1

Defense Contractor Jobsexternal in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Security Operations Manager

California, MO ยท On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Experience serving as an FSO within a cleared defense contractor. * Strong knowledge of: * NISPOM * DCSA * DISS * NBIS * Classified document control * Personnel security * Experience maintaining a ...

New

Logistician Senior

California, MO ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Overview Brandes Associates, Inc., a defense contractor with over 35 years of continuous performance, seeks a Senior Logistician/Logistics Engineer with 10+ years of experience to support the ...

Senior System Administrator

California, MO ยท On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Overview We are seeking an experienced System Administrator to support missionโ€‘critical IT infrastructure within a defense contracting environment. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical ...

Financial Manager

California, MO ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Overview BAI, a defense contractor, is seeking a Financial Manager with 3+ years of experience to provide non-personal technical, analytical, and project management support, at Naval Base Ventura ...

Specialist

California, MO ยท On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Overview Brandes Associates, Inc. (BAI), a defense contractor, is seeking a Specialist with 7+ years of experience for our expanding workforce supporting current and evolving technical engineering ...

Associate Defense Attorney

Saint Louis, MO ยท On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

... defense or to initiate legal action on behalf of client. Attends and assists at trials. Researches ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Defense Contractor information

See Missouri salary details

$8

$26

$44

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Missouri is $26.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $30.43 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 Missouri?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Defense Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,394 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Security Operations Manager

Socket.dev

California, MO โ€ข On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Quantum-Systems Inc is a global leader in aerial intelligence and autonomous, AI-powered aerial robotics. We design, develop, manufacture and deliver VTOL Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and an ecosystem of related products and services. Our business directly addresses the Defense and Security markets in North America, Asia Pacific and Latin America. We currently have an opening for a Security Operations Manager. This position reports to the Chief of Staff.

Quantum Systems Inc. is seeking an experienced and highly organized Security Operations Manager to lead and administer the company's security program. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with U.S. government security requirements, protecting company personnel, facilities, information, and assets, and supporting the organization's continued growth within the U.S. defense industry.

The Security Operations Manager will serve as the company's appointed Facility Security Officer (FSO), oversee personnel and physical security programs, maintain compliance with the National Industrial Security Program (NISPOM), and partner closely with Engineering, IT, HR, Operations, Export Compliance, and executive leadership.

This position is ideal for an experienced security professional who thrives in a fast-paced, rapidly growing defense technology environment.

Essential Responsibilities

Industrial Security:

  • Serve as the appointed Facility Security Officer (FSO).
  • Maintain compliance with the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM).
  • Manage the company's relationship with the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).
  • Maintain the company's Facility Clearance (FCL).
  • Administer personnel security clearances through DISS/NBIS.
  • Coordinate classified visit requests and visitor control.
  • Manage classified document accountability, storage, destruction, and transmission.
  • Conduct self-inspections and prepare for DCSA assessments.
Corporate Security
  • Develop, implement, and continuously improve Quantum Systems Inc' corporate security policies and procedures.
  • Lead physical security initiatives across all company facilities.
  • Oversee access control systems, badging, CCTV, alarm systems, and key management.
  • Conduct facility risk assessments and recommend security improvements.
  • Coordinate incident response and investigations.
  • Maintain emergency action plans and business continuity procedures.
Personnel Security
  • Manage onboarding and offboarding security processes.
  • Conduct security briefings, debriefings, and annual refresher training.
  • Administer Insider Threat awareness programs.
  • Coordinate annual security education and awareness initiatives.
  • Support executive leadership on security-related matters.
Compliance & Governance
  • Ensure compliance with:
    • NISPOM (32 CFR Part 117)
    • DCSA requirements
    • ITAR
    • EAR
    • CUI handling requirements
    • Customer-specific security requirements
  • Maintain all required security documentation and records.
  • Develop metrics and reporting for executive leadership.
  • Support customer security audits.
Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with:

  • Human Resources
  • Information Technology
  • Engineering
  • Facilities
  • Operations
  • Export Compliance
  • Executive Leadership
  • Government customers to ensure security is integrated into all business operations.
Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years of industrial security experience.
  • Experience serving as an FSO within a cleared defense contractor.
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • NISPOM
    • DCSA
    • DISS
    • NBIS
    • Classified document control
    • Personnel security
  • Experience maintaining a Facility Clearance.
  • Experience managing classified programs.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Preferred:

  • Experience in aerospace or defense manufacturing.
  • Knowledge of ITAR and EAR.
  • Experience with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
  • Insider Threat Program management experience.
  • COMSEC experience.
  • Experience developing Incโ€™s corporate security programs from the ground up.
  • CPP, ISPยฎ, or Industrial Security Professional certification.
  • Active U.S. Secret Clearance (or ability to obtain one).
Key Competencies:
  • Leadership
  • Integrity
  • Sound judgment
  • Confidentiality
  • Attention to detail
  • Risk assessment
  • Project management
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Policy development
  • Process improvement
#J-18808-Ljbffr