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Defense Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Esri

Sr. Contract Specialist

Redlands, CA · On-site

$75K - $118K/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 ...

Parker

Buyer I - Defense Systems Division

Irvine, CA · On-site

Purchasing Exempt Defense Systems Division The Defense Systems Division is part of the Parker ... Notify the appropriate MDSI Contract Administrator/Program Manager and Purchasing Supervisor of any ...

Canopy Aerospace & Defense

ERP Data Analyst

Ontario, CA · On-site

Canopy Aerospace & Defense is a premier contract manufacturer specializing in high-precision solutions for the Aerospace, Defense, and Space sectors. The ERP Data Analyst supports and optimizes the ...

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PART-TIME or CONTRACT - WORKERS COMPENSATION ATTORNEY

Menifee, CA · Remote

$50 - $100/hr

Menifee workers compensation defense solo attorney is overloaded with files. Need is for a part-time or contract or retired attorney. Remote. Must have CA workers compensation attorney experience.

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All JobsDefense Contract JobsDefense Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA

Defense Contract information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$37

$57

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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:
Defense Contract jobs near you
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.
Sr. Contract Specialist

Sr. Contract Specialist

Esri

Redlands, CA • On-site

$75K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Esri rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 209 rated software companies

Job description

Overview
Are you an experienced contracts professional looking to take the next step in your career? Join Esri's Professional Services division as a Sr. Contract Specialist and play a key role in shaping agreements that support our mission to deliver transformative geospatial solutions. In this role, you'll manage a variety of complex contracts, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and provide guidance on contract structuring and compliance.
You will be joining a team of experienced professionals who enjoy working together to support Esri's large customer base and internal customer requests. We love what we do, and we love Esri's philosophy. You will have a management team and colleagues who are here to support you. Technology is always changing, and our customers are finding new ways to utilize geospatial software to improve the world, so your assignments are varied, challenging and fascinating.
Esri has a Relocation Assistance Program and can provide support with relocating to the Redlands, CA area for this position.
Responsibilities
  • Manage the full lifecycle of services contracts, including RFP analysis, proposal development, negotiation, execution, and closeout
  • Provide guidance to internal stakeholders on contract terms, risk mitigation, and compliance with applicable regulations and policies
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with legal, finance, and project teams to resolve contractual issues and support program success
  • Support a variety of contract types, including commercial, public sector, international, and federal agreements
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of contract management practices and tools
  • Apply knowledge of FAR/DFAR and federal procurement processes where applicable; federal experience is highly valued but not required

Requirements
  • 5+ years of experience in contract administration, with increasing responsibility
  • Demonstrated success in negotiating and managing a variety of contract types and structures
  • Solid understanding of contract law, risk management, and procurement best practices
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across teams
  • Bachelor's degree in business administration, legal studies, political science, or a related field
  • Must be authorized to work in the US; visa sponsorship is not available for this position

Recommended Qualifications
  • Master's degree in business administration, legal studies, political science, or a related field
  • Familiarity with federal contracting and large systems integrator terms and conditions
  • 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 computing terms, software licensing, intellectual property, and subcontracting

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Total Rewards
Esri's competitive total rewards strategy includes industry-leading health and welfare benefits: medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance for employees (and their families), 401(k) and profit-sharing programs, minimum accrual of 80 hours of vacation leave, twelve paid holidays throughout the calendar year, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Base salary is one component of our total rewards strategy. Compensation decisions and the base range for this role take into account many factors including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs.
A reasonable estimate of the base salary range is
$75,920-$118,560 USD
The Company
At Esri, diversity is more than just a word on a map. When employees of different experiences, perspectives, backgrounds, and cultures come together, we are more innovative and ultimately a better place to work. We believe in having a diverse workforce that is unified under our mission of creating positive global change. We understand that diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a destination but an ongoing process. We are committed to the continuation of learning, growing, and changing our workplace so every employee can contribute to their life's best work. Our commitment to these principles extends to the global communities we serve by creating positive change with GIS technology. For more information on Esri's Racial Equity and Social Justice initiatives, please visit our website here.
If you don't meet all of the preferred qualifications for this position, we encourage you to still apply!
Esri is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email askcareers@esri.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Esri Privacy Esri takes our responsibility to protect your privacy seriously. We are committed to respecting your privacy by providing transparency in how we acquire and use your information, giving you control of your information and preferences, and holding ourselves to the highest national and international standards, including CCPA and GDPR compliance.

What Esri employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About ESRI

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our passion for improving quality of life through geography is at the heart of everything we do. Esri's geographic information system (GIS) technology inspires and enables governments, universities, and businesses worldwide to save money, lives, and our environment through a deeper understanding of the changing world around them.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Redlands, CA, US

Year founded

1969

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