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Accountant Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Technical Accountant

Austin, TX · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

Monitor new accounting standards and assess applicability and impact on aerospace, defense, and government contracting activities. * Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes ...

IMPACTFUL CORPORATE CONTROLLER for Orange County, PE-backed, multi-entity defense contractor ... Extra points for exposure to DCAA & FAR or CPA/CMA. Confident presentation to partner with ...

IMPACTFUL CORPORATE CONTROLLER for Orange County, PE-backed, multi-entity defense contractor ... Extra points for exposure to DCAA & FAR or CPA/CMA. Confident presentation to partner with ...

Senior Accountant

Peabody, MA · Remote

$75K - $95K/yr

... hypersonic vehicles for defense and commercial applications. BasedinPeabody, MA ... Contracting & Billing Manage government invoicing, including submissions via WAWF/PIEE Assist with ...

Staff Accountant

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Experience supporting finance or accounting operations within government contracting, aerospace, manufacturing, or defense environments * Familiarity with DCAA, FAR, or government accounting ...

Senior Accountant

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... and defense-compliant versions preferred - Familiarity with government contracting and DCAA ... Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred; CPA a plus but not required Schedule and ...

Senior Accountant

Peabody, MA · Remote

$75K - $95K/yr

... for defense and commercial applications. Based in Peabody, MA, Specter leverages advanced ... Contracting & Billing • Manage government invoicing, including submissions via WAWF/PIEE • ...

Showing results 41-60

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 24, 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
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, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,326 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Government Accounting Controller

Government Accounting Controller

Crane Company

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Crane Aerospace and Electronicshas an exciting opportunity for aController at ourFort Walton Beach, FL location.

About Crane:

Crane Aerospace & Electronicssupplies critical systems and components to the aerospace and defense markets. You'll find Crane Aerospace & Electronics in some of the toughest environments: from engines to landing gear; from satellites to medical implants and from missiles to unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Located minutes away from picturesque white-sand beaches and emerald green water, our Crane Aerospace & Electronics Fort Walton Beach location is home to our Defense Power business - a leading supplier of high-power solutions for aerospace & defense applications. You'll join a trusted, dynamic organization that supplies prime defense manufacturers with custom radar, directed energy and electric warfare solutions for placement on innovative, next-gen military platforms. Join us and our growing business as we supply solutions that enable the latest defense technology!

Job Summary:
The Controller is a business partner to the General Manager and plans and directs all aspects of theorganization's financial policies, objectives and initiatives. The Controller is responsible for theattainment of short and long-term financial and operational goals and directs the development of theorganization to ensure future growth. The Controller performs a variety of tasks and leads anddirects the work of others and relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplishgoals. This role is typical for sites <$100m.

Essential Functions:

  • Lead financial teams to obtain goals and meet deadlines while managing continuousimprovement initiatives
  • Supervise accounting personnel including cross training of key personnel
  • Coordinate monthly closing with other departments and address comments and questionsfrom the Executive Leadership team
  • Complete risk assessments for both property and product liability
  • Ensure Sarbanes Oxley controls and monthly certifications are up to date
  • Support and drive CBS initiatives across the site and own Value Stream Map for the Financegroup
  • Coordinate and manage outside audits (Sales Tax, Research & Development (R&D) tax credit,State Tax, Property tax, Federal, City, internal audit)
  • Work with internal auditors to ensure compliance
  • Perform cash flow review, analysis, and monthly financial forecasting
  • Perform monthly financial analysis including commentary and forecasting
  • Provide key metrics with detailed analysis
  • Any other task assigned by supervisor or management


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience: 7+ years in government accounting environment
  • Knowledge: Demonstrated expertise in a variety of the field's concepts, practices, andprocedures; Working knowledge of Oracle; Knowledge of budgeting and financial planning,Government accounting, Wire transfers and certain treasury functions, Buy vs. Make decisionsand Tax accounting (Tax Depreciation, Sales and Operating Profit by geographical locationand R&D tax credit)
  • Skills/Abilities: Expertise in the Microsoft Office Suite; Ability to leverage business decisionsand quickly assess financial impact; Ability to establish and maintain effective workingrelationships with internal staff and outside professionals
  • Education/Certification: BA or BS degree in Finance or Accounting
  • Eligibility Requirement: This position may require access to controlled data or information and therefore only US persons will be considered. As a US Department of Defense contractor, we are bound by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • MBA
  • CPA
  • Experience supervising the work of others

Top Benefits:

As a team member at Crane Aerospace and Electronics, you'll enjoy:

  • Benefits:Health care, dental, vision, life and disability insurance starting the first day of the month
  • Time Off:15 days of paid time off that start accruing your first day at Crane and 11 paid holidays per year.
  • 401k Retirement Plan:401k plan with company match
  • Education Reimbursement:eligible after 6 months of employment

You can see a list of our benefits athttps://www.craneae.com/company/careersor visit our website atwww.CraneAE.comfor more information on our company and great opportunities.

We are committed to operational excellence and world class processes. We employ Lean manufacturing techniquesto optimize manufacturing efficiency and accuracy on all product lines. Our products are known for their technical strength, proven reliability and overall value.

In our efforts to maintain a safe and drug-free workplace, Crane Aerospace & Electronics requires that candidates complete a satisfactory background check. FAA sensitive positions require employees to participate in a random drug test pool.

#LI-CK1 #CAE

This description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work being performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Crane Company. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, general identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.


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About Crane AI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Software development

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

Year founded

2017