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Defense Contract Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Contract Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description We are seeking a Contract Analyst to provide acquisition and contract administration support for Department of Defense programs. The successful candidate will assist ...

Contract Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Description We are seeking a Contract Analyst to provide acquisition and contract administration support for Department of Defense programs. The successful candidate will assist government ...

Contract Specialist II

Mclean, VA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Responsibilities will include preparing and administering terms and conditions of Department of Defense Research & Development (FAR Part 35) contracts; Assisting in the negotiation of contracts;

Contract Analyst

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$73K - $89K/yr

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is responsible for the effective execution and operation of the ... Contract writing system PD2 experience preferable, but not required. * Excellent written and oral ...

Contract Analyst

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$73K - $89K/yr

The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is responsible for the effective execution and operation of the ... Contract writing system PD2 experience preferable, but not required. * Excellent written and oral ...

Showing results 21-40

Defense Contract information

See Virginia salary details

$15

$36

$54

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Virginia is $36.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $43.37 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Defense jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Defense Contract jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Defense Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,937 per year, or $36 per hour.

Attorney-Adviser (Contract)

Defense Logistics Agency

Richmond, VA • On-site, Remote

$131K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Defense Logistics Agency rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

277th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary
See below for important information regarding this job.
Incumbents will serve as an Attorney-Adviser (Contract) in the Office of Counsel, Defense Logistics Agency, DLA Weapons Support, a Major Subordinate Command located in Richmond, VA.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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As an Attorney-Adviser (Contract), you will be responsible for the following duties:
  • Serves as a Team lead for contract attorneys under the supervision of the Deputy Chief Counsel as a Senior Contracts Counsel.
  • Senior legal advisor and subject matter expert for a DLA Acquisition Supply Chain Directorate on all acquisition matters for supplies and services (legal issues relating to solicitation, negotiation, award administration and modification, etc).
  • Provides advice and risk assessments on special procurements characterized by extensive discussions with high level officials, negotiation of special terms and provisions, high-level visibility, and/or substantial funds expenditure.
  • Reviews and coordinates decisions by contracting officers concerning contract claims (contractor or Government) and terminations, breach of contract actions, revocation of acceptance of defective material, and re-procurement after default.
  • Provides advice and litigation support for contract challenges, overseeing, handling directly, or supporting the assigned Department of Justice attorney in contract related actions before the Government Accountability Office, Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals, and Federal Courts.
  • Manages the distribution of work among contract team attorneys, assuring work is accomplished accurately, responsively, and timely. Provides guidance and assistance to junior attorneys on complex, unusual, or precedential issues, and assists in their training and development.
  • Reviews and advises on local acquisition policies, procedures, and instructions for legal sufficiency, consistency, and compliance with applicable law, including Federal Acquisition Regulations, Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement, and DLA guidance.
  • Prepares timely responses to Congressional and Executive level inquiries, advises on administrative matters, including Freedom of Information Act, Privacy Act, fiscal law, and contract fraud, and advises, counsels, and represents personnel labor, Equal Employment Opportunity law, ethics, and installation law.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • This is an Excepted Service position.
  • Tour of Duty: Flexible (https://www.dla.mil/Careers/Join-Our-Team/Benefits/#Work)
  • Security Requirements: Non-Critical Sensitive with Secret Access
  • Appointment is subject to the completion of a favorable suitability or fitness determination, where reciprocity cannot be applied; unfavorably adjudicated background checks will be grounds for removal.
  • Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Exempt
  • Selective Service Requirement: Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
  • Recruitment Incentives: May Be Authorized
  • Bargaining Unit Status: No
  • Financial Disclosure Requirement: Required
  • This position and any future selections from this announcement may be used to fill various shifts located within DLA General Counsel, DLA Weapons Support in Richmond, VA.

Qualifications
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
1) The first professional law degree (LLB. or J.D.);
2) Proof that you are licensed and a member in good standing with the bar of the highest court of a State, U.S. commonwealth, U.S. territory, or the District of Columbia. Annual bar certification cards issued from your state of licensure are not considered acceptable. Proof is a "certificate of good standing" issued by your state of licensure dated within 6 months of the closing date of this announcement or a screenshot of your bar status taken from your state of licensure website that is dated within 6 months of the closing date of this announcement or sworn statement to that effect. If there is not a date on the screen shot, you must provide a statement signed by you on the date that the screen shot was created. The successful applicant selected for employment must provide a "certificate of good standing" issued by their respective bar showing they are in good status and in active status prior to appointment.
3) In addition to 1 and 2 (listed above), each grade level has the following qualification requirements:
To Qualify at the GS-14 Level:
You must possess professional legal experience in excess of 3 years commensurate with the duties and responsibilities of the position.
In accordance with DoDI 1442.2 (Personnel Actions Involving Civilian Attorneys), promotion for this position is based on the individual's time, performance, and mastery of skills at the required grade level and only with approval of the designated official (DLA General Counsel) in accordance with the applicable regulation.
The legal experience described in your application package or resume will be evaluated and screened for competencies required to perform the duties of the position as described in the Major Duties section of this announcement. The QUALITY of experience will be evaluated and screened to determine how closely or to what extent your experience, education, and training are relevant to the duties and responsibilities of the announced position. Your application package or resume must demonstrate you have the competencies and quality of experience necessary to successfully perform the work of the position at the appropriate grade level.
PRINCIPAL SELECTION FACTORS:
The following factors will be used to evaluate the suitability of candidates for this position:
  1. Knowledge and experience in Federal acquisition law, preferably with the Department of Defense (DoD).
  2. Analytical/legal ability (including issue identification, legal research, analysis of options, risk analysis, creative problem-solving).
  3. Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  4. Excellent interpersonal skills and client relationships, and the ability to interact well with clients, colleagues and senior officials on routine as well as controversial and sensitive issues.
  5. Excellent legal and business judgement.
  6. Ability to lead team members toward achievement of organizational goals.
  7. Ability to train and assist in the development of junior attorneys.
  8. Ability to work effectively with a breadth of colleagues and geographically dispersed clients.

Security Clearance: This position is designated Non-Critical Sensitive. If selected, you must obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance. If you are unable to obtain this level of security clearance (as a result of undisclosed or disclosed background issues), within a reasonable period of time (as defined by the agency), the employment offer may be withdrawn. In addition, incumbent is subject to periodic re-investigation to maintain security eligibility in accordance with DoD 5200.2-R.
Education
You MUST provide transcripts or other documentation to support your educational claims. Unless otherwise stated: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable at time of application.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university.
Additional information
Excepted Service Position: This job is being filled by an alternative hiring process and is not in the competitive civil service.
Veterans Information: There is no formal rating system for applying veteran's preference to attorney appointments in the excepted service; however, the Department of Defense considers veterans' preference eligibility a positive factor for attorney hiring. Applicants eligible for veterans' preference must include that information in their cover letter or resume and attach supporting documentation (e.g., DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) to their submissions.
Although the point-preference system is not used, applicants eligible to claim a 10-point preference must submit a Standard Form (SF) 15, Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference, and supporting documentation required for the specific type of preference claimed. (SF-15, which lists the types of 10-point preference and the required supporting documents, is available from the Office of Personnel Management Website at www.opm.gov).
As of 23 December 2016, Military retirees seeking to enter federal service in the Department of Defense now require a waiver if they would be appointed within 180 days following their official date of retirement.
Reemployed Annuitants: This position does not meet criteria for appointment of Reemployed Annuitants. The DoD criteria for hiring Reemployed Annuitants can be found at: https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/140025/140025_vol300.PDF
Drug-Free Workplace Policy
The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is committed to maintaining a safe, drug-free workplace. All DLA employees are required to refrain from illegal drug use on and off duty. DLA conducts pre-employment, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, and random drug testing.
Applicants tentatively selected for employment in testing designated positions will undergo a urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Refusal to undergo testing or testing positive for illegal drugs will result in withdrawal of the tentative job offer and a six-month denial of employment with DLA from the date of the drug test. Employees in drug testing designated positions are subject to random drug testing. A negative drug test result must be received by HR within 30 calendar days after the EOD (i.e., start date). The selectee's inability successfully pass; or refusal to conduct the test may result in: 1) the tentative or FJO being withdrawn during the recruitment process; or 2) subsequently being removed from Federal service for failure to meet a condition of employment. You may be required to sign a "Drug Test Statement of Understanding" if you are selected for this position.
The DLA drug testing panel tests for the following substances: marijuana, cocaine, opiates, heroin, phencyclidine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, fentanyl, norfentanyl, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA), and opioids.
ADVISORY: Use of cannabidiol (CBD) products may result in a positive drug test for marijuana. DLA employees are subject to Federal law and under Federal law, Marijuana is illegal.
Additional guidance on writing a federal resume can be found at: USAJOBS Help Center - How do I write a resume for a federal job? The resume builder can help you create a resume using these recommendations and uses the information in your USAJOBS profile to help you get started.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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