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Defense Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Corporate Controller - 21289

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$200K - $235K/yr

Controller-level experience in a government defense contract environment * 10+ years of progressive accounting experience * Costpoint government software experience and strong Microsoft Office Suite ...

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Insurance Defense / Civil Litigation Attorney - All Experience Levels Welcome About Us We are a ... Fullโ€time employee or flexible independent contract Benefits: 401(k), flexible schedule, health ...

Insurance Defense / Civil Litigation Attorney - All Experience Levels Welcome About Us We are a ... Fullโ€time employee or flexible independent contract Benefits: 401(k), flexible schedule, health ...

Contracts Manager

City Of Industry, CA ยท On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Company Description PDS Defense offers talent acquisition and SOW/Engineering solutions in the ... Our flexible business model allows us to provide not only solutions for contract and direct ...

Contract Administrator

Irvine, CA ยท Hybrid

$129K - $160K/yr

About DZYNE DZYNE Technologies is leading the future of autonomous defense. Based in Irvine ... Contract Administrator Location: Irvine, CA Work Arrangement: On-Site w/ Hybrid available Position ...

Contract Administrator

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$129K - $160K/yr

About DZYNE DZYNE Technologies is leading the future of autonomous defense. Based in Irvine ... Contract Administrator Location: Irvine, CA Work Arrangement: On-Site w/ Hybrid available Position ...

Background in aerospace, defense, or government contracting environment. * Working knowledge of ... contract-specific flow-downs, etc.) * Understanding of export control regulations, such as Export ...

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA

$95K - $127K/yr

... defense and commercial missions. We are a unique, fast growing, and trusted team dedicated to ... Experienced with all contract types (i.e., Cost Reimbursement, Fixed Price, FPIF, IDIQ, Time and ...

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

... defense and commercial missions. We are a unique, fast growing, and trusted team dedicated to ... Experienced with all contract types (i.e., Cost Reimbursement, Fixed Price, FPIF, IDIQ, Time and ...

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

Areas of responsibility include proposal review, full life-cycle contract management, negotiation ... Thorough understanding of the US Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition policy, government ...

Sr. Contract Specialist

Redlands, CA ยท On-site

$99K/yr

Experience working with federal agencies and federal regulations including FAR/DFAR, SBA, EAR, ITAR, and Defense Security Service * Understanding of professional services contract terms, cloud ...

PI Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$170 - $250/hr

... contracts, etc. * Managing and overseeing paralegals and legal assistants. * Preparing for and conducting depositions. * Demonstrating superior customer service skills to clients, opposing counsel ...

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Defense Contract information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$37

$57

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Riverside, CA is $37.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.60 and $45.62 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.

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Defense jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Defense jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Defense Contract jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Defense Contract job openings:
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,855 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Principal, Government Compliance

L3Harris Technologies

Yorba Linda, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Principal, Govt Compliance

Job Code: 40843

Job Location: Amityville, NY, Ashburn, VA, Melbourne, FL, Mason, OH, Yorba Linda, CA

Job Schedule: 9/80

Job Description:

Are you ready to ensure our compliance and operational excellence with U.S. government standards? We are seeking a dedicated individual to join our Government Compliance team as a Principal, Government Compliance.

In this role, you will develop programs and conduct financial, business systems, and operational audits in areas like internal controls, procedures, time and labor charging, pricing, estimating, unallowable cost accounting, property, and Mandatory Disclosure in relation to Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulations (DFAR), and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS). You will review, research, analyze, and resolve issues raised by government auditors, prepare reports summarizing audit findings, review findings with management, make recommendations, and prepare cost impacts and/or technical position responses as necessary. You will also interface with government and customer auditors as required.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact within our organization. If you are passionate about compliance and operational excellence, we encourage you to apply for the Lead, Government Compliance position. Join us in maintaining high standards and flawless processes!

Essential Functions:

  • Lead and/or support all stages for the Incurred Cost Proposal in accordance with FAR 52.216-7Allowable Cost and Payment clause. Includes the development and preparation of Incurred Cost Claim across multiple segments/divisions, ensuring their timely submission in compliance with relevant regulations. Additionally, provides audit support and guidance to resolve discrepancies or disputes, ensuring favorable outcomes and regulatory adherence.
  • Perform and coordinate audit fieldwork supporting business systems compliance across the Enterprise. Support Government Compliance personnel and process owners in evaluating internal controls, audit planning, and risk assessment for the operational effectiveness of government business systems.
    • Work with process owners to document process workflows and audit walkthroughs.
    • Conduct audit fieldwork in accordance with test plans.
    • Use different analysis techniques and tools to improve audit risk assessment procedures.
    • Administer database of audit controls, test plans, fieldwork, assignments, data requests and results.
    • Assimilate audit testing data to effectively summarize and communicate findings to management.
  • Assist in the performance of regulatory reviews and assessments to CAS standards and FAR cost principles. 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 Agency (DCMA). Utilizes fundamental knowledge of accounting, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), to review financial records.
  • Provides financial analysis support to the Government Compliance organization for decision making; including accounting reconciliations, data mining, reporting, and audit of indirect cost accounts and unallowable accounts for indirect cost claims. This task will also learn to assess records and provide support to address allowability in accordance with the FAR.
  • Coordinate with multiple departments in order to meet audit deliverables to Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) during business system audits.Involved in tracking and monitoring requests from and responses to audit agencies in a timely manner to ensure compliance with requests for information.
  • Participates in the development and modification of policies, procedures, internal controls and practices to ensure that changes are successfully implemented and meet overall business objectives and required regulatory standards. Support training efforts within the scope of the Regulatory Compliance Program.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 12 years of prior government compliance experience or Graduate Degree and a minimum of 10 years of prior government compliance experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior government compliance experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Subject matter expert with comprehensive knowledge of job area and in-depth knowledge of project management.
  • Ability to manage large, complex project initiatives of substantial importance to the organization with minimal oversight or direction.
  • Communicates within and outside of the organization to explain and influence changes to practices, processes and approaches.
  • Makes significant improvements in processes, systems, or products.
  • Provides input into new products/processes and implements operational plans that have measurable impact on business or functional results.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of DFAR Business Systems, Incurred Cost Proposal, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), FAR Supplements Cost Accounting Standards and in-depth knowledge of project management.
  • Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) standards, General Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS), and Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) standards, including internal control systems, cost accounting, and general ledger
  • Internal / External Financial or Compliance Audit experience preferred but not required.
  • Government Contractor experience preferred but not required.
  • Understanding of automated accounting systems and computer applications

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, NYC areas, and Virginia (Greater D.C. area) is $120,500 - $223,500. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-SS3

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time