ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Accountant Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flyer Defense

Senior Accountant

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

S. defense contractor specializing in the design, development, and global delivery of advanced ... The Senior Accountant will prepare and maintain financial records to track the organization ...

Now CFO

Controller - Aerospace and Defense

Dallas, TX · On-site

Requires a minimum of 5 years of accounting within a defense contractor in a manufacturing environment. * Requires a minimum of 3 years of Controlling within a defense contractor manufacturing ...

Nammo Defense System

Senior GL Accountant

Mesa, AZ

Nammo Defense Systems Inc., a defense contractor, manufactures and supports shoulder-fired systems ... How you will be awarded as a Senior GL Accountant • Competitive Salary • Monday-Thursday work ...

Rivencore US, Inc.

Accounting Assistant

Norfolk, VA

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Accounting Assistant (Part-Time, with Opportunity for Full-Time) Location: Norfolk, Virginia (On ... Experience supporting government contractors or Department of Defense organizations. * Familiarity ...

New

Ametek

Cost Accountant

Oak Ridge, TN

$62K - $83K/yr

This role supports operational and accounting activities, requiring strong organization ... As a cleared defense contractor, AMT also supports U.S. government programs with custom products ...

GWYNEDD

Staff Accountant

North Wales, PA

$53K - $70K/yr

Gwynedd Manufacturing, a growing defense contractor located in North Wales, PA, is a ... Position Summary The Staff Accountant is responsible for maintaining the accuracy and integrity of ...

New

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Staff Accountant

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$52K - $69K/yr

We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and ... Staff Accountant Date: July 8, 2026 Reports To: Director of Finance Summary Federal Equipment ...

Crane Company

Accountant II

Lynnwood, WA

The Accountant II supports the financial health of the organization by performing planning ... As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by International Traffic in Arms Regulations ...

Ametek

Cost Accountant

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$62K - $83K/yr

This role supports operational and accounting activities, requiring strong organization ... As a cleared defense contractor, AMT also supports U.S. government programs with custom products ...

Ultra Maritime

Accountant I

Columbia City, IN · On-site

S. defense contractor, Ultra Maritime maintains strict standards related to integrity, compliance, and security. We operate a drug-free workplace and, where permitted by law, may conduct pre ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAccountant Defense Contractor Jobs

Accountant Defense Contractor information

See salary details

$34K

$68.3K

$108.5K

How much do accountant defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for accountant defense contractor in the United States is $68,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Accountant Defense Contractor vs Cost Accountant?

AspectAccountant Defense ContractorCost Accountant
CertificationsCPA, Security ClearanceCPA, CMA
Work EnvironmentDefense contractors, government projectsManufacturing, corporate finance
Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, governmentManufacturing, corporate sector

Accountant Defense Contractors focus on financial management within defense and government projects, often requiring security clearances. Cost Accountants primarily analyze and control manufacturing costs in corporate settings. While both roles involve accounting principles, their industries, certifications, and work environments differ significantly.

What does an accountant do at a defense contractor?

An accountant at a defense contractor is responsible for managing financial records, ensuring compliance with government regulations, preparing budgets, and analyzing costs related to defense projects. They often work with contracts funded by the Department of Defense or other government agencies, which requires strict adherence to accounting standards such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS). Their work helps ensure that the company meets all legal and financial obligations while maintaining transparency and accountability in the use of government funds.

Can you make $500,000 a year as an accountant?

Accountants working in specialized fields such as forensic accounting, management consulting, or with extensive experience in defense contracting can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially if they hold senior or executive positions. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications like CPA or CMA, strong industry expertise, and working for large firms or government contractors with high-value contracts.

Can you make $100,000 as an accountant?

Accountants working in defense contracting or specialized industries can earn $100,000 or more, especially with experience, certifications like CPA, and advanced skills in financial analysis or auditing. Salaries vary based on location, level of responsibility, and the complexity of the work environment.

What are some unique challenges accountants face when working for a defense contractor compared to other industries?

Accountants in defense contracting must navigate strict government regulations, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), which add complexity to financial reporting and compliance. They often work closely with contract managers and auditors to ensure all financial documentation meets both company and governmental standards. Additionally, managing classified or sensitive financial data requires extra diligence in security and confidentiality. These factors make attention to detail and up-to-date regulatory knowledge especially important in this environment.

Will AI replace accountants by 2050?

As an accountant in the defense contracting industry, AI is expected to automate routine tasks such as data entry and basic financial analysis, allowing professionals to focus on complex decision-making and compliance. While AI will enhance efficiency, it is unlikely to fully replace accountants, who will continue to provide critical judgment, oversight, and strategic advice. Adaptation to new tools and ongoing certification will remain important for job security.

How much do accountants in the military make?

Accountants in the military typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on rank, experience, and years of service. Military accountants often receive additional benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and retirement options, and may need security clearances and specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Accountant in a Defense Contractor organization, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Accountant in a Defense Contractor organization, you need a strong background in accounting principles, government contract compliance, and typically a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP or Deltek, knowledge of FAR/DFARS regulations, and possibly a CPA certification are highly valued. Attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and successful collaboration in a highly regulated and security-sensitive industry.
More about Accountant Defense Contractor jobs
What job categories do people searching Accountant Defense Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Accountant Defense Contractor jobs are:
Accountant Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Accountant Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,326 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Senior Staff Accountant - Defense and Manufacturing

Senior Staff Accountant - Defense and Manufacturing

AMBAC International

Elgin, SC • On-site

$60K - $73K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

AMBAC INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
Senior Staff Accountant, with a strong growth track
Full-Time / On-Site, Elgin SC  |  Relocation available for the right candidateWho we areAMBAC International is a 100-year-old, employee-owned precision manufacturing company. We’re best known for precision fuel injection systems for heavy-duty diesel engines.
The employee-owned part isn’t decoration. Our goal is that every person here owns a piece of what they build through our ESOP. Our financials aren’t locked in an executive’s drawer. They’re on the wall. We practice Great Game of Business: open books, shared scoreboards, and a team that understands how the company makes money. It’s different, in a good way.
If you’ve ever wanted your accounting work to actually matter to the people around you, this is that place.The RoleWe’re hiring a Staff Accountant to help run financial operations in a government contracting environment. This is a Controller-track role. We’re saying that out loud because we’re building the finance function AMBAC needs for the next decade, and we’d rather hire the right person now than backfill a seat later.
You’ll start by owning the fundamentals alongside our current Controller, who’ll be your mentor. You’ll also be expected to understand why the numbers matter, connect them to the business, and over time lead and teach the numbers to others.
Reports to: Controller initially, with a direct line to the President as you grow into the role.What you’ll do
  • Own month-end and year-end close
  • Prepare and record journal entries: accruals, prepaids, adjustments
  • Reconcile general ledger accounts and resolve discrepancies
  • Support AP, AR, and payroll operations
  • Handle inventory accounting, standard costing, and variance analysis
  • Ensure GAAP compliance and support internal, external, and DCAA audits
  • Prepare financial reports and partner on variance analysis
  • Help maintain and improve internal controls
  • Translate shop-floor activity into financial insight the operations team can actually use
  • Contribute to our GGOB huddles: scoreboards, forecasts, and the weekly story the numbers tell
As you grow
  • Lead budgeting and forecasting with department heads
  • Develop and refine the financial scoreboards that run our GGOB system
  • Document accounting policies and build stronger internal controls
  • Supervise and develop junior accounting staff
  • Move into full Controller responsibility: financial oversight, strategic analysis, and direct reporting to the President
What we’re looking forRequired
  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
  • 4+ years of accounting experience, manufacturing strongly preferred
  • Strong grasp of GAAP and general ledger management
  • Comfortable in ERP systems; Excel proficiency well beyond basic formulas
  • Audit or compliance-focused experience
  • Accurate and efficient. Attention to detail that doesn’t slow you down
Preferred
  • Defense, aerospace, or government contracting experience
  • Familiarity with OEM and/or FAR, CAS operations
  • Job shop, contract manufacturing, or mixed-revenue environments
  • Cost accounting, inventory valuation, or standard costing exposure
  • Familiarity with Great Game of Business or open-book management
Who you are
  • Intellectually curious about why the business works the way it does
  • Comfortable asking questions and flagging problems early
  • Willing to teach and develop the team around
  • Aspire to grow into something bigger
Compensation and benefits
  • Competitive salary, commensurate with experience (range shared in first conversation)
  • ESOP and 401K
  • Health, dental, and vision
  • PTO and paid holidays
  • Continuing education support
  • Relocation assistance available for the right candidate

AMBAC International is an equal opportunity employer.
 

Powered by JazzHR

eJRduIJWvl