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Defense Contractor Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

YO AI Labs

Criminal Defense Attorney - Remote

Austin, TX · Remote

$140 - $400/hr

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 ...

Saronic Technologies

Contracts Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

$88K - $118K/yr

Minimum of 5+ years of contract management experience within a defense/federal contractor environment or U.S. Government (DoD experience strongly preferred). * Demonstrated working knowledge of ...

Phase2 Technology

ATL Security and IT Manager

Austin, TX · On-site

$140 - $225/hr

Experience supporting DoD, UARC, FFRDC, or defense contractor programs. * Working knowledge of NIST-based cybersecurity frameworks and accreditation processes. US Citizen. Applicant selected will be ...

RuneTech

Forward Deployed Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

We're not a traditional defense contractor. We're a small, fast-moving team that combines deep operational experience in and with the DoD with the software discipline of the best product companies ...

L3HHCM20

Field Service Technician C

Austin, TX · On-site

A Field Service technician (FSR) for a defense contractor specializing in high performance stabilized imaging generally has at least 5 years' experience as an electro-mechanical technician on ...

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Defense Contractor information

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How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Austin, TX is $27.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $32.16 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 Austin, TX?

The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Defense Contractor jobs in Austin, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Defense Contractor job openings:

Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,480 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Software Engineer (Embedded Systems)

Round Rock, TX

Kratos Defense
National Security and International Affairs • 1 - 5K employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Kratos Defenseexternal

$122K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

5-D Systems, a KRATOS Company, is a growing defense contractor headquartered in Round Rock, TX with over twenty-five years' experience providing systems and software engineering for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. With an ever-increasing government interest in unmanned aircraft and autonomous drone capability, we are fortunate to be experiencing a substantial backlog of projects. Currently, we are developing software for multiple unmanned, jet-powered aircraft programs that are still very early in their lifecycle.

5-D is seeking a highly motivated and dedicated individual for a software development position. The successful candidate can perform their duties as a member of a small team working in a collaborative setting. Potential tasking will be varied and may range from developing real-time software for avionics and other airborne, embedded systems to developing custom system-level test software for laboratory and flight-line environments. Candidates must have experience with developing embedded software using C++ and interfacing software with external hardware interfaces and peripherals.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

  • Developing software for new and existing systems for aircraft and aircraft test systems
  • Integrating and testing software on aircraft and in virtual high-fidelity simulation environments and supporting flight test activities
  • Developing design documentation for internal and external use
  • Working in adherence to 5-D Systems software development process
  • Developing software test plans and procedures to demonstrate compliance with system requirements
  • Participating in planning, designing, testing, and deployment of moderately complex, engineered systems and software to ensure conformance with functional specifications and customer requirements
  • Peer reviewing fellow team members' work
  • Supporting trade studies and performing design research and explorations
  • Ability to travel to support job duties (<25%)

Required:

  • A bachelor's or master's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, or other engineering degree with demonstrable experience in software development
  • Five years or more of relevant experience developing software for embedded systems
  • Proficient in developing software using object-oriented C++
  • A U.S. DoD Secret Clearance or higher (or the ability to obtain such a clearance)
  • Self-directed, sharp analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, and can work effectively in a dynamic environment
  • Results-oriented, sense of ownership, urgency, and drive

Preferred: 

  • Experience designing and implementing feedback control systems
  • Experience working within the aerospace and defense industry
  • Experience with safety-critical/mission-critical development
  • Application development for Linux-based embedded environments
  • Experience with software development under DO-178C processes
  • Modeling and simulation of systems using Simulink
  • Test and measurement systems design
  • Systems engineering experience

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