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Defense Contractor Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense

Software Engineer I

Roseville, CA

$85K - $95K/yr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft ... Develops product software using software engineering best-practices, while adhering to KUAS ...

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 ... Develops product software using software engineering best-practices, while adhering to KUAS ...

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Defense Contractor Engineering information

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How much do defense contractor engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense contractor engineering in the United States is $137,006.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,500.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense contractor engineer?

Defense Contractor Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain technologies, systems, and equipment used by military organizations. They typically work for private companies contracted by government defense agencies to provide specialized engineering expertise. Their projects can range from weapons systems and vehicles to communication networks and cybersecurity solutions. These engineers must often meet strict security requirements and adhere to government standards and regulations.

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

To thrive as a Defense Contractor Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering principles, security clearance eligibility, and relevant degrees such as electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering. Familiarity with defense industry standards, CAD software, modeling tools, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the development of secure, reliable systems while meeting rigorous government requirements and working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges defense contractor engineers face when working on government projects?

Defense contractor engineers often encounter strict regulatory requirements and security protocols, which can add complexity to daily tasks and project timelines. Balancing innovation with compliance is a frequent challenge, as is adapting to evolving client needs and shifting project scopes. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including government personnel, other contractors, and internal stakeholders—is essential for success. Engineers should also be prepared for periodic security clearances and documentation requirements unique to defense projects.

What is the difference between Defense Contractor Engineering vs Defense Systems Engineer?

AspectDefense Contractor EngineeringDefense Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, security clearance often requiredBachelor's or higher in engineering or related field, security clearance common
Work EnvironmentContractor offices, military facilities, project sitesMilitary bases, defense contractor facilities, R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily defense contractors working on military projectsDefense agencies and contractors designing defense systems
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for project roles in defense contractingCompared for system design and integration roles

Defense Contractor Engineering involves working on defense projects within contracting firms, focusing on engineering tasks for military applications. Defense Systems Engineers design, develop, and integrate complex defense systems. While both roles require engineering credentials and security clearances, Defense Contractor Engineers typically focus on project execution, whereas Defense Systems Engineers concentrate on system design and integration.

Does the Department of Defense hire engineers?

Yes, the Department of Defense hires engineers for various roles in defense technology, systems development, and research. These positions often require security clearances, specialized skills, and adherence to government standards and protocols.

How much do defense contractor engineers make?

Defense contractor engineers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and security clearance level. Salaries can vary based on specialization, location, and the complexity of projects they work on, with senior roles and those requiring specialized skills often earning higher wages.
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What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor Engineering jobs look for?

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Defense Contractor Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,006 per year, or $65.9 per hour.

Manager - Defense Contracts & Technical Engineering

Guill Tool & Engineering

West Warwick, RI • On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Defense Contracts & Technical Engineering Manager
Position Type: Full-time.
Job Description: 
We are seeking a dynamic, results-driven individual to lead a multifunctional team responsible for interpreting, executing, and managing government and commercial defense contracts from initial quote through final delivery. This high-impact role requires knowledge of both FAR, DFARS, and NAVSEA procurement standards in addition to a strong background in manufacturing processes.  This position entails direct involvement in contract quoting, proposal development, and customer relationship management, as well as overseeing the deployment of robust process documentation to support lean, efficient production processes in a high-mix, low-volume machining environment.

The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in both government contracting and technical manufacturing, combined with solid business acumen, exceptional process management skills, and a customer-oriented mindset. This role will be instrumental in driving operational excellence while contributing to revenue generation and contract growth.

Key Responsibilities:
Sales & Contract Management:
  • Contract Award Support: Serve as a key participant in contract negotiations and award discussions with customers, ensuring accurate representation of capabilities and requirements.
  • Quoting & Proposal Development: Lead or support the preparation of technical and cost proposals, including manufacturing process estimates, labor routing, and pricing strategies. Identify contractual risks early in the bidding process to ensure all quality, safety, and special material (e.g., Level I/SUBSAFE) requirements are integrated into the project plan.
  • Customer Relationship Management: Act as a primary point of contact (POC) for customers regarding contract requirements, clarifications, and performance updates.
  • Revenue Forecasting: Collaborate with sales and finance to provide accurate forecasts and track contract pipeline, awards, and execution status.

Manufacturing Process Compliance & Documentation:
  • Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all documentation and processes comply with relevant government regulations (FAR/ DFARS/ ITAR/NAVSEA), contractual requirements, and AS9100 quality standards.
  • Contract Modifications: Manage and implement changes resulting from contract modifications, ensuring timely updates to documentation and internal systems/processes.
  • Process Standardization: Develop, implement, and maintain departmental standard operating procedures (SOPs) that ensure consistent review and execution of defense contracts.  Support procurement and process engineering activities by interpreting contractual requirements and accurately and efficiently communicating this information to all respective process groups.

Leadership and Operational Oversight:
  • Cross-Functional Leadership: Foster Guill Tool’s company values: technical rigor, exceptional product quality, and continuous improvement- by facilitating collaboration between multiple process groups, including production.    
  • Workflow Optimization: Support cost reduction initiatives and identify opportunities to improve throughput, efficiency, and product quality without jeopardizing the integrity of contractual deliverables and internal process compliance. 
  • Quality Support: Maintain accurate documentation and records, and support internal, 3rd party/ regulatory audits, and AS9100 quality assurance initiatives.

Qualifications:
Education:
  • A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Technology, Business Operations, or a related field. An MBA or advanced business training is a plus.
Experience:
  • Minimum 5-7 years in a manufacturing and government contracting environment. 
  • At least 2 years in a leadership role managing technical and/or sales functions. 
  • Proven experience in quoting, proposal preparation, and contract lifecycle management
 Desired Skills:
  • Strong understanding of technical drawings, tight-tolerance machining (±.0001), and manufacturing process routing.
  •  In-depth knowledge of government contract regulations (FAR/DFARS/ITAR/ NAVSEA) and the federal acquisition process
  • Proficiency with ERP/MRP systems (Epicor experience a plus), quoting software,  CRM platforms, and navigating customer & government agency portals.
  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and time and project management abilities.

ITAR Security Requirement: 
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen and capable of obtaining a Secret Security Clearance.

About Guill Tool & Engineering:
Established in 1962, we are a Level I/SUBSAFE defense contractor committed to providing precision machined components and assemblies at an economical cost to support the U.S. Navy Submarine Industrial Base and related defense industries   We are ITAR registered, AS9100 certified, and NIST SP800-171 compliant.

Guill Tool & Engineering is also recognized as a technology leader in the design and manufacture of plastic extrusion tooling worldwide.  We offer custom-designed extrusion heads in addition to replacement tip & die tooling for numerous applications, including medical, wire and cable, and industrial.

We maintain a technically capable workforce committed to the continued success of our customers by providing high-quality extrusion tooling and defense components.