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Defense Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC

Identify, target, and secure defense contracts with the US DoD (US Navy, SOCOM, ATFP, CBP, Coast Guard etc) and allied international organizations. * Serve as the primary point of contact for defense ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Contracts Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. Additionally, may lead audits both internal and external to the company. * Oversee maintenance of accurate files for ...

AeroVironment

Contracts Manager

Simi Valley, CA

$91K - $122K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. Additionally, may lead audits both internal and external to the company. * Oversee maintenance of accurate files for ...

AeroVironment

Contracts Manager

Arlington, VA

$102K - $136K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. Additionally, may lead audits both internal and external to the company. * Oversee maintenance of accurate files for ...

AeroVironment

Contracts Manager

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$102K - $136K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. May serve as the primary point of contact for all internal and external audits. * Oversee maintenance of accurate ...

AeroVironment

Contracts Manager

Dayton, OH · Hybrid

$86K - $115K/yr

Liaison with Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and other audit agencies. May serve as the primary point of contact for all internal and external audits. * Oversee maintenance of accurate ...

General Motors

Contract Manager - GM Defense

$91K - $121K/yr

This position is a dynamic role that will include proactive contract & subcontract management support on GM Defense LLC (GMD) programs from capture to execution and close out. This position is ...

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Defense Contract information

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$15

$36

$54

How much do defense contract jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contract in the United States is $36.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.44 and $43.75 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.
More about Defense Contract jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Contract jobs? Cities with the most Defense Contract job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense jobs? The most popular types of Defense jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Contract jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Contract jobs include:
Defense Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contract job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,585 per year, or $36.3 per hour.
Contract Specialist I

Contract Specialist I

Chenega Professional & Technical Services

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Summary

Come join a company that strives for Extraordinary People and Exceptional Performance! Chenega Professional & Technical Services, LLC, a Chenega Professional Services’ company, is looking for a Contracts Specialist I to provide acquisition support services to the Office of Acquisition Management (OAM) and Management and Budget (MB) within the Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).  The Contracts Specialist I will assist NNSA in contract and grant closeouts.

Our company offers employees the opportunity to join a team where there is a robust employee benefits program, management engagement, quality leadership, an atmosphere of teamwork, recognition for performance, and promotion opportunities. We actively strive to channel our highly engaged employee’s knowledge, critical thinking, innovative solutions for our clients.


Responsibilities
  • Receive and upload into automated systems contract information.
  • Close all types of contracts and prepare the closeout file accordingly.
  • Contact contractors as needed to obtain required documentation.
  • Fill out a completion checklist to track and document closeout actions.
  • Review documents submitted by contractors for accuracy and completeness.
  • Obtain required scientific and technical reports.
  • Prepare modifications to de-obligate excess funds, and/or close out the contracts.
  • Record the closeout, update all systems with retired date and distribute finalized documentation to appropriate offices.
  • Submit all files of a closed instrument to the appropriate entity for Records Inventory Disposition Schedule (RIDS).
  • When required, request audit information from the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) or from NNSA and reconcile audit information.
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications
  • Minimum of a High School diploma.
  • Must be able to report onsite full time in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
  • Minimum of one to three years contracting with experience in general contract closeout procedures.
  • A Bachelor’s degree can be substituted for 2 years of experience combined with 1 year of on-the-job experience to meet the minimum qualification of 3 years (total) contracting experience.
  • Must possess knowledge of general procedures for contract closeout, including de-obligation of any funding balances, closeout modifications, contract file validation, review, and validation of financial records, and preparing past performance information.

 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Skilled at using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook Mail, Microsoft Edge, and Adobe Acrobat.

Estimated Salary/Wage
USD $62,000.00/Yr. Up to USD $68,000.00/Yr.

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