufficient steps to identify project risks 

  • Liaise with and support the Project Managers to ensure the project is executed in compliance with terms and conditions 

  • Participate in the development of new business proposals, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions. 

  • Ensure compliance with the company’s policies, standards, and procedures 

  • Prepare and review subcontracts in cooperation with Supply Chain and Procurement, insuring flow down of requirements 

  • Prepare monthly project reports and make presentations at meetings 

  • Support negotiations of claims, manage contractual changes and resolve disputes or conflict resolution with Contractors and Customers 

  • Assess and prepare claims from suppliers 

  • Manage contract closeout procedures 

  • Confer with counsel and leadership on items out of the ordinary or carrying significant risk 

  • Support supply chain in supplier and vendor certification and compliance 

  • Assist in debriefings, resolving disputes, claims, litigation and settlements 

  • Ensure completeness of contract files and records. 

Required Qualifications and Duties: 

  • BA/BS degree in contract management, business management, procurement, law or a related field preferred 

  • A minimum of 5 years’ experience in any combination of the following areas: contracts, subcontracts or purchasing. 

  • US Citizenship Required 

  • Demonstrated experience in Project Contract Administration required 

  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret contractual and legal documents, financial reports and technical documents 

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills 

  • Must possess excellent organizational skills, problem solving, and decision-making skills. 

  • A working knowledge of federal government procurement procedures 

  • Good understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations, industrial standard operating procedures (SOPs) and occupational, industrial regulations and law 

  • Ability to maintain integrity and confidentiality while working with purchasing information and other pertinent sensitive information.  

  • Excellent computer skills is a must, including a variety of software applications; tracking/scheduling software and Microsoft Products 

  • Time management, organization, and problem-solving skills 

  • Detail oriented 

Desired Qualifications and Skills:

  • Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) certification desired 

  • Knowledge of operations, program management, project management, product development, and procurement desired 

  • Expertise working with cross-functional teams 

  • Experience in aerospace preferred  

  • Preferred familiar with ISO9001/AS9100 

  • Advanced understanding of purchasing and supply chain procedures 

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks: 

  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families. 

  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off. 

  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families. 

  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage. 

  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses. 

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future. 

  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year. 

  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture. 

  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play! 

Company Overview:

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services. 

At ESAero, we don’t just build products, we engineer solutions that propel the aerospace industry forward. 

**This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA** 

_________________________________________________________________

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer.  
E-Verify participation required for employment.  
Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States.     
Must be able to pass background check and drug test.    
Hiring Range: $75,000-$95,000 Salary/Exempt

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