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

... contract. Security Clearance Type: None/Not Required Security Clearance Status: Not Required At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and ...

Contract, Temp2Hire Schedule: 6:00 am - 3:30pm (or 7 am - 4:30 pm) Mon-Thursday and every other ... aerospace and defense company. As a W2 employee you will have access to health benefits.

Contract, Temp2Hire Schedule: 6:00 am - 3:30pm (or 7 am - 4:30 pm) Mon-Thursday and every other ... aerospace and defense company. As a W2 employee you will have access to health benefits.

Senior Project Engineer

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$170K - $215K/yr

The role requires familiarity with the Department of Defense acquisition framework, including BAA, RFI, and RFP processes, as well as experience supporting DoD contracts and procurement activities.

Showing results 21-40

Defense Contract information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$17

$39

$59

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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:

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.

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer (Onsite)

Collins Aerospace

El Verano, CA • On-site

$95K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-08-14
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-CA-FAIRFIELD-3530 ~ 3530 Branscombe Rd ~ BRANSCOMBE
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.
Security Clearance Type:
None/Not Required
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
What You Will Do
  • Leading and providing technical guidance to junior engineers on the manufacturing engineering team in support of production Safety, Quality, Delivery and Cost metrics.
  • Troubleshoots and solves production problems with processes, tooling/fixtures, or equipment already in operation.
  • May make recommendations concerning acquisition and use of new technological equipment and materials.
  • Drive activities such as Root Cause Corrective Actions, and implement process improvements to prevent Safety or Quality issue reoccurrence.
  • Support Quality Control plans and Safety compliance actions
  • May propose the sequence of operations and installations and support in specifying procedures for fabrication of tools and equipment and other processes which may include disassembly/assembly and repairs, to ensure efficiency and optimize product functional performance.
  • Participates in the development of manufacturing processes for new product integration
  • Determine, develop and implement measurements throughout stages of production to determine control over applicable variables
  • Participates in the design and arrangement of machines within plant facilities to ensure more efficient and productive layout.
  • Managing high dollar value Process Improvement projects from Engineering Justification to Equipment Specification, Vendor Selection, Planning/Scheduling, Purchasing, Updates, Acquisition, Implementation, Validation/IQOQPQ, and any other related tasks needed to successfully execute the project.
  • Performing pre-production analysis on Process and Tooling/Equipment "readiness"
  • Performing various types of engineering analysis using various tools to adjust complex manufacturing processes to yield quality results.
  • Recommending Design changes to Mechanical Engineering Team to enhance manufacturability of the products manufactured or assembled at the Fairfield site.

Qualifications You Must Have
  • Typically requires a University Degree and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience
  • US Citizenship or Permanent Residence required.

Qualifications We Prefer
  • Solid interpersonal skills - ability to communicate and influence at all levels within an organization
  • Solid presentation skills - able to analyze, prepare, and deliver presentations to leadership
  • Knowledgeable in Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

What We Offer
Some of our competitive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Student Loan Repayment Program
  • Life insurance and disability coverage
  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Autism Benefit
  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
  • And more!

Learn More & Apply Now!
Operations, Supply Chain and EH&S:
The next chapter of our future as an aerospace company is here, and we are excited about what this means for our employees and customers! Get onboard the Collins Aerospace Operations team and play a part in managing our innovative products from inception to delivery. The Operations team continues to grow and aims to strengthen the connection of Manufacturing Operations, Supply Chain and Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S) across Collins Aerospace. In this dynamic environment, you will have the opportunity to network across our businesses and functions, all while improving the productivity, quality and efficiency of our operations worldwide.
Collins Aerospace, a RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.
WE ARE REDEFINING AEROSPACE.
*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.
Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form - with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.
Apply now and be part of the team that's redefining aerospace, every day!
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 95,500 USD - 181,700 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018