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Defense Contract Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

MIKEL INC

CORPORATE CONTROLLER

Middletown, RI · On-site

... Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) requirements. The Controller will provide both strategic financial leadership and hands-on execution while managing day-to-day accounting operations. The ...

MIKEL INC

CORPORATE CONTROLLER

Middletown, RI · On-site

... Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) requirements. The Controller will provide both strategic financial leadership and hands-on execution while managing day-to-day accounting operations. The ...

XOtech, LLC

Be Seen First

Material Handler

Newport, RI · On-site

$37K - $45K/yr

Our portal includes a Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA)-approved cost accounting system which allows us to determine and manage all costs that are applicable to our various contracts. XOtech ...

CTS Corporation

Plant Controller, Cranston

Cranston, RI

$104K - $130K/yr

Maintain accurate job costing and program-level financial tracking for defense contracts. * Monitor the implementation of SyQwest's strategic initiatives, supplying the financial analysis to assist ...

CTS Corporation

Plant Controller, Cranston

Cranston, RI · On-site

$104K - $130K/yr

Maintain accurate job costing and program-level financial tracking for defense contracts. * Monitor the implementation of SyQwest's strategic initiatives, supplying the financial analysis to assist ...

MIKEL INC

FINANCIAL ANALYST

Middletown, RI · On-site

... Defense since the company's inception in 1999. Be a part of our dynamic team whose solutions and ... Provide contract and program level financial and administrative tracking and analysis, including ...

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All JobsDefense Contract JobsDefense Contract Jobs in Rhode Island

Defense Contract information

See Rhode Island salary details

$15

$35

$53

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Rhode Island is $35.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.91 and $42.84 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 Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Defense jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Defense Contract jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Defense Contract job openings:

Defense Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,021 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Manager - Defense Contracts & Technical Engineering

Guill Tool & Engineering

West Warwick, RI

$85K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Defense Contracts & Technical Engineering Manager
Position Type: Full-time.
Job Description:
We are seeking a dynamic, results-driven individual to lead a multifunctional team responsible for interpreting, executing, and managing government and commercial defense contracts from initial quote through final delivery. This high-impact role requires knowledge of both FAR, DFARS, and NAVSEA procurement standards in addition to a strong background in manufacturing processes. This position entails direct involvement in contract quoting, proposal development, and customer relationship management, as well as overseeing the deployment of robust process documentation to support lean, efficient production processes in a high-mix, low-volume machining environment.
The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in both government contracting and technical manufacturing, combined with solid business acumen, exceptional process management skills, and a customer-oriented mindset. This role will be instrumental in driving operational excellence while contributing to revenue generation and contract growth.
Key Responsibilities:
Sales & Contract Management:
  • Contract Award Support: Serve as a key participant in contract negotiations and award discussions with customers, ensuring accurate representation of capabilities and requirements.
  • Quoting & Proposal Development: Lead or support the preparation of technical and cost proposals, including manufacturing process estimates, labor routing, and pricing strategies. Identify contractual risks early in the bidding process to ensure all quality, safety, and special material (e.g., Level I/SUBSAFE) requirements are integrated into the project plan.
  • Customer Relationship Management: Act as a primary point of contact (POC) for customers regarding contract requirements, clarifications, and performance updates.
  • Revenue Forecasting: Collaborate with sales and finance to provide accurate forecasts and track contract pipeline, awards, and execution status.

Manufacturing Process Compliance & Documentation:
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all documentation and processes comply with relevant government regulations (FAR/ DFARS/ ITAR/NAVSEA), contractual requirements, and AS9100 quality standards.
  • Contract Modifications: Manage and implement changes resulting from contract modifications, ensuring timely updates to documentation and internal systems/processes.
  • Process Standardization: Develop, implement, and maintain departmental standard operating procedures (SOPs) that ensure consistent review and execution of defense contracts. Support procurement and process engineering activities by interpreting contractual requirements and accurately and efficiently communicating this information to all respective process groups.

Leadership and Operational Oversight:
  • Cross-Functional Leadership: Foster Guill Tool's company values: technical rigor, exceptional product quality, and continuous improvement- by facilitating collaboration between multiple process groups, including production.
  • Workflow Optimization: Support cost reduction initiatives and identify opportunities to improve throughput, efficiency, and product quality without jeopardizing the integrity of contractual deliverables and internal process compliance.
  • Quality Support : Maintain accurate documentation and records, and support internal, 3rd party/ regulatory audits, and AS9100 quality assurance initiatives.

Qualifications:
Education:
  • A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Business Operations, or a related field. An MBA or advanced business training is a plus.

Experience:
  • Minimum 5-7 years in a manufacturing and government contracting environment.
  • At least 2 years in a leadership role managing technical and/or sales functions.
  • Proven experience in quoting, proposal preparation, and contract lifecycle management

Desired Skills:
  • Strong understanding of technical drawings, tight-tolerance machining (±.0001), and manufacturing process routing.
  • In-depth knowledge of government contract regulations (FAR/DFARS/ITAR/ NAVSEA) and the federal acquisition process
  • Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (Epicor experience a plus), quoting software, CRM platforms, and navigating customer & government agency portals.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and time and project management abilities.

ITAR Security Requirement:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and capable of obtaining a Secret Security Clearance.

About Guill Tool & Engineering:
Established in 1962, we are a Level I/SUBSAFE defense contractor committed to providing precision machined components and assemblies at an economical cost to support the U.S. Navy Submarine Industrial Base and related defense industries We are ITAR registered, AS9100 certified, and NIST SP800-171 compliant.
Guill Tool & Engineering is also recognized as a technology leader in the design and manufacture of plastic extrusion tooling worldwide. We offer custom-designed extrusion heads in addition to replacement tip & die tooling for numerous applications, including medical, wire and cable, and industrial.
We maintain a technically capable workforce committed to the continued success of our customers by providing high-quality extrusion tooling and defense components.

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