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Defense Contract Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Security Cooperation Advisor

Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$105K - $153K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... DoD contracts. This position is onsite in Aiea, Hawaii. Essential Duties & Responsibilities * Develop, manage, and execute interoperability and modernization plans with allied defense partners.

Software Engineer I (Onsite)

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contract. Security Clearance Type: None/Not Required Security Clearance Status: Not Required Are you ready to explore the world of aerospace and defense? Do you want to learn from and collaborate ...

Lead Systems Engineer - (Onsite)

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$108 - $205/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We support multiple contracts and are seeking to fill roles across several open contracts - our ... US Government Department of Defense (DoD) Secret Security Clearance Day 1. Onsite: This is an ...

New

Program Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... contract execution, and customer relationship management. * Familiarity with rugged computing systems, embedded hardware, and/or industrial/defense-grade electronics * Ownership mindset with a high ...

Program Manager

Hiawatha, IA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

... contract execution, and customer relationship management. * Familiarity with rugged computing systems, embedded hardware, and/or industrial/defense-grade electronics * Ownership mindset with a high ...

Quality Manager

Janesville, IA ยท On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... defense primes, and key commercial customers * Oversee document control, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), nonconformance management, and continuous improvement activities * Support contract ...

Quality Manager

Janesville, IA ยท On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... defense primes, and key commercial customers * Oversee document control, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), nonconformance management, and continuous improvement activities * Support contract ...

Warehouse/Logistics Operator - 3rd Shift (Onsite)

Coralville, IA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Warehouse/Logistics Operator - 2nd shift (Onsite)

Coralville, IA ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Security Cooperation Advisor

SMX Corporation

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$105K - $153K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

SMX is seeking a Security Cooperation Advisor to contribute to defense modernization and allied interoperability efforts across INDOPACOM. This position supports the development and implementation of strategies that strengthen international partnerships and enhance network-enabled warfighting capabilities. The advisor will apply expertise in command, control, communications, and computer systems (C4) to develop and execute roadmaps that improve interoperability with partner and allied militaries. The role involves close coordination across multinational staffs, Joint and Combatant Commands, and Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition organizations to ensure communications and information systems are operationally ready whenever and wherever required. This position requires a strategic thinker who can build lasting professional relationships, manage complex projects, and align modernization efforts to meet mission objectives.

This position requires a current DoD Top Secret/SCI clearance which requires US citizenship for work on DoD contracts.

This position is onsite in Aiea, Hawaii.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Develop, manage, and execute interoperability and modernization plans with allied defense partners.

  • Serve as liaison across U.S. and partner nation staffs to ensure alignment with DoD strategic objectives.

  • Coordinate with acquisition and program offices to enable secure, interoperable C4 capabilities.

  • Analyze systems and architectures to identify opportunities for enhanced connectivity and mission effectiveness.

  • Represent the organization at multinational forums, working groups, and planning events.

Required Skills & Experience

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in U.S. military C4 or network-enabled warfighting operations.

  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in security cooperation or foreign military engagement.

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience on a Joint, Combatant Command, or Component Command staff.

  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders, technical experts, and international stakeholders.

  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 25%.

  • Active TS clearance w/SCI eligibility

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree.

  • Active passport with at least 6 months validity for visa and travel purposes.

Desired Skills & Experience

  • Experience with Program Executive Offices or the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).

  • Familiarity with Command and Control (C2) structures and European theater operations.

  • Understanding of Combined and Joint All-Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) concepts.

  • Ability to interpret or design network architectures.

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

  • Masterโ€™s degree preferred.

  • Project Management Professional (PMP), or Agile certification.

#CJPOST

The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.

The proposed salary for this position is:

$105,000โ€”$153,000 USD

At SMXยฎ, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.

We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of whatโ€™s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.

SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.

Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.

SMX does not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization or immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1 and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).