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Defense Contract Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Structures Company

Coating Technician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$27/hr

Contract (12 months with potential for extension) * Clearance: Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance. * Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)

The Structures Company

Materials Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$19 - $94/hr

Contract (12 months with potential for extension) * Clearance: Ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance * Industry: Aerospace / Defense / Aviation * Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision (Cigna)

United States Coast Guard

Storekeeper

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22.25 - $29/hr

Contract specialist, contracting officer, and contracting officer representative training. Certifications as defense financial manager, public accountant, logistics technician, logistics associate ...

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Defense Contract information

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$17

$39

$59

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in Santa Rosa, CA is $39.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.89 and $47.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 or individual 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 cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Defense Contract jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Defense Contract job openings:

Defense Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,639 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Senior Business Development Engineer (Radar Test & Evaluation (Defense))

Santa Rosa, CA

Keysight Technologies, Inc.
Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 159 rated electronics manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about Keysight Technologies, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Overview

Keysight is at the forefront of technology innovation, delivering breakthroughs and trusted insights in electronic design, simulation, prototyping, test, manufacturing, and optimization. Our ~16,800 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy, quantum, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor markets for customers in over 100 countries. Learn more about what we do.

Our award-winning culture embraces a bold vision of where technology can take us and a passion for tackling challenging problems with industry-first solutions. We believe that when people feel a sense of belonging, they can be more creative, innovative, and thrive at all points in their careers.


Responsibilities

We are seeking a motivated Business Development leader to drive growth in the Radar Test & Evaluation (T&E) market across the Aerospace, Defense, and Government sectors. This individual will combine deep radar domain expertise, strong industry relationships, and a proactive, opportunity-creating mindset to identify, shape, and win strategic opportunities for advanced test solutions supporting radar development, integration, validation, production, and sustainment.

The ideal candidate brings extensive experience within the radar ecosystem, understands current and emerging radar architectures, and has a proven track record of influencing programs from concept development through acquisition and deployment. This role will work closely with product management, engineering, sales, and executive leadership to develop and execute growth strategies for radar-focused business initiatives.

Business Development & Growth
  • Develop and execute a strategic growth plan for the Radar Test & Evaluation market.
  • Identify, qualify, and shape new opportunities across radar modernization, missile defense, air defense, ISR, electronic warfare, and multi-domain sensing programs.
  • Build and maintain a robust pipeline of opportunities aligned with annual and long-term growth objectives.
  • Engage customers early in the acquisition cycle to influence requirements and position solutions before formal procurements.
  • Lead account-development strategies for key radar OEMs, system integrators, government laboratories, and defense agencies.
Market & Ecosystem Leadership
  • Map and maintain a comprehensive understanding of the radar ecosystem, including:
    • Prime contractors
    • Government laboratories
    • Research institutions
    • Range operators
    • System integrators
    • Emerging defense technology companies
  • Track funding priorities, technology roadmaps, and acquisition strategies impacting radar programs.
  • Identify technology trends and emerging requirements in:
    • AESA radars
    • Air and missile defense
    • Counter-UAS
    • Multi-function RF systems
    • Passive sensing
    • Cognitive radar
    • Digital engineering and digital twin initiatives
Customer Engagement
  • Establish trusted relationships with key global account managers, programmatic, and technical stakeholders.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for radar T&E applications and customer challenges.
  • Represent the company at industry events, conferences, trade shows, and customer engagements.
  • Facilitate strategic discussions with engineering, acquisition, and operational leadership.
Opportunity Shaping & Capture
  • Lead opportunity development from identification through contract award.
  • Develop win strategies and competitive positioning.
  • Coordinate internal resources to create compelling technical and business value propositions.
  • Support proposal development, capture planning, and customer presentations.
  • Partner with product teams to influence future roadmap investments based on customer needs.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Significant experience (typically 5+ years) in radar systems, radar testing, electronic warfare, RF systems, or defense sensing technologies.
  • Substantial experience (typically 5+ years) in business development, capture, program management, or strategic account management within Aerospace & Defense.
  • Demonstrated success identifying, developing, and winning new business opportunities while building lasting customer relationships.
  • Strong understanding of radar architectures, performance metrics, and validation methodologies.
  • Experience working with defense acquisition organizations, laboratories, or major defense contractors.
  • Ability to develop executive-level customer relationships and influence strategic decisions.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 40%.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting or developing:
    • AESA radar systems
    • Missile defense sensors
    • Airborne radar platforms
    • Naval radar systems
    • Ground-based surveillance radars
  • Prior military service in radar, air defense, intelligence, or electronic warfare disciplines.
  • Existing relationships across the defense radar community.
  • Knowledge of radar modeling and simulation, digital engineering, and hardware-in-the-loop test environments.
  • Active U.S. security clearance or eligibility to obtain one.

The level of role will be based on applicable experience, education and skills; Most offers will be between the minimum and the midpoint of the Salary Range listed below.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 

#LI-MO1

California Pay range: MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $246,000.00

Colorado pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

District of Columbia pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Hawaii pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Illinois pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Maryland pay range:  MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

Massachusetts pay range: MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

Minnesota pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

New Jersey City pay range: MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

New York pay range: MIN $148,000.00 - MAX $246,000.00

Vermont pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Washington state pay range:  MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

Note: For other locations, pay ranges will vary by region.

This role is eligible for Keysight's Variable Pay Bonus Program

US Employees may be eligible for the following benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision
  • Health Savings Account
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life, Accident, Disability insurance
  • Business Travel Accident and Business Travel Health
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible Time Off, Paid Holidays
  • Paid Family Leave
  • Discounts, Perks
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Adoption Assistance
  • ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan)
  • Restricted Stock Units

Careers Privacy Statement ***Keysight is an Equal Opportunity Employer.***

Keysight Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected categories under all applicable laws. 

This position requires access to certain goods, software, technology, or technical data subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations. Under these laws and regulations, U.S. persons (which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees) working for Keysight can access export-controlled items without authorization from the U.S. government. For any individual who is not a U.S. person, Keysight may need authorization from the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Commerce, or other appropriate federal agency before the individual can access export-controlled items. Employment in this position for non-U.S. persons is contingent on Keysight’s ability to obtain any required government authorizations.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Significant experience (typically 5+ years) in radar systems, radar testing, electronic warfare, RF systems, or defense sensing technologies.
  • Substantial experience (typically 5+ years) in business development, capture, program management, or strategic account management within Aerospace & Defense.
  • Demonstrated success identifying, developing, and winning new business opportunities while building lasting customer relationships.
  • Strong understanding of radar architectures, performance metrics, and validation methodologies.
  • Experience working with defense acquisition organizations, laboratories, or major defense contractors.
  • Ability to develop executive-level customer relationships and influence strategic decisions.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 40%.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting or developing:
    • AESA radar systems
    • Missile defense sensors
    • Airborne radar platforms
    • Naval radar systems
    • Ground-based surveillance radars
  • Prior military service in radar, air defense, intelligence, or electronic warfare disciplines.
  • Existing relationships across the defense radar community.
  • Knowledge of radar modeling and simulation, digital engineering, and hardware-in-the-loop test environments.
  • Active U.S. security clearance or eligibility to obtain one.

The level of role will be based on applicable experience, education and skills; Most offers will be between the minimum and the midpoint of the Salary Range listed below.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. 

#LI-MO1

California Pay range: MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $246,000.00

Colorado pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

District of Columbia pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Hawaii pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Illinois pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Maryland pay range:  MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

Massachusetts pay range: MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

Minnesota pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

New Jersey City pay range: MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

New York pay range: MIN $148,000.00 - MAX $246,000.00

Vermont pay range: MIN $124,000.00 - MAX $208,000.00

Washington state pay range:  MIN $134,000.00 - MAX $224,000.00

Note: For other locations, pay ranges will vary by region.

This role is eligible for Keysight's Variable Pay Bonus Program

US Employees may be eligible for the following benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision
  • Health Savings Account
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life, Accident, Disability insurance
  • Business Travel Accident and Business Travel Health
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible Time Off, Paid Holidays
  • Paid Family Leave
  • Discounts, Perks
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Adoption Assistance
  • ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan)
  • Restricted Stock Units

Careers Privacy Statement ***Keysight is an Equal Opportunity Employer.***

Keysight Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected categories under all applicable laws. 

This position requires access to certain goods, software, technology, or technical data subject to U.S. export control laws and regulations. Under these laws and regulations, U.S. persons (which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees) working for Keysight can access export-controlled items without authorization from the U.S. government. For any individual who is not a U.S. person, Keysight may need authorization from the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of Commerce, or other appropriate federal agency before the individual can access export-controlled items. Employment in this position for non-U.S. persons is contingent on Keysight’s ability to obtain any required government authorizations.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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