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Defense Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Strategic Employment

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA

$95K - $127K/yr

Oversee the lifecycle of contractual technical data and documentation deliverables, primarily in defense or engineering contracting. Manage the identification, tracking, delivery, and quality ...

Strategic Employment

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

Oversee the lifecycle of contractual technical data and documentation deliverables, primarily in defense or engineering contracting. Manage the identification, tracking, delivery, and quality ...

The Structures Company

Avionics Test Engineer

Tustin, CA · On-site

$75/hr

Contract (3 - 6 months with potential for extension) * Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna) * Perks: Bonus potential + Priority access via Tier 1 ...

The Structures Company

Lead CNC Machinist

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$60/hr

Contract (Long Term) * Clearance: Ability to obtain a Security Clearance. * Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna) * Perks: Bonus potential ...

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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 Aug 8, 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:
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 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.

Director, Microelectronics

Design West Technologies, Inc.

Tustin, CA • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

For more than a decade, Design West Technologies Inc. has served as a trusted partner to the Department of Defense (DoD), delivering mission-critical design engineering and rugged manufacturing solutions that protect our nation's warfighters. As we enter our next chapter, we are blending our deep-rooted defense heritage with a start-up culture designed to take advantage of the current DoD landscape. Operating out of our advanced facilities in Tustin, CA, we are seeking an ambitious, forward-thinking Director of Microelectronics to champion this cultural evolution and lead the aggressive scaling of our high-reliability Circuit Card Assembly (CCA) production. The successful candidate will spearhead our transition toward insourcing comprehensive bare board fabrication and drive increased throughput and production capacity.While this position demands the speed, adaptability, and entrepreneurship of a tech start-up, it requires uncompromising adherence to rigorous military standards and traditional defense contracting compliance. The Director will ensure all microelectronics operations strictly conform to AS9100, ISO 9001, ITAR regulations, and NIST protocols, maintaining the secure supply chain environments and cleanroom certifications essential for defense-grade hardware. Candidates must possess a proven track record of leadership, ability to inspire, problem-solve and have an inherent desire to build.Key ResponsibilitiesSecure Operations Management: Oversee all SMT and through-hole production while strictly enforcing ITAR controls and data security policies on the manufacturing floor.High-Reliability Leadership: Build and direct highly vetted team of engineers and technicians, ensuring 100% adherence to IPC-A-610 Class 3 (Aerospace and Military) standards.Budget & P&L Ownership: Manage capital expenditure and operational budgets, optimizing yield rates for complex, low-volume, high-mix defense contracts.AS9100 Compliance: Serve as the executive authority for AS9100 aerospace quality management systems, leading regulatory audits and ensuring complete component traceability.Defense Client Relations: Be the face of microelectronics and partner with program management, defense agencies and contractors while executing facility walk-throughs, technical reviews, production and product qualification phases.Risk & Counterfeit Mitigation: Implement rigorous inspection processes to prevent the introduction of counterfeit components into the defense supply chain.QualificationsU.S. Security Clearance: Must possess U.S. Security Clearance or be capable of obtaining and maintaining a U.S. Department of Defense Security Clearance.Education: Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Master's degree or MBA preferred.Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of manufacturing leadership experience specifically within a defense contractor or aerospace electronics environment.Regulatory Expertise: Deep, verifiable experience managing operations under ITAR regulations and AS9100 quality systems.Technical Standards: Mastery of IPC-A-610 Class 3, J-STD-001 Space Addendum, and automated testing protocols (e.g., X-ray, flying probe, functional testing).Why Join Us?You'll have the opportunity to make a direct impact by protecting the infrastructure that supports mission-critical defense programs. Working alongside talented engineers and technology professionals, you'll help strengthen our cybersecurity posture, support regulatory compliance, and contribute to innovative solutions that protect those who protect us. EEO employer including veterans & individuals with disabilities.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro