ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defense Contractor Communications Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense

Director Business Development

CA · Remote

$195K - $250K/yr

... communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and ... As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ...

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC

Manage relationships with contractors and coordinate closely with Navier's defense advisory board ... Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefense Contractor Communications JobsDefense Contractor Communications Director Jobs

Defense Contractor Communications Director information

See salary details

$35K

$102.3K

$170K

How much do defense contractor communications director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor communications director in the United States is $102,257.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Defense Contractor Communications Director typically collaborate with technical teams and executives to ensure consistent messaging?

A Defense Contractor Communications Director regularly works with both technical teams and executive leadership to craft messaging that aligns with company objectives and complies with industry regulations. This role involves translating complex technical information into clear, accessible language for various audiences, while also safeguarding sensitive data. Effective collaboration often means attending project briefings, leading cross-functional meetings, and providing media training to subject matter experts. Building strong relationships across departments is crucial to ensure all communications are accurate, timely, and consistent with organizational goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defense Contractor Communications Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Contractor Communications Director, you need a background in communications, public relations, or journalism, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree and experience in defense or government sectors. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, crisis communication platforms, and knowledge of government compliance regulations are essential. Outstanding leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to convey complex information clearly are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure effective communication with stakeholders, uphold the organization's reputation, and support mission-critical objectives in a sensitive and highly regulated industry.

What does a Defense Contractor Communications Director do?

A Defense Contractor Communications Director is responsible for developing and managing the internal and external communications strategies for a defense contracting company. This includes overseeing public relations, media outreach, crisis communication, and employee messaging to ensure consistent and compliant communication with stakeholders, clients, and the public. They often coordinate with government agencies and must adhere to strict regulations regarding sensitive information. Their role is crucial in maintaining the company's reputation and ensuring clear, accurate information is shared.
More about Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs? Cities with the most Defense Contractor Communications Director job openings:
What states have the most Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs are:
Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Communications Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,257 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Strategic Communications Director (Tech, Cyber, AI)

P3Hired

Arlington, VA

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Overview

Vrge Strategies is a boutique public affairs and technology communications agency that develops strategic campaigns to win battles over technology, policy and security. We are nimble, resilient and proactive. We are seeking a seasoned Strategic Communications Director to serve as a senior client advisor and lead high-impact communications strategies across a diverse portfolio of clients.

This role is ideal for a strategic, client-facing leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can manage multiple concurrent engagements, and is passionate about shaping narratives at the intersection of technology and public policy.

The Strategic Communications Director serves as a lead strategist and primary client partner, responsible for developing and driving integrated communications campaigns. This individual will oversee multiple client engagements, guide internal client account teams, and ensure the successful execution of high-quality deliverables.

While this role does not include direct reports, it requires strong leadership across project teams, the ability to influence without authority, and ownership of client outcomes.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a senior strategic advisor and primary point of contact for clients, providing high-level counsel on communications strategy, positioning, and messaging

  • Lead the development and execution of integrated communications campaigns across public affairs, media relations, and advocacy initiatives

  • Manage multiple client engagements simultaneously, ensuring alignment on goals, timelines, and deliverables

  • Drive client strategy by identifying opportunities, shaping narratives, and advising on proactive and reactive communications approaches

  • Lead client meetings, presentations, and strategic planning sessions with confidence and clarity

  • Oversee media relations strategy, including message development, media targeting, and earned media positioning

  • Guide and direct internal A-team members across accounts, ensuring high-quality execution of deliverables

  • Collaborate with senior leadership on campaign strategy, business development, and client growth opportunities

  • Manage crisis communications and high-stakes issues with sound judgment and strategic insight

  • Ensure all work reflects a high standard of quality, creativity, and impact

Qualifications

  • 5 - 10 years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, policy/advocacy communications, media relations, or related field

  • Proven experience serving in a senior client-facing, advisory role with ownership of communications strategy

  • Demonstrated ability to lead multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced, agency or consulting environment

  • Strong understanding of technology policy and the ability to translate complex issues into compelling narratives

  • Established media relationships, particularly within technology, policy, and national media landscapes

  • Exceptional writing, editing, and messaging skills across formats and audiences

  • Strong executive presence with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and clients

  • Highly organized with excellent project management and prioritization skills

  • Experience guiding internal teams and collaborating cross-functionally without direct management authority

  • Experience working in an agency environment supporting multiple clients

  • Experience directing advocacy/public policy campaigns a plus

  • Background in technology, cybersecurity, fintech, defense tech, or related background strongly preferred

The expected salary range for this role is $120,000 to $130,000, along with a comprehensive benefits package.