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Defense Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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 ...

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC · On-site

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

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$91K - $122K/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 ...

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

Simi Valley, CA · Hybrid

$91K - $122K/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, Inc.

Contracts Manager

Pottstown, PA · 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 ...

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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 Aug 11, 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.

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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,585 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Contract Specialist II

Chenega Professional & Technical Services

Albuquerque, NM

$74K/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 II 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 II will provide assistance to NNSA on contract closeout procedures, cost-type contract closeout procedures, and by performing various contract administration support functions.

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.
  • Provide cost/price analysis as needed. Such support includes, but is not limited to the following:
    • Knowledge of cost and/or price analysis techniques to evaluate final contract pricing.
    • Knowledge of cost and/or price analysis techniques in negotiating final invoice costs or expired cost-type contracts.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of a high school diploma.
  • Minimum of three (3) years contracting with experience in general contract closeout procedures and cost-type contract closeout procedures.
  • Must have experience in contract administration functions to include various types of contract modifications.
  • 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. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Working knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Department of Energy Acquisition Regulation (DEAR)
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated experience in maintaining good rapport and discretion in communicating with vendors, contractors, universities, non-profits, or other organizations.
  • Must possess knowledge of general procedures for contract award, management, and closeout.
  • Skilled at using Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook Mail, Microsoft Edge, and Adobe Acrobat. 

Estimated Salary/Wage
USD $74,000.00/Yr. Up to USD $80,000.00/Yr.

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