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Defense Contracting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

EnduroSat

Federal Contracting Lawyer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

You will also need a strong grasp of how Government agencies and large Defense contractors structure and execute deals, including teaming agreements, subcontracts, and public procurement processes.

EnduroSat

Federal Contracting Lawyer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$180K - $240K/yr

You will also need a strong grasp of how Government agencies and large Defense contractors structure and execute deals, including teaming agreements, subcontracts, and public procurement processes.

Inversion

Senior System Administrator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$97K - $154K/yr

Overview We are seeking an experienced System Administrator to support missioncritical IT infrastructure within a defense contracting environment. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical ...

NewVac, an AAR Company

General Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$145K - $195K/yr

Support business development efforts with Tier-1 aerospace and defense contractors. * Maintain rigorous compliance with AS9100, ITAR, and defense program quality standards. * Ensure mission-critical ...

Armtec Defense Technologies

R&D Manager

Coachella, CA · On-site

Previous DOD experience or a basic understanding of Defense contracting. * ISO 9000 procedures. * Some military/college or external training in Project or Program Management. * Must be dependable ...

Armtec Defense Technologies

R&D Manager

Coachella, CA · On-site

$110 - $153/hr

Previous DOD experience or a basic understanding of Defense contracting. * ISO 9000 procedures. * Some military/college or external training in Project or Program Management. * Must be dependable ...

Jobot

Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA · Remote

$140K - $200K/yr

Personal Injury Defense Attorney This Jobot Job is hosted by: Sharon Brown Are you a fit? Easy ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Armtec Defense Technologies

R&D Manager

Coachella, CA · On-site

$110K - $196K/yr

Previous DOD experience or a basic understanding of Defense contracting. * ISO 9000 procedures. * Some military/college or external training in Project or Program Management. * Must be dependable ...

Scout AI

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$135K - $136K/yr

S. Government proposals or defense contracting submissions • Strong understanding of federal proposal processes and evaluation structures • Experience coordinating complex technical programs ...

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All JobsDefense Contracting JobsDefense Contracting Jobs in California

Defense Contracting information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$46.5K

$69.6K

How much do defense contracting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contracting in California is $46,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,400.00 and $46,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is defense contracting?

Defense contracting refers to the process where private companies provide goods or services to military or defense agencies, such as the Department of Defense. These contracts can cover a wide range of products and services, including weapons, equipment, technology, consulting, and logistical support. Defense contractors may work on projects ranging from research and development to large-scale manufacturing. The industry is highly regulated, requiring strict adherence to government standards and compliance with security protocols. Working in defense contracting often involves background checks and security clearances due to the sensitive nature of the work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense contractor?

To thrive as a Defense Contractor, you need a strong understanding of government procurement processes, compliance regulations (such as FAR/DFARS), and often a background in engineering, logistics, or project management. Familiarity with contracting software systems, security clearance requirements, and certifications like PMP or ITAR compliance is typically necessary. Exceptional attention to detail, negotiation skills, and the ability to work collaboratively under strict deadlines are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure legal compliance, secure project delivery, and effective client relationships in a highly regulated and competitive industry.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in defense contracting, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in defense contracting often encounter challenges such as navigating complex government regulations, meeting strict compliance standards, and managing evolving project requirements. They must stay updated with federal acquisition regulations (FAR) and ensure all documentation meets security and confidentiality guidelines. Effective communication with both clients and cross-functional teams is essential to handle shifting priorities and tight deadlines. Building strong organizational and time-management skills, as well as staying proactive about industry changes, can help mitigate these challenges and lead to a successful career in the field.

How do you get into defense contracting?

To get into defense contracting, candidates typically need relevant experience in engineering, logistics, or cybersecurity, along with a security clearance which requires a background check. Many roles also require a bachelor's degree in a related field and familiarity with government procurement processes and compliance standards.

Is defense contracting a good career?

Defense contracting is a stable career option that involves working on government defense projects, often requiring security clearances and specialized skills such as engineering, logistics, or cybersecurity. It offers competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but may involve strict regulations and security protocols. Job satisfaction depends on individual interests in defense and government work environments.

What does a defense contracting do?

A defense contracting professional works for a company that provides products and services to military and government agencies, such as developing technology, manufacturing equipment, or offering technical support. They often require knowledge of security protocols, government regulations, and technical skills related to defense systems. The role may involve working on projects that enhance national security and military capabilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contracting jobs in California?

The most popular types of Defense Contracting jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Defense Contracting jobs in California?

For Defense Contracting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Contracting jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contracting jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Defense Contracting jobs?

Cities in California with the most Defense Contracting job openings:

Defense Contracting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contracting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,544 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Federal Contracting Lawyer

EnduroSat

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

About us
We are EnduroSat! A fast-growing space scale-up at the forefront of satellite innovation, specializing in advanced software-flexible satellites for commercial, governmental, and scientific endeavors.

  • This is more than a job, it’s a mission

    We are making space universally accessible and redefining what's possible.

  • We get things done

    We take ownership of what we do and we work hard to make a difference.

  • We are fearless

    Transparency is our only way forward. We dare to address and resolve issues head-on.

  • We learn from our mistakes

    We deliver, take informed risks, and evolve to achieve our goals. We compare with the best version of ourselves

What is the role?

As an experienced Federal Contracting Lawyer you will become the founding legal leader for our US operations. In this role, you will own the entire contracting process — from proposal through award, negotiation, execution, and closeout — while building the legal function from the ground up and, over time, growing and managing your own team.

You will be the go-to expert on the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), ensuring EnduroSat remains fully compliant as we scale our work with the US Government and major Defense primes. You will also need a strong grasp of how Government agencies and large Defense contractors structure and execute deals, including teaming agreements, subcontracts, and public procurement processes.

This role is based in Los Angeles, California. It will begin as remote and, over time, transition to a fully on-site position.

Some of your daily tasks will include

  • Managing the full lifecycle of federal contracts, from proposal and negotiation through award and closeout
  • Ensuring compliance with FAR, DFARS, and related federal procurement regulations
  • Advising on export control matters under ITAR/EAR in the context of government and defense contracting
  • Negotiating terms directly with government agencies (e.g., DoD, NASA) and prime/subcontractors in the defense industry
  • Structuring and reviewing teaming agreements, subcontracts, NDAs, and IP/licensing terms tied to government work
  • Advising executive leadership on legal risk, deal structure, and procurement strategy
  • Supporting proposal development with legal review for public procurement bids
  • Monitoring changes in federal acquisition policy and regulatory updates that impact the business
  • Laying the groundwork to build, hire, and eventually lead a broader legal team as the company scales

What do you need?

  • J.D. and active license to practice law in the US (California Bar preferred)
  • 7+ years of experience in federal contracting law, government contracts, or related legal work within the Aerospace/Defense industry
  • Deep working knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and DFARS
  • Hands-on experience with ITAR/EAR export control compliance
  • Proven experience negotiating and structuring contracts with federal agencies and/or large Defense primes
  • Familiarity with the public procurement process end-to-end
  • Ability and willingness to build and eventually manage a legal team
  • Strong negotiation, drafting, and stakeholder management skills

Personal skills

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving mindset
  • A quick learner, proactive, self-starter
  • Excellent communication skills
  • A team player with a positive attitude
  • Comfortable operating with a high degree of ownership in a fast-scaling environment 

What do we offer?

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Matching 401k plan
  • Collaboration with the EnduroSat offices with occasional international travel
Salary range: $180,000 – $240,000 per year. The salary will likely be within this range although it may differ based on experience level or other factors.


At EnduroSat, we embrace diversity and strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with fairness and respect. We are committed to equal employment opportunities without discrimination against any employee or job applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, this position is suitable for people with disabilities in accordance with the People with Disabilities National Regulation Act, ensuring accessibility and accommodation in the workplace.

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