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Defense Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Senior Counsel, Government

Camas, WA · On-site

$158K - $215K/yr

Draft, review, and negotiate complex government contracts, non-disclosure agreements, and other strategic agreements in support of the company's government defense contracting business * Provide ...

Karman Space & Defense

Metrology Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

As a federal contractor, Karman Space & Defense is committed to compliance with all federal employment eligibility requirements. We participate in E-Verify, a web-based system that allows enrolled ...

Actalent

Project Manager

Vancouver, WA

$115K - $130K/yr

Navy, Department of Defense, defense contractors, military sustainment programs, or aerospace (Ideally 10-15+ years demonstrated). * Proven experience managing Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) contracts.

Actalent

Project Manager

Vancouver, WA

$115K - $130K/yr

Navy, Department of Defense, defense contractors, military sustainment programs, or aerospace. * Proven experience managing Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee (CPFF) contracts. * Working knowledge of Federal ...

Karman Space & Defense

CNC Machinist II

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

ABOUT US Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical ... The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or ...

Karman Space & Defense

CNC Machinist III

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$40 - $50/hr

ABOUT US Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical ... The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or ...

New

Corning

Market Development Manager Federal

Oregon City, OR · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

Federal market, including Department of Defense (DoD), Federal Civilian agencies, and related integrator/contractor ecosystems. This role is responsible for advancing Corning's position in Federal ...

Karman Space& Defense

Deburrer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

... contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs. This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation's space programs for decades by delivering complete ...

Karman Space & Defense

CNC Machinist I

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

... contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs. This role is part of our Space and Launch business, which has contributed to the nation's space programs for decades by delivering complete ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor JobsDefense Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR

Defense Contractor information

See Portland, OR salary details

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How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Portland, OR is $29.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.45 and $34.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 for handling sensitive information. Gaining experience through internships or working for defense-related companies, and understanding government procurement processes, are also important steps in entering the field.
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Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,498 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Director/Senior Manager, Defense & Military Programs Business Development

Ascentec Engineering

Tualatin, OR • On-site, Remote

$130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Ascentec Engineering is seeking an experienced Director or Senior Manager of Business Development - Defense & Military Programs to lead the company's strategic growth initiatives within the U.S. defense and military markets. This individual will be responsible for identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities with prime contractors, government agencies, and defense-related customers.
The candidate must have an established network within the defense industry, a strong understanding of military procurement processes, and a proven track record of winning manufacturing programs involving precision-machined components, complex assemblies, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Experience supporting defense, naval weapons systems, munitions and missile systems, space, and satellite markets is highly desirable.
This role will serve as the key member of the commercial leadership team and help position Ascentec as a preferred manufacturing partner for defense and military applications.
This position is U.S. Based, preferably near key defense hubs. Anticipated travel is 30-50%. This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship or transfer of Visa sponsorship.
Requirements
Strategic Business Development:
  • Develop and execute a multi-year defense market growth strategy aligned with company objectives.
  • Identify, qualify, and pursue opportunities with:
  • Prime defense contractors
  • Tier 1 defense suppliers
  • Department of Defense organizations
  • Military research laboratories
  • Defense innovation organizations
  • Build a robust pipeline of new business opportunities and maintain accurate forecasts
  • Develop account penetration strategies for target customers

Customer Relationship Management:
  • Establish executive-level relationships within major defense organizations
  • Serve as the primary commercial contact for strategic defense accounts
  • Represent Ascentec at industry conferences, trade shows, defense forums, and customer meetings
  • Coordinate customer visits to U.S. and international manufacturing facilities

Opportunity Capture & Proposal Support:
  • Lead opportunity qualification, capture planning, and pursuit strategies
  • Coordinate internal teams to support RFQs, RFPs, and technical proposal submissions
  • Develop winning value propositions emphasizing:
  • Precision machining capabilities
  • Friction Stir Welding (FSW)
  • Complex CNC manufacturing
  • Supply chain resilience
  • Quality and regulatory compliance
  • Manage the sales process from prospecting through contract award.

Market Intelligence:
  • Monitor defense budgets, procurement trends, and emerging programs.
  • Identify opportunities related to:
  • Naval systems
  • Missiles and munitions
  • Space and launch systems
  • Unmanned systems
  • Military aircraft
  • Ground combat systems
  • Directed energy and advanced technologies
  • Analyze competitive positioning and recommend strategic investments.

Internal Leadership:
  • Collaborate with operations, engineering, quality, and executive leadership to align growth initiatives.
  • Provide voice-of-customer insights to guide investments and capability development.
  • Support strategic planning and annual revenue forecasting.
  • Assist in evaluating potential partnerships and teaming arrangements.

Required Qualifications:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Manufacturing, Aerospace, or related fields.
  • Engineering degree and MBA are preferred.

Experience:
Director Level:
  • 10+ years of business development, capture management, or sales leadership experience within defense, aerospace, or military markets.
  • Proven history of generating and winning significant defense manufacturing programs.
  • Existing network of relationships within qualified defense primes and procurement organizations.
  • Experience managing multi-million-dollar opportunity pipelines.

Senior Manager Level:
  • 7+ years of defense-focused business development experience.
  • Demonstrated success developing strategic accounts and securing new business.
  • Strong understanding of defense procurement and contracting processes.

Industry Knowledge:
Strong understanding of:
  • DoD acquisition processes
  • Prime contractor supply chains
  • ITAR and export compliance
  • AS9100 and aerospace quality systems
  • Precision machining and manufacturing operations
  • Government contracting environments

Preferred Experience:
Experience working with one or more of the following:
  • Lockheed Martin
  • Boeing Defense
  • Northrop Grumman
  • RTX (Raytheon)
  • General Dynamics
  • BAE Systems
  • L3Harris
  • Huntington Ingalls
  • Anduril Industries
  • Sierra Space
  • U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army, or Space Force programs

Experience selling:
  • Precision-machined and Friction-Stir-Welding components and solutions
  • Aerospace structures
  • High-reliability assemblies
  • Complex CNC manufacturing services

Compensation:
Senior Manager, Business Development - Defense & Military Applications:
  • Salary Starts at $130,000 per year and may be higher based on experience, skills, and qualifications
  • Annual Discretionary Commission, based on performance metrics: Commission earnings of 20%+ of base salary, with additional upside based on performance

Director, Business Development - Defense & Military Applications:
  • Salary Starts at $150,000 per year and may be higher based on experience, skills, and qualifications
  • Annual Discretionary Commission, based on performance metrics: Commission earnings of 35%+ of base salary, with additional upside based on performance

Benefits:
  • Dental and Medical w/vision coverage insurance plans offered
  • STD/LTD & Life insurance plans offered
  • FSA and DCA available
  • PTO and Holiday pay
  • Immediate 100% vesting Safe Harbor 401(k) retirement saving plan with matching contributions
  • Educational aid program available
  • Purchase discounts, membership discounts, and many other incentives

Applicant must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check prior to employment.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Ascentec Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Ascentec Engineering is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.?

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