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Defense Contract Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Defense Mission Expert

Peterson, IA · On-site

$86K - $198K/yr

Defense Mission Expert The Opportunity: As an expert in defense missions, your unique background ... as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected ...

Program Mgr I

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

Develop and execute go-to-market strategies to capture new defense contracts. * Cultivate strong relationships and serve as the primary interface with the customer. * Lead proposal efforts, bid and ...

Customer Service 3

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21.25/hr

Associate - W2 Shift: 1 PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking a Customer Service 3, in Cedar Rapids, IA. Job ... M-F, 8a-5p CST with some flexibility Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your ...

Senior Program Manager

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$115K - $115K/yr

Strong understanding of government contracting, defense programs, and customer contract execution. * Advancedleadership skills with the ability to influence executive stakeholders and cross ...

Senior Program Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$113K - $114K/yr

Strong understanding of government contracting, defense programs, and customer contract execution. * Advancedleadership skills with the ability to influence executive stakeholders and cross ...

... contract. Security Clearance Type: None/Not Required Security Clearance Status: Not Required At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and ...

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Defense Contract information

See Iowa salary details

$14

$34

$51

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Iowa is $34.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.86 and $41.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense contract?

Defense contracts are legally binding agreements between a government, typically the Department of Defense, and private companies or organizations to provide goods, services, or research that support national defense objectives. These contracts can cover a wide range of needs, including weapons systems, military equipment, technology development, construction, and logistical support. Defense contracts are awarded through a competitive bidding process, and they are subject to strict regulations to ensure transparency, accountability, and national security. Companies that secure these contracts must comply with specific requirements and standards set by the government.

What are some common challenges faced when working on defense contracts, and how can professionals prepare for them?

Working on defense contracts often involves navigating complex compliance requirements, strict confidentiality, and tight deadlines. Professionals may face challenges such as adhering to government regulations (like ITAR or DFARS), coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and adapting to changing project scopes. To prepare, it's helpful to gain familiarity with relevant regulations, develop strong project management skills, and build effective communication channels within interdisciplinary teams. Proactively seeking training and staying updated on industry standards can also make the transition smoother.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense contract professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Contract professional, you need a solid understanding of government procurement regulations, contract negotiation, and compliance, often supported by a degree in business, law, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), contract management software, and security clearance requirements is typically necessary. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top candidates apart in this field. These competencies ensure compliance with complex regulations, minimize risk, and facilitate successful contract execution within the defense sector.

What is the difference between Defense Contract vs Defense Analyst?

AspectDefense ContractDefense Analyst
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, contracting certificationsSecurity clearances, analytical and research skills
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, defense contractorsMilitary, government agencies, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageDefense contractors, government procurement officesMilitary organizations, defense analysis firms
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on procurement, contracts, and complianceFocus on strategic analysis, intelligence, and policy

While both roles operate within the defense industry, Defense Contract professionals primarily handle procurement, negotiations, and contract management for defense projects. Defense Analysts focus on evaluating military strategies, intelligence, and policy development. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify roles aligned with their skills and career goals within the defense sector.

How can I work for a defense contract?

To work on a defense contract, you typically need to apply through government or defense contractor job portals, meet security clearance requirements, and possess relevant skills such as engineering, cybersecurity, or logistics. Many positions require U.S. citizenship and background checks, and some roles may require specialized certifications or training.

What does a defense contract do?

A defense contract involves an agreement between a government agency and a company or individual to provide goods or services for national defense, such as military equipment, technology, or support. Defense contractors often work on projects requiring security clearances, technical expertise, and adherence to strict regulations to support military operations and national security objectives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Defense jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Defense Contract jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Defense Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,994 per year, or $34.1 per hour.

Specialist, Government Accounting

Collins Aerospace

Des Moines, IA

$20.75 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-04

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-REMOTE

Position Role Type:

Remote

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

What You Will Do

  • Prepare and support the Forward Pricing Rate Proposal (FPRP) and negotiate selected rates into the Forward Pricing Rate Agreement (FPRA)
  • Maintain complaint cost accounting practices for business units and home office and familiarization with Cost Accounting Standards Board (CASB) Disclosure Statements
  • Maintain government accounting framework, including translating from performance accounting to government cost accounting
  • Develop, analyze and submit actual rates vs. the FPRP / FPRA
  • Prepare, submit and analyze the annual Incurred Cost Submission for the establishment of final billing rate agreement
  • Interface with Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) as required on topics related to forward pricing rates, billing rates, incurred cost and related audits

What You Will Learn

  • Become a subject matter expert and leader in the Collins Government Accounting organization.
  • Contracting with the military comes with its own set of accounting practices, build your knowledge in this specialized field for long term career growth with RTX.  


Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires a University Degree and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience
  • U.S. Citizen - U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract
  • Experience with Microsoft Excel


Qualifications We Prefer

  • Analytical skills with the ability to effectively summarize analyses and communicate at various levels
  • Experience balancing multiple priorities and producing quality work within required timeframes
  • Experience supporting both internal and external audits
  • Experience with Microsoft Access, SAP, Hyperion and/or OneStream
  • Familiarity with relevant Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) and Federal Acquisitions
  • Regulations (FAR) cost principles
  • Prior association / interaction with DCAA and DCMA

What We Offer Benefits

Some of our competitive benefits package includes: 

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Life insurance and disability coverage
  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
  • Adoption Assistance         
  • Autism Benefit
  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
  • And more! 

Please ensure the role type defined below is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role. This position is classified as:

Remote: Employees who are working in Remote roles will work primarily offsite (from home). If you live within a reasonable commute of an RTX site with other colleagues you interact with, your manager will discuss whether there is a degree of onsite presence associated with this role.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 86,800 USD - 165,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018