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Defense Acquisition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Serco USA

Acquisition & PM Prof III

Dayton, OH · On-site

The successful candidate will apply expertise in Defense Acquisition System processes, requirements development, program execution, contracting support, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.

Applied Res

Senior Acquisition Analyst

Tampa, FL · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Working knowledge of the Defense Acquisition System as directed by DoD Instruction 5000.02, "Operation of the Defense Acquisition System" and the Defense Acquisition Framework process All positions ...

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How much do defense acquisition jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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 is a defense acquisition?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in defense acquisition, 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 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:

What job categories do people searching Defense Acquisition jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Acquisition jobs are:

Defense Acquisition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Acquisition job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,954 per year, or $38 per hour.

Defense Acquisition Cost Estimator

Applied Research Solutions

Bedford, MA • On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Applied Research Solutions is seeking a Cost Estimator to support critical Department of Defense acquisition programs. This role will develop, analyze, and evaluate cost estimates to support program planning, budgeting, and acquisition decisions. The ideal candidate will have experience with DoD acquisition and cost estimating processes, strong analytical skills, and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations for program leadership.

Why Work with us?

Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers. 

Responsibilities Include:
  • Use of routine cost estimating methods such as analogy, engineering or scientific methodology, and extrapolation.
  • Use of cost estimating outputs to assess the impact various factors have on the costs to design, research, develop, produce, field, operate, maintain, and dispose of a particular weapon system.
  • Most appropriate phase of the budgetary cycle (planning, programming, justification, execution, etc.) for initiating new programs.
  • Analyze all elements affecting costs for a project of limited scope.
  • Analyze Contractor financial data using EVM measures of merit to determine program viability with respect to cost, schedule, and performance.
  • Use of the Automated Cost Estimating Integrated Tool (ACEIT) Suite to perform all program office estimates and analyses is mandatory use for working in the NC3 Directorate for all cost analysis positions.
  • Analytical processes, such as setting up the problem, conducting background research, collecting, and reducing data, displaying data for analysis, formulating mathematical expressions, and drawing conclusions.
  • Compliance with all cost estimating guidance including the appropriate DoD, Air Force, AFMC, AFNWC, or lower-level policy, publications, supplements, manuals, etc., as well as applicable documents and regulations, systems, processes, and guides, as required.
  • Will perform other duties as assigned.  

Qualifications:

  • Must be a US citizen
  • Clearance: Current Active Top-Secret Clearance 
  • Education: BA/BS degree 
  • Years of Experience:  3+ years of Cost Estimating experience working within a DoD setting

Technical Skills

  • Familiarization with Air Force Cost Estimating practices & techniques 
  • Strong Finance background 
  • Analytical mindset

    The expected annual salary range: $140k-$150k. Salary is dependent upon the role and associated responsibilities, candidate's experience, and qualifications to include education/training, and key skills.

    All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

    This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

    This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.

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