1

Defense Acquisition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Acquisition Analyst

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

ARServices partners with defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies to solve complex national security challenges. Explore opportunities to join our team at Why Work at ARServices? At ...

Acquisition Analyst

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

ARServices partners with defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies to solve complex national security challenges. Explore opportunities to join our team at Why Work at ARServices? At ...

Responsibilities The ideal candidate will apply a deep understanding of the Defense Acquisition System, familiarity with OSW staffing procedures, and a background in DoW weapon systems. The candidate ...

Acquisition Analyst

Tampa, FL ยท Hybrid

$75K - $102K/yr

Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition System as directed by DoD Instruction 5000.02, "Operation of the Defense Acquisition System." * Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition Framework ...

Acquisition Analyst

Tampa, FL ยท Hybrid

$75K - $102K/yr

Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition System as directed by DoD Instruction 5000.02, "Operation of the Defense Acquisition System." * Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition Framework ...

Acquisition Analyst

Tampa, FL ยท On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition System as directed by DoD Instruction 5000.02, "Operation of the Defense Acquisition System." * Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition Framework ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Defense Acquisition information

See salary details

$23.5K

$79K

$158.5K

How much do defense acquisition jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense acquisition in the United States is $78,954.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Acquisition position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Defense Acquisition, you generally need a background in contract management, procurement regulations, and defense or government acquisition processes, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications like DAWIA (Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act). Familiarity with federal procurement tools (such as SAM.gov), contract writing systems, and cost analysis software is highly valued. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities help professionals stand out in this field. These skills ensure compliance, efficient resource allocation, and successful collaboration among multidisciplinary project teams within the defense sector.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities in Defense Acquisition roles?

Defense Acquisition professionals can progress from entry-level analyst or specialist positions to higher-level roles such as program manager, contracting officer, or acquisition executive within government agencies or defense contractors. As you gain experience and additional certifications, you may have opportunities to lead larger, more complex projects or manage entire acquisition programs. The field often encourages professional development through formal training programs, such as those required by DAWIA or similar certifications. Advancement is typically based on a combination of technical expertise, demonstrated leadership, and ability to manage complex procurement processes.

What is a Defense Acquisition job?

A Defense Acquisition job involves managing the procurement of military equipment, technology, and services for the government. Professionals in this field work on budgeting, contracting, and overseeing the lifecycle of defense systems to ensure they meet military requirements. They collaborate with industry partners, ensure compliance with federal regulations, and support national security objectives. These roles exist within organizations such as the Department of Defense (DoD) and defense contractors.

What cities are hiring for Defense Acquisition jobs? Cities with the most Defense Acquisition job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Acquisition jobs? The most popular types of Defense Acquisition jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Acquisition jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Acquisition jobs include:
Senior Acquisition Specialist

Senior Acquisition Specialist

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

El Segundo, CA โ€ข On-site

$135K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Overview
Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) is seeking a Sr Acquisition Specialist with expertise in acquiring highly classified ACAT-like space control systems. This position supports a U.S. Space Force (USSF) program office responsible for managing advanced space control capabilities across space, ground, and command-and-control (C2) mission areas. Work will be performed in secure government environments supporting highly sensitive, mission-critical programs.
Responsibilities
As a Sr Acquisition Specialist, you will provide senior-level support in acquisition planning, execution, and oversight for classified programs. You will assist the government in developing acquisition strategies, coordinating documentation for defense acquisition boards, and managing major source selection activities. You will collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure compliance with DoD acquisition regulations and program objectives.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • Lead and support ACAT-like acquisition planning and execution for classified space control programs.
  • Develop, review, and coordinate all documentation and activities required to support ACAT-like Defense Acquisition Boards.
  • Develop and coordinate all activities and documentation required to support major source selection processes.
  • Ensure acquisition strategies are aligned with program objectives and compliant with DoD acquisition regulations.
  • Coordinate with program, engineering, test, and security teams to facilitate acquisition decisions.
  • Identify acquisition risks and provide evidence-based recommendations to senior government leadership.
  • Prepare and deliver technical and acquisition briefings, status updates, and decision-support materials.
  • Represent the program office in acquisition boards, source selection panels, and cross-organizational forums.

Qualifications
  • Knowledgeable in acquiring highly classified ACAT-like space control systems.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and coordinating acquisition documentation for ACAT-like Defense Acquisition Boards.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and coordinating documentation and activities for major source selections.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience presenting complex acquisition information to senior leadership.

Desired Requirements
  • Experience supporting ACAT I/II or highly classified special access programs.
  • Familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, regulations, milestone reviews, and source selection procedures.
  • Experience with acquisition management tools or systems.

Education Requirements
  • MA/MS degree preferred.
  • Tradeoff: A Bachelor's degree is acceptable with 12+ years of relevant experience in similar programs or positions.
  • The Materiel Leader may waive the MA/MS requirement based on experience and mission needs.
  • Degree should be in engineering, acquisition, business, or a related technical field from an accredited institution.

Clearance Requirements
  • Active TOP SECRET clearance with SCI eligibility required.
  • Must be willing to work in SAP environments as needed.
  • Must maintain TS/SCI eligibility and be willing to undergo a Counterintelligence polygraph.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.

Location/Travel Requirements
  • Full-time on-site support within secure government facilities (SAPF/SCIF).
  • Approximately 15-20% CONUS travel, with potential for limited OCONUS travel depending on mission needs.

For additional company information, please visit: www.mtsi-va.com
The pay range for this position in California is $135,000/year to $195,000/year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on established government contract wages, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, and other factors. MTSI also offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, dependent on the position offered. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via MTSI's internal or external careers site.
#LI-BH1
#MTSI
#MTSIjobs