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Defense Contractor Communications Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC · On-site

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

Hypori

Senior Manager, DIB & CMMC Marketing

... direct exposure to the DIB or defense contractor market - you've either worked at a DIB company, marketed to DIB contractors, or supported CMMC compliance programs in a marketing or communications ...

Kratos Defense

Program Manager III

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

... 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 ...

Kratos Defense

Program Manager III

Oklahoma City, OK

... 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 ...

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Defense Contractor Communications Director information

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$35K

$102.3K

$170K

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

As of Aug 10, 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.
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Defense Contractor Communications Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Communications Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,257 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Communications Program Manager - Defense Health Agency

Vistra Communications

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description

Vistra Federal Solutions seeks a Communications Program Manager to lead a comprehensive communications and outreach program for the Defense Health Agency (DHA). The Communications Program Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, direction, and execution of all contract requirements for Communications and Public Affairs Support Services under the DHA. This position manages complex, multi-site, and multi-disciplinary teams delivering integrated, strategic communications. The Program Manager ensures performance meets contractual goals, aligns with the Government's objectives, and maintains high standards of quality, timeliness, and compliance.


  Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Provide day-to-day leadership and overall management of all contract support operations, including oversight of multiple projects and teams across various locations.
  • Direct and control the allocation of personnel, deliverables, and resources from project start through completion, ensuring all milestones and performance metrics are achieved.
  • Develop, implement, and maintain processes for communications planning, project tracking, and performance monitoring to ensure successful completion of all contract requirements.
  • Lead, mentor, and coordinate the activities of highly skilled program area experts, facilitating collaboration, innovation, and operational excellence.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for all Government contracting actions, communicating effectively with the COR, Government team leads, and corporate leadership.
  • Prepare and deliver regular reports, briefings, and status updates.
  • Proactively inform the COR of personnel changes, provide plans for immediate replacements, and ensure continuity of operations.
  • Oversee administrative requirements and place of duty assignments to ensure uninterrupted performance, quality control, and compliance with contractual obligations.
  • Play a key strategic role in developing communications strategies and tactics ensuring the contractor's support is fully aligned with the Government's mission and priorities.
  • Represent the contractor in meetings, negotiations, and communications with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring clarity, professionalism, and responsiveness.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Master's degree (or equivalent) in Communications, Public Relations, Public Health, or a related communications discipline.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is required.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience leading teams of program area experts in delivering integrated communications solutions.
  • Of the 10+ years, at least 5 years must involve working with the Department of Defense (DoD).
  • Demonstrated experience in organizing, resourcing, planning, and implementing communications projects from inception through completion across broad and diverse populations.
  • Proven expertise in setting up processes, managing resources, monitoring results, and measuring project performance and outcomes.
  • Exceptional oral and written communication skills with experience developing communications strategies and tactical plans.
  • Ability to work independently, manage multiple concurrent initiatives, and lead teams in a dynamic contractual environment.

Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Common Access Card (CAC) and security clearance/badge as required.
  • Familiarity with federal contracting environments, knowledge of Government PWS and reporting requirements.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with executive leaders, clients, and multidisciplinary teams.

About Vistra:  Vistra Communications, doing business as Vistra and Vistra Federal Solutions, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL with an office in Alexandria, VA providing professional support serviced to Defense, Federal, and Civilian Agencies.  Approximately 25% of our "team member" employees work in the National Capital Region, providing communications, outreach, and organizational transformation services to our public sector customers.  Vistra provides medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, Paid Time Off, Parental and Bereavement Leave, and Professional Development, among other benefits. 


US Citizenship Required: Due to the requirements of the federal contract that this position supports, U.S. citizenship is required. Citizenship will be confirmed via I-9/E-Verify at the start of employment.

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