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Defense Contract Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Employment Law- Partner

Anaheim, CA

$111K - $150K/yr

School district defense experience required * Trial experience preferred, but not required ... Advise on drafting teacher and staff contracts, ensuring compliance with public education laws ...

QC Inspector - Hubble

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$45/hr

Contract (4 months with potential for extension) * Shifts: Must be open to various shifts * Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna) * Perks: Bonus ...

New

Associate Attorney

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$140K - $190K/yr

Insurance Defense Litigation Attorney - Clinton & Clinton - Long Beach, CA - HYBRID Clinton ... contract claims, trucking accidents, and workers' compensation cases. Clinton & Clinton is ...

CMM Programmer

Tustin, CA ยท On-site

$50 - $55/hr

... required for defense applications. You will be responsible for conducting inspections, and evaluations of materials, components, and finished products to verify compliance with contract ...

CMM Programmer

Tustin, CA ยท On-site

$50 - $55/hr

... required for defense applications. You will be responsible for conducting inspections, and evaluations of materials, components, and finished products to verify compliance with contract ...

Contract Visa: US Citizen Mandatory: Experience in defence or Aerospace electronics; Must have ... The ideal candidate will have strong experience in multi-layer PCB design for defense electronics ...

About CIRCOR Aerospace & Defense CIRCOR Aerospace & Defense is focused on the design, development ... Select and contract specialists on larger maintenance related projects * Advise purchasing manager ...

... Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplements (DFARs), Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). * Serve as the point-of-contact for contract ...

Senior Program Manager

Santa Ana, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Coordinate the timely delivery of hardware/software and contract data requirements. * Provide ... S. Department of Defense. * Strong technical understanding of aerospace product development ...

Senior Claims Specialist

Orange, CA ยท On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Contract / Contract-to-Hire (Based on Performance) Schedule: Full-Time Position Overview We are ... Assign, direct, and coordinate with defense counsel in compliance with internal claims guidelines

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Showing results 1-20

Defense Contract information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$37

$57

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 51% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 46% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,855 per year, or $37.9 per hour.
Program Manager - Santa Ana

Program Manager - Santa Ana

PCX Aerosystems

Santa Ana, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

About the Organization
Applied Aerospace & Defense (Applied) is a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and vertically integrated manufacturing solutions for leading and next-generation space and defense technology companies. Applied builds complex hardware for extreme operating environments and is focused on three core markets: Space and Launch Systems, Defense Aviation and Airborne Systems, and C5ISR and Precision Strike Systems. With decades of space and defense manufacturing heritage, Applied combines deep material science and IP-enabled process expertise with the ability to enable rapid prototyping, enhance new product development, and responsively scale production. Across its nationwide infrastructure of advanced manufacturing facilities, Applied continuously supports a balanced mix of next-generation technology and platform development, large scale production programs, and aftermarket sustainment for enduring platforms.
EOE Statement
Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer.
Description
Position Summary
The program manager is responsible for the execution of one or more simultaneous products according to their Product Life Cycle. Responsible for the cost, schedule and technical performance of company programs or subsystems of major programs. Participates in the negotiation of contract and contract changes. Coordinates the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, budgets and financial terms/conditions of contract. Acts as primary customer contact for program activities, leading program review sessions with customer to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance. Expands the product line with the customer. Establishes milestones and monitors adherence to master plans and schedules, identifies program problems and obtains solutions, such as allocation of resources or changing contractual specifications. Directs the work of employees assigned to the program from technical, manufacturing and administrative areas. Responsible for the daily execution of projects in accordance with contract requirements and company policies, procedures and guidelines. Works closely with the business development team to enhance the business portfolio of the organization. Leads monthly program reviews
Additional Duties and Responsibilities
  • Support and communicate the mission, values and culture of the Company.
  • Travels to customers and potential customers' facilities providing them with information and support as required to secure business
  • Ensure that the right product is developed to meet or exceed company's quality standard and is delivered at the right time.
  • Lead program teams and facilitate the communication and interaction among the functional representatives.
  • Develop and implement recovery plans for off-schedule and unanticipated eventualities.
  • Coordinate with customers, through marketing and sales, to provide necessary program status and obtain customer feedback.
  • Assist in the preparation of written quotes, RFP's, RFI's and RFQ responses and sales proposals & negotiations
  • Handle all customer calls on timely basis
  • Ensure new product information is communicated to appropriate personnel as required

Minimum Requirements and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in a technical, business or financial discipline.
  • Five + years program management experience.
  • Travel is primarily locally during the business day, although some out of the area travel and overnight may be expected.

Additional Desirable Qualifications Skills and Knowledge
  • Aerospace Industry experience is a must
  • Defense/military industry experience
  • Highest degree of integrity and compliance in all activities
  • Excellent verbal and writing skills and ability to present sales proposals in person, via phone, via the web to all levels of customers/prospects
  • Proven success in prospecting, hunting and farming new customers
  • Demonstrated use of fair negotiating tactics & methods to build long term customer partnership
  • General knowledge of accounting, manufacturing procedures, supply chain capabilities, data processing, quality control procedures and engineering
  • Understanding of pricing concepts as it relates to sales of products
  • Proficient in Microsoft suite of Word, Power Point & Excel
  • Ability to draft moderate to complex, contractual instruments
  • Excellent knowledge of legal principles to enable identification of risk in business agreements, and negotiation of the same. FMS and international contracting experience a strong plus. Knowledge of U.S. export laws (ITAR/EAR) required. Ability to travel overseas if/as required.

Physical Requirements (Lifting, Walking, Bending, Stooping kneeling etc)
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit, walk, talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Integral Aerospace, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, marital or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening and applicants must meet INTEGRAL AEROSPACE security standards as imposed by DoD, including the issuance of any necessary security clearance by the U.S. Government within a reasonable time after commencement of employment. The Company will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background investigation and drug screen.
Integral Aerospace, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, marital or veteran status, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law.
This employer participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E-Verify program, please click here: http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify/employees
Position Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Minimum 5 years production planning experience in aerospace or similar manufacturing industry
  • A proactive team player with a background in production planning/scheduling and inventory control
  • Knowledge and experience of MRP/ERP and SCM in a data-driven environment
  • Proficient in MRP (Jobboss preferred but not required)
  • Must possess excellent reasoning and communication skills, high level of energy, creating thinking and problem solving abilities
  • Proficient in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word)
  • APICS certification (CPIM or CFPIM) a plus.

Shift
-not applicable-
Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time
Location
Applied Aerospace & Defense, Santa Ana
Category
Program Management
Req Number
PRO-23-00013
Position
Program Manager - Boylston
Close Date
Post Internal Days
0
Number of Openings
1
Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt
Hiring Manager(s)
Jacqueline Cadena
This position is currently accepting applications.