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Defense Contractor Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Defense Attorney

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site +1

$120K - $220K/yr

... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply ... defense #premises-liability #general-liability #civil-litigation #third-party #insurance-law ...

Be Seen First

Collaborate with defense customers, government agencies, and prime contractors. * Ensure engineering designs and manufacturing processes meet defense industry quality and documentation standards.

Veteran-friendly

Electronic Assembler

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security. At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team ...

Electronic Assembler

Fort Walton Beach, FL

$14.25 - $18/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security. At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team ...

Electronic Assembler

Fort Walton Beach, FL

$14.25 - $18/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security. At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team ...

Electronic Assembler

Okaloosa Island, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security. At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team ...

Quality Technician

Fort Walton Beach, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security. At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team ...

Contractor Location: Remote (United States Only) Job Overview We are seeking experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys to contribute their legal expertise to an innovative project focused on advancing ...

Insurance Defense Attorney

Orlando, FL · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

Stable and well known Insurance Defense firm seeking Orlando attorneys This Jobot Job is hosted by ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

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Defense Contractor information

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How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Florida is $20.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a defense contractor do?

A Defense Contractor is a private company or individual that provides products or services to a nation's military. These can include weapons, vehicles, technology, logistics, and consulting services. They work closely with government agencies to support defense and national security efforts. Contractors must comply with strict regulations and often require security clearances.

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

To thrive as a Defense Contractor, you need expertise in project management, engineering or technical disciplines, and a thorough understanding of government procurement processes, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with defense standards, specialized software tools (like CAD or project management suites), and compliance with regulations such as ITAR or DFARS is crucial. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you navigate complex projects and collaborate with multiple stakeholders. These abilities are essential for delivering mission-critical solutions while adhering to strict security and contractual requirements.

What are some typical challenges faced by defense contractors, and how can they be managed?

Defense Contractors often navigate strict regulatory requirements, complex project specifications, and tight deadlines, all while maintaining high standards for security and quality. Adaptability and proactive communication are essential to successfully manage frequent changes in project scope or government priorities. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including military personnel and subcontractors, is also a key aspect of the job. Building strong organizational and problem-solving skills can help you meet these challenges and contribute to the success of mission-oriented projects.

How do you become a defense contractor?

To become a defense contractor, individuals typically need a strong background in engineering, science, or technology, along with relevant security clearances. Gaining experience through military service, government agencies, or defense-related industries, and understanding government contracting processes, are also important steps.

How much do defense contractors get paid?

Defense contractors' salaries vary based on experience, role, and location, but entry-level positions typically start around $60,000 to $80,000 annually. Experienced professionals with specialized skills or security clearances can earn over $100,000 per year, with some senior roles exceeding $150,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay, especially for those working on complex projects or in high-security environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Defense Contractor jobs in Florida?

For Defense Contractor jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Defense Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,335 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Manager of Hardware Engineering

Kratos Defense

Fort Walton Beach, FL

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on uncrewed systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Micro Systems Inc. (MSI), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, uncrewed aerial systems and self-driving trucks. As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing systems to support National Security.

At MSI, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of autonomous technology within the defense and commercial industry today!

The Mission As the Manager of Hardware Engineering, you will lead the cross-functional development of next-generation electronic systems for unmanned airborne platforms. You will bridge the gap between high-level strategy and technical execution, overseeing the lifecycle of autonomous vehicle electronic technologies from initial concept through to field deployment and DoD certification.

Key Responsibilities

  • Technical Leadership: Lead and mentor a multi-disciplinary team of Hardware, RF, Mechanical, and PWB engineers in a high-stakes, fast-paced environment.
  • Strategic Oversight: Manage the full engineering lifecycle (R&D, Design, V&V) for electronic systems, ensuring alignment with program milestones and budgetary constraints.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as the primary technical liaison between executive leadership, internal engineering teams, and DoD stakeholders.
  • Innovation & Architecture: Drive the architecture and implementation of complex RF datalinks, electronic avionics, FPGAs, and embedded processor architectures.
  • Growth & Capture: Lead technical bids and proposals (SOW/ROM/RFP) and foster a culture of continuous professional development for engineering staff.

Core Qualifications

  • Experience: 8+ years in complex hardware/systems development, with 5+ years in a formal technical leadership or management role.
  • Domain Expertise: Proven track record in airborne avionics, I/O systems, RF design, and Embedded Systems within the UAV or autonomous vehicle space.
  • Regulatory & Compliance: Understanding of DoD standards, including MIL-STD-461 (EMI) and MIL-STD-810 (Environmental) testing protocols.
  • Education: BS in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics or related technical field.
  • Communication: Exceptional ability to translate complex technical roadblocks into actionable business strategy for non-technical stakeholders.

The Tech Environment

  • Systems: Unmanned airborne platforms - avionics, datalinks, C2, and ancillary ground support equipment.
  • Electronics: Digital/Analog design, High-speed FPGA (Xilinx), and RF architectures.
  • Methodologies: Waterfall Design Methodology, formal design reviews (PDR/CDR), and modern EDA/Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.

THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.

A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY.   THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES

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