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Defense Contracting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท 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 ...

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $136K/yr

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

Defense Attorney

Irvine, CA ยท 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.

Experience working at an emerging technology defense contractor * Experience in strategy consulting * Experience in the maritime industry or with a government agency dealing with the marine domain

Director, Defense

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$243 - $297/hr

Experience working at an emerging technology defense contractor * Experience in strategy consulting * Experience in the maritime industry or with a government agency dealing with the marine domain

New

Experience working at an emerging technology defense contractor * Experience in strategy consulting * Experience in the maritime industry or with a government agency dealing with the marine domain

Plant Controller

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$188K - $250K/yr

Working knowledge of revenue recognition principles, including ASC 606; defense contracting experience is strongly preferred.Solid understanding of GAAP, Sarbanes-Oxley requirements, internal ...

New

Showing results 21-40

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 8, 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.

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. Networking with industry professionals and applying through government or contractor job portals can also help secure positions in this field.

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 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.

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 defense standards, security clearances, and project management skills to support national security objectives.

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 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:
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.

SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER (Aerospace & Defense)

Marvin Group

Inglewood, CA โ€ข On-site

$121K - $121K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary is based on experience, skills, and education

This position is 100% onsite

The Marvin Group is a Strategic Partner for Global Alternate Mission Equipment and Sustainment
The Marvin Group, a leading defense contractor, plays a crucial role in the development and manufacturing of various systems for military aerospace and vehicles. Based in Southern California near the Los Angeles International Airport, The Marvin Group consists of Marvin Engineering (MEC), Marvin Test Solutions (MTS) and Marvin Land Systems (MLS). ย Marvin Engineering designs and produces military Alternate Mission Equipment. ย Marvin Test Solutions designs and manufactures armament Test Equipment. Marvin Land Systems specializes in the design and build of power and thermal management systems. For over 60 years we have maintained "A Tradition of Excellence", serving as a trusted source for our unwavering commitment to supporting all branches of the Department of Defense and our global allies. Our collaboration extends across a diverse array of programs and platforms, including major military prime contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon.

SUMMARY:

Senior Program Manager, Launch Systems PMO

Marvin Engineering Company (MEC), a long-standing defense contractor supporting all branches of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied nations, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Program Manager to lead our largest and most complex contracts within the Launch Systems PMO. For more than 60 years, MEC has partnered with major prime contractors including Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing, SAAB, and KAI on a wide range of aerospace and defense platforms. The Senior Program Manager may be called upon to support the Senior Director leading the PMO and to act on the Director's behalf when the Director is unavailable.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Manage all aspects of the organization's largest and most complex contracts and program portfolios, including budget oversight, profit and loss accountability, reporting, and product line responsibilities. Demonstrated proficiency with Earned Value Management (EVM) is required.
  • Review, negotiate, and approve contracts, purchase orders, and contract amendments, including high-value and strategically significant agreements.
  • Lead proposal and quoting activities for major pursuits, including pricing strategy, lead-time assessments, and competitive positioning.
  • Collaborate across functional groups-sales development, contracts, supply chain, production planning, operations, machining, quality, and engineering-to ensure on-time product delivery.
  • Build and maintain executive-level relationships with internal stakeholders and external customers, serving as a senior point of contact for key accounts.
  • Prepare and lead program updates and financial metrics for executive, PMO, board, and customer reviews.
  • Mentor and provide guidance to Program Managers and Deputy Program Managers, sharing best practices and supporting their professional development.
  • Support the Senior Director leading the PMO and act on the Director's behalf when the Director is unavailable, including representing the PMO in executive and customer forums and making program decisions within delegated authority.
  • Travel to customer sites, trade shows, or conferences as required.
  • Execute all duties in compliance with MEC policies and procedures.


SKILLS / REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (Master's or MBA preferred), plus 10+ years of directly applicable program management experience, including managing large, complex, or high-value contracts; equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required, along with the ability to meet federal government access requirements for controlled unclassified information.
  • Experience in the military, defense, or aerospace fields-particularly involving U.S. fighter, bomber, or helicopter platforms, or defense weapon systems-is highly desirable.
  • Proven ability to develop and integrate strategies, goals, and objectives at the portfolio level; extensive experience leading cross-functional programs, resources, and teams.
  • Demonstrated leadership presence and sound judgment, with the ability to make program decisions under delegated authority and represent the PMO in the absence of the Senior Director.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manuals.
  • SAP experience highly desired; proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Project, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) required.
  • Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, Supply Chain Management, Project Management, Program Management, Purchasing Management, Production & Inventory Control) are strongly preferred.
  • Ability to multitask and work effectively in a fast-paced environment managing a portfolio of multiple high-priority programs.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak English.
  • Must meet ITAR requirements as a "U.S. person" (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, political asylee, or refugee).

This position must meet export control compliance requirements. All applicants must be "U.S. persons" within the meaning of ITAR, as defined: a U.S. Citizen, a lawful permanent resident, political asylee, or refugee.
Interested parties please apply online and submit resume to https://jobs.marvingroup.com/
Visit us at https://http://marvingroup.com/
The Marvin Group is an EEO/Disability/Vets Employer.
Our company uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify.
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact People & Culture at 310.674.5030.

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