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Defense Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Contract Leader - Defense Systems Division

Irvine, CA · On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

Position Summary The Defense Systems Division is part of the Parker Aerospace Group, located in ... Ensures that contracts with customers are satisfactorily fulfilled and that favorable relationships ...

Contract Administrator

Irvine, CA · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 · 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 ...

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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 Jul 13, 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.

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 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 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 $78,855 per year, or $37.9 per hour.
Contract Leader - Defense Systems Division

Contract Leader - Defense Systems Division

Parker

Irvine, CA • On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Parker Hannifin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 351 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 527 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Summary

The Defense Systems Division is part of the Parker Aerospace Group, located in Irvine, California.  Our products are used across military and commercial platforms globally. We specialize in cutting edge thermal management systems and components including fans, pumps and compressors, ammunition handling systems, weapon scoring systems, dynamic pressure sensors, piezoelectric accelerometers, towed targets, reeling machines, and associated telemetry.

For over fifty years, we have been a leader in defense products, contributing to the operational success of some of the most advanced military platforms worldwide.

As a member of our team, you are instrumental in fulfilling our mission: 'Enabling Engineering Breakthroughs that Lead to a Better Tomorrow.' Pursuing a career at Parker presents unlimited opportunities for both professional and personal development. Working with some of the most brilliant minds in the industry, your contributions will be pivotal in developing innovative technologies and products, significantly contributing to Parker's goal of addressing the world's most pressing engineering challenges. At Parker, our team members belong, matter and make a difference.
 

Represents the company in the procurement, negotiation, and administration of contracts for goods or services. Ensures that contracts with customers are satisfactorily fulfilled and that favorable relationships with customers are maintained. Typical duties include providing interpretation of contract provisions, screening and processing customer inquiries to ensure proactive monitoring of work performed under the contract, preparing periodic reports, estimates of completion dates, and prompt handling of customer problems.  Responsible for the preparation and staffing of proposals, negotiation of new contracts, renegotiation of existing contracts, and for providing support to the Business Development/Marketing organization.  A security clearance may be required.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensures proper compliance with all contract terms and conditions; works with MDSI customers to ensure that contract terms are balanced, fair, and do not place undo business risk upon the company.
  • Monitors status and delivery performance of all active contracts.
  • Reviews RFP terms, conditions and SOW requirements and outgoing proposals and quotations; conducts contract negotiations.
  • Serves as the principal point of contact for active assigned customer accounts, and secondary point of contact on all others.
  • Maintains accurate, complete and well-documented contract files; serves as a key source for advice, counsel and guidance on all contractual matters such as contract law, government procurement policies and regulations.
  • Disseminates information, facilitates communication and coordinates the activities of other functional departments in meeting contract requirements; resolves conflicting schedule and / or competing resource requirements.  
  • Enters contracts and P.O.'s into the Deltek/Costpoint order entry system.
  • Assists in the preparation of teaming agreements, Proprietary Data Exchange Agreements, etc.
  • Identifies mandatory flow-down Terms and Conditions and provides this information to Purchasing.
  • Develops / implements new contract management policies or procedures when such are required to ensure contract compliance and / or effective, efficient management of the company's business.
  • Ensures proper and timely close-out of completed contracts.
  • Ensures proper processing of all required import/export license applications and administers all issued licenses.
  • Assists the department in developing systems and procedures for the management and administration of contracts.
  • Participates in and coordinates resolution of inter-departmental problems and, when required, suggests new methods, procedures or tools for improved management of company business.
     

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S.) from four-year college or university or equivalent, and a minimum of 5+ years related experience.
  • Experience must include managing DoD contracts and major prime contracts and operating as a lead negotiator.  
  • Requires experience in Military/Aerospace Industry and with FAR regulations. 
     

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Proposal preparation experience is desired.  
  • Professional certification a plus.
  • Experience preparing price proposals desired, as well as project management and export administration experience.
     

Conditions of Employment

This position is subject to meeting U.S. export compliance and/or U.S. Government contracting citizenship eligibility requirements.

Pay, Benefits, Work Schedule

Competitive Compensation

  • Pay Range:  102305 to 170240 annually
  • Participation in Annual Incentive Program

Benefit & Retirement Plans 

Parker offers competitive benefit programs, including:

  • Comprehensive coverage for medical, prescription drugs, dental, vision, voluntary optional life, accident insurance, hospital indemnity insurance and critical illness insurance with competitive premium cost. 
  • 401(k) Plan with company matching contributions at 100% of the first 5% of pay.
  • Company provided defined-contribution retirement plan with annual contribution equal to 3% of pay.
  • Career development and tuition reimbursement.
  • Other benefits including paid parental leave, short and long-term disability programs, adoption assistance, a Care.com membership and financial planning assistance are provided at no cost to you.
  • Supplemental benefit programs including identity protection, legal protection, and pet wellness are available at competitive rates.
  • Paid Time Off and Company-Paid Holidays.
     

Equal Employment Opportunity

Parker is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Parker is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job related reasons regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law.  This position is subject to meeting export compliance eligibility requirements. 
("Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran / VEVRAA Federal Contractor") 
If you would like more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please go to Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov) and Genetic Information Discrimination

Drug Tests

Drug-Free Workplace
In accordance with Parker's policies and applicable state laws, Parker provides for a drug-free workplace. Therefore, all applicants seeking employment with Parker will be subject to drug testing as a condition of employment.

Employment Type: Regular

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