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Defense Contractor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Karman Space & Defense

Fabrication Welder

Brea, CA · On-site

$23 - $33/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

Deburr Technician

Brea, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $20/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

Brea, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

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

Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc.

Engine Boss

Riverside, CA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

About Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc. Wildfire Defense Systems, Inc. ("WDS") is a Qualified ... contracted by an insurance company with a mission to mitigate impacts on insured structures ...

Terran Orbital Corporation

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA

$95K - $127K/yr

Contracting Certification - such as NCMA CPCM or Defense Acquisition University (DAU) DAWIA Level III in Contracting. * Experience with US export regulations is desired Your actual level and base ...

Terran Orbital Corporation

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$95K - $127K/yr

Contracting Certification - such as NCMA CPCM or Defense Acquisition University (DAU) DAWIA Level III in Contracting. * Experience with US export regulations is desired Your actual level and base ...

Hornet Acquisition Co LLC

Program Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

This role requires direct interaction with major defense OEMs (domestic and international) and prime contractors, ensuring on-time delivery, cost control, and full compliance with contractual and ...

Karman Space & Defense

CNC Machinist

Corona, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

This position operates in a warehouse/shop/manufacturing environment.  As a federal contractor, Karman Space & Defense is committed to compliance with all federal employment eligibility ...

Karman Space & Defense

CNC Machinist

Corona, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

This position operates in a warehouse/shop/manufacturing environment.  As a federal contractor, Karman Space & Defense is committed to compliance with all federal employment eligibility ...

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All JobsDefense Contractor JobsDefense Contractor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Defense Contractor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$29

$49

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in Riverside, CA is $29.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $33.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Contractor position, and why are they important?

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.

What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Defense Contractor job openings:
Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,499 per year, or $29.1 per hour.
Fabrication Welder

Fabrication Welder

Karman Space & Defense

Brea, CA • On-site

$23 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Karman Space & Defense rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SUMMARY


Experienced TIG/MIG welder proficient in reading drawings with technical weld symbols and GD&T, knowledge metal cutting processes and equipment, skilled on assembling components using fit-up and tack welding and fabrication techniques. This role is essential in building high-quality metal structures, parts, and assemblies to support our production needs. candidate must have experience welding aluminum, stainless steel, inconels and carbon steel.

ABOUT US

Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical systems on spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, hypersonics, and integrated defense systems. We believe that solving the industry’s most complex and mission-critical challenges requires relentless determination and a willingness to push the boundaries of possibility. Karman Space & Defense brings to bear unparalleled production capabilities, unmatched engineering expertise, and unflinching analysis to render the impossible, possible.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement*

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and welding symbols
  • Measure, cut, and assemble metal components using various tools and equipment (e.g., saws, grinders, plasma cutters and oxy/acetylene torches)
  • Perform MIG and (or) TIG welding on steel, aluminum, stainless, inconel and titanium materials
  • Fabricate parts or structures according to design specifications and tolerances
  • Operate machinery such as shears, press brakes, overhead cranes, forklift and handheld tools
  • Inspect welded surfaces and structures for flaws and correct defects as needed
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment
  • Follow safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • Collaborate with other team members to meet project deadlines and quality standards

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

  • Trade school or technical certification preferred but not required
  • Proven experience as a welder/fabricator (5+ years)
  • Proficient in MIG and TIG welding techniques
  • Ability to read and interpret fabrication drawings and blueprints
  • Application of GD&T
  • Strong attention to detail and quality control
  • Knowledge of materials (mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium,inconel)
  • Familiarity with safety procedures and regulations in a fabrication environment

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform repetitive tasks.  
  • This is a physical role.
  • Stand fora long period

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This position operates in a warehouse/shop/manufacturing environment.  

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

  • No travel required for this position.


ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Karman is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform servicemember status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law. Our management is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy with respect to hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, recruitment advertising, pay, and other forms of compensation, training, and general treatment during employment.