ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defense Contracting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Jobot

Insurance Defense Attorney

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$150K - $210K/yr

Our team handles a wide range of insurance defense, construction defect and general liability ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Kratos Defense

Inventory Clerk I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer I

Roseville, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Kratos Defense

Aircraft Assembler I-III

Sacramento, CA

$24 - $33/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

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 21, 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.

Head of Growth & Capture - Defense Systems

Approach Venture LLC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Head of Growth & Capture - Lead Business Development for Next-Generation Defense Manufacturing
Los Angeles, CA | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a venture-backed defense technology company developing advanced manufacturing capabilities for mission-critical defense systems. The team is building scalable production technologies that enable critical components to be manufactured faster, more efficiently, and at significantly greater scale than conventional methods. Their platform supports a growing portfolio of applications across munitions, propulsion systems, aerospace hardware, advanced materials, and other national security priorities. As the Head of Growth & Capture, you will lead the company's government growth strategy and serve as the executive responsible for identifying, shaping, and winning high-value defense programs. This is a highly strategic role focused on building relationships across government, industry, and defense primes while driving capture efforts from early customer engagement through contract award. Initially, you will operate as a hands-on individual contributor before building and leading the company's capture organization as the business continues to scale.
About Us
We are an early-stage defense technology company commercializing advanced manufacturing solutions for high-performance defense and aerospace applications. Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in engineering, materials science, manufacturing, and defense programs to develop production technologies that strengthen the U.S. industrial base and accelerate delivery of mission-critical hardware. Backed by experienced investors and entering a period of significant growth, we are building foundational manufacturing capabilities that support the next generation of defense systems.
Job Duties
  • Develop and execute the company's long-term government growth and capture strategy.
  • Identify, qualify, and pursue new opportunities across munitions, weapons systems, propulsion, aerospace hardware, advanced materials, and defense manufacturing.
  • Build trusted relationships with Department of War organizations, military acquisition offices, defense laboratories, warfare centers, prime contractors, and strategic industry partners.
  • Prioritize growth efforts supporting Army programs while expanding opportunities across Navy, Air Force, and other defense organizations.
  • Engage customers early to understand mission requirements, influence future opportunities, and position the company before formal solicitations are released.
  • Lead capture activities from opportunity identification through contract award, including customer engagement, competitive strategy, proposal planning, and executive reviews.
  • Partner closely with engineering leadership to develop technically credible manufacturing solutions aligned with customer requirements.
  • Develop capture plans, pricing strategies, statements of work, and execution roadmaps for strategic pursuits.
  • Monitor defense funding priorities, acquisition strategies, competitive activity, and emerging technologies to guide business development efforts.
  • Develop strategic partnerships with government organizations, defense contractors, research institutions, and commercial partners.
  • Build scalable business development infrastructure, including CRM processes, pipeline management, forecasting, and capture methodologies.
  • Represent the company during executive customer meetings, industry conferences, technical reviews, and strategic planning sessions.
  • Recruit, mentor, and build a high-performing capture and business development organization as the company grows.

Qualifications
  • 8+ years of experience leading capture, business development, or strategic growth within defense, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, or other highly technical industries.
  • Demonstrated history of winning Department of Defense contracts supporting weapons systems, munitions, propulsion, missile systems, advanced manufacturing, or related defense technologies.
  • Proven experience leading capture efforts from early customer engagement through contract award.
  • Strong understanding of Department of Defense acquisition processes, procurement strategy, and competitive capture planning.
  • Existing network across military acquisition organizations, government program offices, defense primes, or related defense organizations.
  • Experience collaborating with engineering teams to develop technically credible solutions, pricing strategies, and execution plans.
  • Excellent communication, executive presentation, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
  • Comfortable operating within a fast-paced startup environment where priorities evolve quickly.
  • Self-directed leader capable of building new processes while delivering immediate business results.

Preferred Experience
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Naval Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Experience supporting weapons systems, munitions, missile systems, solid rocket motors, propulsion systems, aerospace platforms, or defense manufacturing programs.
  • Experience working with military acquisition commands, defense laboratories, warfare centers, or other government organizations supporting national security programs.
  • Strong understanding of advanced materials, composite manufacturing, precision machining, additive manufacturing, or other advanced production technologies.
  • Experience helping an early-stage or high-growth defense company scale government revenue.
  • Experience supporting SBIR, STTR, OTA, BAA, or other non-traditional acquisition pathways.
  • Demonstrated success influencing customer requirements prior to formal solicitations.
  • Existing relationships with major defense contractors and strategic government stakeholders.
  • Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance.

Why Join Us
  • Meaningful early-stage equity opportunity.
  • Executive leadership role with direct influence on company strategy and long-term growth.
  • Opportunity to build and lead the company's capture and business development organization.
  • Work alongside experienced engineering leaders developing next-generation defense manufacturing technologies.
  • High-impact environment where your work directly influences company growth and national security programs.
  • Fast-moving startup with significant opportunities for professional growth and executive leadership.

Compensation Details
$180,000 - $250,000
#LI-AV

Apply