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Defense Contract Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Contract Specialist

Vienna, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Responsible for contract compliance and reporting, including Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Agency-level supplemental acquisition regulations, Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation ...

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Contracts Manager

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$121K - $140K/yr

Experience with support and compliance during Defense Contract Auditing Agency (DCAA) and Defense Contract Management (DCMA) audits, fact-finding, and prime contract negotiation * Experience with ...

Contracts Manager

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$121K - $140K/yr

Experience with support and compliance during Defense Contract Auditing Agency (DCAA) and Defense Contract Management (DCMA) audits, fact-finding, and prime contract negotiation * Experience with ...

Identify, target, and secure defense contracts with the US DoD (US Navy, SOCOM, ATFP, CBP, Coast Guard etc) and allied international organizations. * Serve as the primary point of contact for defense ...

Contracts Manager

Arlington, VA

$102K - $136K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. Additionally, may lead audits both internal and external to the company. * Oversee maintenance of accurate files for ...

Contracts Manager

Arlington, VA

$102K - $136K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. Additionally, may lead audits both internal and external to the company. * Oversee maintenance of accurate files for ...

Contracts Manager

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$102K - $136K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. May serve as the primary point of contact for all internal and external audits. * Oversee maintenance of accurate ...

Coordinates with Finance, Accounting, HR, Procurement, Legal and Contracts departments in order to meet audit deliverables to Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and Defense Contract Management ...

Identify, target, and secure defense contracts with the US DoD (US Navy, SOCOM, ATFP, CBP, Coast Guard etc) and allied international organizations. * Serve as the primary point of contact for defense ...

Be Seen First

Department of Defense, federal agencies, and the defense industrial base. Reporting to the Chief ... Contract Management & Capture * Lead the pursuit of federal contracts from opportunity ...

Be Seen First

Department of Defense, federal agencies, and the defense industrial base. Reporting to the Chief ... Contract Management & Capture * Lead the pursuit of federal contracts from opportunity ...

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Showing results 1-20

Defense Contract information

See Reston, VA salary details

$16

$37

$57

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Reston, VA is $37.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.55 and $45.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are defense contracts?

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 most commonly searched types of Defense jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Defense jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Defense Contract jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Defense Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,635 per year, or $37.8 per hour.
Contracts Specialist with Security Clearance

Contracts Specialist with Security Clearance

Zachary Piper Solutions, LLC

Arlington, VA • On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

*An Active Secret Clearance is required for consideration to this position* Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Contracts Specialist to support DARPA'S Contracts Management Office (CMO). The Contracts Specialist will work in a hybrid setting based out of Arlington, VA in support of DARPA's research and development mission to make pivotal investments in breakthrough technologies for National Security. Responsibilities of the Contracts Specialist include: * 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 * Preparing contract modifications; Analyzing procurement policies and procedures * Analyzing proposed costs and prices * Preparing required contract file documentation per the FAR, DFARS, and other relevant policies/regulations. Qualifications of the Contracts Specialist include: * 5+ years of experience with government contracts * Experience using Procurement Desktop-Defense technologies, PD2 * Bachelor's degree * Active DoD Secret clearance Compensation includes: * Salary Range: $110,000 - 170,000 **depending on experience and LCAT placement** * Full Benefits: Cigna Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, Paid Holidays This job posting opens on 7/10/26 and will stay open for at least 30 days from the date of posting #LI-CB1 #LI-HYBRID Keywords: Contracts Specialist, Contracts Administrator, Contracts Manager, contracts officer, FAR, DFAR, Department of Defense, DoD, DARPA, Defense, ARMY, NAVY, Marine, Marines, PD2, cost analysis, price analysis, cradle to grave, Government contracts, procurement, defense contracts, FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation), compliance, negotiations, subcontracting, RFP (Request for Proposal), contract administration, DCAA (Defense Contract Audit Agency), cost analysis, secret clearance, department of defense, DoD