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Defense Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

KBR

O&M Site Lead (Contingency)

Portland, OR · On-site

The business unit supports customers across the Department of Defense, federal civilian agencies ... The O&M Site Lead works closely with site leadership, contractors, and stakeholders to optimize ...

KBR, Inc.

O&M Site Lead (Contingency)

Portland, OR · On-site

The business unit supports customers across the Department of Defense, federal civilian agencies ... The O&M Site Lead works closely with site leadership, contractors, and stakeholders to optimize ...

KBR

O&M Site Lead (Contingency)

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

The business unit supports customers across the Department of Defense, federal civilian agencies ... The O&M Site Lead works closely with site leadership, contractors, and stakeholders to optimize ...

Omega Morgan

Inside Sales Coordinator

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

... aresospace & defense and other capital-intensive sectors. * Use AI-enabled tools, construction ... Contractor and Stakeholder Identification * Research and document project teams for active and ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor JobsDefense Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR

Defense Contractor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$9

$29

$50

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 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 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 popular job titles related to Defense Contractor jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Defense Contractor job openings:

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 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,498 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Associate Quality Assurance Engineer

Impact ES-Vancouver

Vancouver, WA • On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Associate Quality Assurance Engineer
Department: Quality
Reports to: Quality Assurance Manager
Salary Range: $30-$33
Principal Accountabilities:
  • Assign, monitor, and verify Corrective, Preventative, Supplier, Complaint, and Audit follow-up Actions (referred to as Actions).
  • Participate in cross-functional teams to develop potential actions and implement improvements.
  • Assist cross-functional teams in identifying root causes of corrective actions using root cause analysis tools.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the execution of corrective action activities.
  • Verify the effectiveness of action implementations.
  • Compile and analyze data regarding Corrective, Preventive, Supplier, Complaint, and Audit Follow-up Actions to identify systemic issues and monitor QMS goals and improvement opportunities.
  • Work with buyers and suppliers to address quality and corrective action concerns.
  • Engage with customers to resolve quality and corrective action matters.
  • Serve as the primary owner of PFMEA (Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
  • Conduct Layered Process Audits (LPA) at Level 1 and Level 3
  • Perform Non-quality Functions audits

Production Support:
  • Assist teams in determining the root cause of production non-conformances and defects.
  • Track, evaluate, and analyze production non-conformance and defect trends.
  • Support Quality Inspectors in ensuring process and product compliance with requirements.

Quality Management:
  • Assist the Quality Assurance Manager in enhancing the Quality Management System (QMS).
  • Participate in QMS audits as needed.
  • Provide support to the Quality Assurance Specialist and Quality Lead.

Return Materials:
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams and incoming inspection to evaluate customer returns (RMA's) and assembly defect evaluations to determine root causes.
  • Maintain the ESD program, conduct system audits, and monitor environmental conditions in relation to J-STD humidity and temperature standards.

General Responsibilities:
  • Serve as a knowledgeable resource, conducting research and due diligence to provide accurate answers and effectively communicating findings with the team.
  • Continuously seek process improvement opportunities.
  • Act as a role model by adhering to and reinforcing Safety, ESD, ITAR, and QMS protocols.
  • Actively participate in Lean initiatives, embracing change and providing feedback to ensure stability and sustainability.
  • Exhibit strong leadership, mentorship, and coaching abilities.
  • Maintain 5S standards and consistently look for process enhancements.
  • Pursue continuous reduction of waste through efficiency improvements.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • 6 mon. -1 year of experience in root cause analysis, process engineering, manufacturing, or quality engineering.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze and resolve quality issues.
  • Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis.
  • Strong verbal and written interpersonal skills to effectively communicate across teams.
  • Experience with PFMEA development, updates, and cross-functional reviews
  • Experience in PCBA manufacturing and quality systems
  • Experience with CAPA systems and quality metrics
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • Root cause analysis methodologies (5 Why, 8D, etc.)
    • IPC standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-033)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Experienced in leading or supporting internal audits, including layered process audits (LPA), and participation in external audits (e.g., ISO 13485).

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Engineering (Electronics, Mechanical, Industrial) or a related field.
  • Some experience with quality tools, including Control Plans, DOE (Design of Experiments), PPAP, and NADCAP (National Aerospace and Defense Contractors Accreditation Program).

Preferred Competencies:
  • Strong knowledge of quality documentation and compliance requirements to meet division and customer quality expectations.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for continuous process improvements.

*Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship*
As part of our commitment to a safe and trustworthy workplace, Impact ES Vancouver conducts background checks on all final candidates. These checks may include verification of employment history, education, criminal records, and other relevant information, depending on the position.
All background checks will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
A candidate's background will not be used as the sole basis for disqualification unless it is determined to be directly related to the responsibilities of the position.

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