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Project Manager Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

Griffith Company

Project Manager

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$125K - $180K/yr

The Project Manager will plan, direct and coordinate engineering and scheduling activities of designated projects. Essential Functions * Plan, organize and manage the field team with the Division ...

Griffith Company

Project Manager

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$125K - $180K/yr

The Project Manager will plan, direct and coordinate engineering and scheduling activities of designated projects. Essential Functions * Plan, organize and manage the field team with the Division ...

Atlas Copco

Aftermarket Project Manager

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$106K - $166K/yr

Your role As an Aftermarket Project Manager at Atlas Copco Mafi-Trench Company LLC, you will play a pivotal role in steering customer-centric projects from initiation to successful completion within ...

Atlas Copco

Aftermarket Project Manager

Santa Maria, CA · On-site +1

$106K - $166K/yr

Your role As an Aftermarket Project Manager at Atlas Copco Mafi-Trench Company LLC, you will play a pivotal role in steering customer-centric projects from initiation to successful completion within ...

Atlas Copco

Aftermarket Project Manager

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$106K - $166K/yr

Your role As an Aftermarket Project Manager at Atlas Copco Mafi-Trench Company LLC, you will play a pivotal role in steering customer-centric projects from initiation to successful completion within ...

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Project Manager information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$39.5K

$105.3K

$166.1K

How much do project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for project manager in Santa Maria, CA is $105,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $126,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a project manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Project Managers play a central role in coordinating efforts across various departments such as engineering, marketing, finance, and operations. They facilitate regular meetings, set clear expectations, and ensure all stakeholders are aligned on project goals, timelines, and deliverables. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills are crucial, as Project Managers often bridge gaps between different teams to keep the project on track. This collaborative approach helps to identify potential issues early and fosters a cohesive team environment.

What is the difference between Project Manager vs Business Analyst?

AspectProject ManagerBusiness Analyst
CertificationsPMP, CAPMCBAP, CCBA
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, manages teamsAnalyzes business needs, documents requirements
Industry UsageCommon in IT, construction, engineeringCommon in IT, finance, healthcare
Primary FocusProject delivery, timelines, budgetsBusiness process, requirements, solutions

The main difference between a Project Manager and a Business Analyst is their focus. Project Managers oversee project execution, timelines, and team coordination, while Business Analysts focus on understanding business needs and defining requirements. Both roles are essential in project success but serve different functions within the project lifecycle.

How do I become a project manager?

To become a project manager, you typically need a combination of education, such as a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field, and relevant experience in project coordination or team leadership. Earning certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) can improve job prospects, and strong skills in communication, organization, and using project management tools are essential for success.

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

To thrive as a Project Manager, you need strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills, often supported by a degree in business or a related field and relevant project management experience. Familiarity with project management software (like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Jira) and certifications such as PMP or PRINCE2 are typically required. Excellent communication, adaptability, and conflict resolution skills help you lead diverse teams and manage stakeholder expectations. These skills ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the desired quality, driving organizational success.

Is it hard to find a job as a project manager?

Finding a job as a project manager can vary depending on industry demand, experience, and certifications like PMP or Agile. Strong communication, leadership skills, and proficiency with project management tools improve employability, but competition can be high in some regions or sectors.

What does a project manager do?

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing projects to ensure they are completed on time, within budget, and meet the required quality standards. They coordinate between different teams, manage resources, set deadlines, and handle any issues that arise during the project lifecycle. Project Managers also communicate progress to stakeholders and adjust plans as needed to achieve project goals.

How do you become a project manager?

To become a project manager, individuals typically need a combination of education, such as a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field, and relevant experience in project coordination or team leadership. Earning certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) can enhance job prospects, and strong skills in communication, organization, and leadership are essential for success in the role.
More about Project Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Project jobs in Santa Maria, CA? The most popular types of Project jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Project Manager jobs? Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Project Manager job openings:
Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Manager job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,253 per year, or $50.6 per hour.

Project Manager

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Project Manager
Job Summary:
ESAero utilizes a project team methodology to execute engineering contracts. Projects are managed by a combination of a Project Manager and a Lead Engineer. The Project Manager handles customer facing project administration and is responsible for driving project performance and results. The Lead Engineer has overall responsibility for all the technical aspects of each project.
Responsibilities and Duties:
  • Managing customer relationships and expectations, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Understanding contractual requirements and making sure they are met.
  • Developing and managing project schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
  • Identifying risks to budget and schedule and orchestrating risk mitigation plans,
  • Reporting project status to external customer(s), the project team, and senior leadership.
  • Working with cost accounting to ensure accurate project performance and projections.
  • Ensure that project tasking remains within agreed upon scope.
  • Develop initial or follow-on quotes, SOWs, and proposals.
  • Initiate customer interaction to get contracts modified in the event of any changes to the contracted project scope.
  • Coordinate any sub-contracting and/or outsourcing.
  • Develop Statements of Work (SOW), project plans, schedules and budgets.
  • Ensure all regulatory and customer requirements are considered and executed in the project plan.
  • Define deliverables and work with customers to finalize acceptance criteria.
  • Define resource requirements and work with other ESAero management to secure the resources required for successful project execution

Project Manager will coordinate with Quality Assurance and the Chief Engineer to:
  • Develop a quality plan for each project and ensure its execution.
  • Identify and execute traceability requirements, inspection requirements, test requirements and FAI requirements
  • Ensure all quality requirements have been met prior to delivery.

Project Manager will coordinate with the Manufacturing/Operations leads and the lead Engineer to:
  • Identify and secure machine availability, machinist, assembly, material handling, and test personnel to support project deliverables and schedules.
  • Identify and secure enough space and the appropriate equipment needed to support the project team.
  • Identify any training requirements needed by the project team and/or manufacturing personnel in support of the project team, and ensure the training is conducted timely.

Required Qualifications and Skills:
  • Due to Federal Government Contracts US Citizenship or Permanent Resident Card is required
  • Demonstrated experience in Project and/or Program Management is required.
  • BA/BS degree in engineering, or a technical related field; MA/MS or MBA degree preferred
  • Formal project management education or training
  • 5-7+ years' experience in any combination of the following areas: program management, project management, engineering, quality, contracts, operations, procurement and/or supplier management.
  • Excellent computer skills are a must, including a variety of software applications; experience with project management software like Microsoft Project tracking/scheduling software
  • Expertise working with cross-functional teams.
  • Experience in aerospace program management is preferred.
  • Experience with financial forecasting
  • Responsible for promoting actively an ethics-based business culture in his/her project team(s), ensuring that all associates are aware of, and fully comply with, ESAero's "Code of Ethics," and related policies.

Desired Qualifications and Skills:
  • Must possess solid organizational skills and attention to detail
  • MRP/ERP experience a plus
  • Disciplined execution of processes and systems
  • Familiar with ISO9001/AS9100
  • Knowledge of ASTM workmanship standards
  • Ability to read engineering drawings
  • Knowledge of DFAR, TINA, ITAR a plus

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 be able to pass background check and drug test.
Hiring Range: $140k - $180k Salary/Exempt

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