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Defense Contractor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Subcontract Admin II

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$67K - $114K/yr

Prefer prior experience as a Purchasing Assistant or Buyer with relevant applications in a defense contractor environment * Experience using Oracle or an MRP/ERP system * Experience/Knowledge of ITAR ...

Federal Sales Director, FSI

Virginia, MN · On-site

$360 - $540/hr

Develop and maintain "C-level" relationships with the largest defense contractors (Primes) and strategic suppliers. * Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Federal Engineering, Legal, and ...

Develop and maintain "C-level" relationships with the largest defense contractors (Primes) and strategic suppliers. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Federal Engineering, Legal, and ...

Develop and maintain "C-level" relationships with the largest defense contractors (Primes) and strategic suppliers. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the Federal Engineering, Legal, and ...

Administrative Assistant I New Brighton, Minnesota Join PDS Defense, Inc. Pay Rate: $22.50 ... VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity ...

Ops Program Mgr IV

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$149K - $254K/yr

... a Defense Contracting environment - An exceptionally high level of analytical and team building ability to solve quality, cost, and resource-planning problems; prioritize production scheduling ...

Contract Admin Prin

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$101K - $172K/yr

BAE Systems, one of the world's leading defense contractors and a Fortune 500 Company, is looking to add a Principal Contract Administrator to their International Naval Guns Product Line to help ...

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Defense Contractor information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$27

$46

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Minnesota is $27.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $31.78 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Defense Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 16% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,796 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

CNC Machinist-Grantsburg, Wisconsin

McNally Industries

Rush City, MN

$20.25 - $27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

1 st , 2 nd , and Weekend Shifts Available
McNally Industries, a defense contractor located in Grantsburg WI, is looking for experienced CNC machinists for all shifts. Enjoy working in a clean, modern, climate-controlled work environment. 1 st and 2 nd shifts work a 4-day work week, Monday - Thursday. The weekend shift works Friday - Sunday, 36 hours, paid for 40. Plus, the 2 nd shift and Weekend Shift earn a 15% shift differential on top of their base pay.
Candidates must possess a positive company attitude and be dedicated to company success. They also must be able to:
  • Machine tight tolerance, precision parts according to specifications.
  • Perform advanced set-ups on mills and/or lathes
  • Operate multiple machines
  • Use standard inspection equipment for quality checks
  • Demonstrate working knowledge of ISO work instructions
  • Move material/finished components to and from workstation. Lifting requirement is 50 lbs.

The candidate must have good attention to detail, good communication, and accurate reporting skills. Two or more years' machining experience is preferred and an Associate's Degree in a machine tool field is a plus.
Receive paid time off after 90 days, plus paid holidays.
McNally Offers: A full benefit package is offered, including health, dental, life, vision, and accident insurance, as well as a 401K employer match of up to 4% of gross wages.