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Defense Contract Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Piper Companies

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;

West 4th Strategy

Cybersecurity Analyst

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$100 - $145/hr

Cybersecurity Analyst We need an experienced Cybersecurity Analyst at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA). This role supports the cybersecurity evaluation of drone systems and components ...

West 4th Strategy

Cybersecurity Analyst

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Cybersecurity Analyst ROLE We need an experienced Cybersecurity Analyst at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA). This role supports the cybersecurity evaluation of drone systems and ...

Nwis

Contract Specialist

Sterling, VA · On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability ... Nightwing Contracts is seeking a Contracts Specialist to support the High Consequence Missions (HCM ...

Amyx, Inc.

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 ...

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$15

$36

$54

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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:

Defense Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,937 per year, or $36 per hour.

CONTRACT SPECIALIST

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 539 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

You will serve as a Contract Specialist of NAVSUP FLC NORVA GF.Qualifications:GS-13
In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of Specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-12 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector utilizing contracting methods and contract types to plan and carry out long term pre-award and post-award procurement actions. You have experience demonstrating all of the following: 1) Advising and guiding technical representatives on anticipated procurement requirements and providing technical input into the development of statements of work and specifications; 2) Conducting conferences, soliciting, receiving, and analyzing proposals for responsiveness and acceptability; 3) Analyzing settlement proposals, claims, audit reports, unauthorized commitments, protests, and termination proposals; 4) Preparing and coordinating statistical and other reports on various aspects of the contract and develops long-range or interrelated procurement programs.
GS-12
In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of Specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-11 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector utilizing contracting methods and contract types to plan and carry out long term pre-award and post-award procurement actions. You have experience demonstrating all of the following: 1) Advising and guiding technical representatives on anticipated procurement requirements and assisting in providing technical input into the development of statements of work and specifications; 2) Conducting conferences, soliciting, and receiving proposals for responsiveness and acceptability; 3) Analyzing settlement proposals, claims, unauthorized commitments, protests, and termination proposals; 4) Assisting in preparing statistical and other reports on various aspects of the contract.
Applicant must meet the following Department of Defense qualification requirements for 1102 contracting positions: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/DoD_Qualification_Standard_For_GS-1102.pdf
And the title 10 requirements found here: http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title10-section1724&num=0&edition=prelim
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Applicants must meet the following Basic Education Requirement of the Department of Defense Qualification Standard for Contracting Positions:
A bachelor's degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees.
NOTE: The education requirement listed above applies only to individuals entering DoD GS-1102 positions on or after October 1, 2000. Current civilian personnel in DoD who occupied GS-1102 positions or contracting positions with authority to award or administer contracts above the simplified acquisition threshold in an Executive Department on or before September 30, 2000 are exempt from meeting this requirement. Current military members who occupied a similar occupational specialty to the GS (or equivalent) 1102 or before September 30, 2000 are also exempt from meeting this requirement.
Employment Type: OTHER

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