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Defense Contractor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

VTL Machinist- 2nd Shift

Brea, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will have a background experience in projects in the Government or Defense Contracting Industry. Required Duties and Responsibilities: * Primary Role will be working with ...

Senior Aerospace Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will have a background experience in projects in the Government or Defense Contracting Industry. Required Duties and Responsibilities: * Primary Role will be maintaining ...

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The successful candidate will have a background experience in projects in the Government or Defense Contracting Industry. Required Duties and Responsibilities: * Primary Role will be working with ...

CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

Corona, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

CNC Machinist - 2nd Shift

Corona, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... 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 ...

Defense Litigation Attorney (Fully Remote!)

Orange, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Active California Bar license in good standing * 1 to 3+ years of litigation defense experience ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Contracts Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$130 - $170/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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

New

Familiarity with the military/defense contracting environment. * Proficiency in DOORS. * AGILE development experience. * Integration and Test experience utilizing oscilloscopes, multimeters, and data ...

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 ...

Program Manager

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Defense Contractor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

$29

$49

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 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 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 Riverside, CA?

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

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Defense Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,499 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Software Engineer I - Embedded - Defense Systems Division

PARKER HANNIFIN CORP

Irvine, CA • On-site

$71 - $117/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Parker Hannifin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

Position Summary

The Defense Systems Division is part of the Parker Aerospace Group, located in Irvine, California. Our products are used across military and commercial platforms globally. We specialize in cutting edge thermal management systems and components including fans, pumps and compressors, ammunition handling systems, weapon scoring systems, dynamic pressure sensors, piezoelectric accelerometers, towed targets, reeling machines, and associated telemetry.

For over fifty years, we have been a leader in defense products, contributing to the operational success of some of the most advanced military platforms worldwide.

As a member of our team, you are instrumental in fulfilling our mission: “Enabling Engineering Breakthroughs that Lead to a Better Tomorrow.” Pursuing a career at Parker presents unlimited opportunities for both professional and personal development. Working with some of the most brilliant minds in the industry, your contributions will be pivotal in developing innovative technologies and products, significantly contributing to Parker’s goal of addressing the world’s most pressing engineering challenges. At Parker, our team members belong, matter and make a difference.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Develop software functional and interface requirements and design.
  • Translate functional and interface design specifications into source code.
  • Implement embedded application and device driver software.
  • Develop application simulators to support test and integration.
  • Support in-house integration and test including board bring up.
  • Support product validation, field testing, and deployment as required.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Education: Bachelor's degree (BSCS/BSEE) with 1-2 years related experience.
  • Experience with development in C/C++ language.
  • Experience with various embedded system architectures and hardware-software interfaces.
  • Experience with peripheral hardware interfaces (UART, USB, Ethernet, I2C, SPI, RS232, RS422, etc.) and protocols such as CAN, TCP/IP, UDP, etc.
  • Experience with electronics test and measurement equipment (oscilloscope, logic analyzer, digital multi-meter, etc.).
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Attention to detail and ability to understand complex software designs.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
Pay, Benefits, Work Schedule Competitive Compensation
  • Pay Range: $70890 to $117300 annually
  • Participation in Annual Incentive Program
Benefit & Retirement Plans

Parker offers competitive benefit programs, including:

  • Comprehensive coverage for medical, prescription drugs, dental, vision, voluntary optional life, accident insurance, hospital indemnity insurance and critical illness insurance with competitive premium cost.
  • 401(k) Plan with company matching contributions at 100% of the first 5% of pay.
  • Company provided defined-contribution retirement plan with annual contribution equal to 3% of pay.
  • Career development and tuition reimbursement.
  • Other benefits including paid parental leave, short and long-term disability programs, adoption assistance, a Care.com membership and financial planning assistance are provided at no cost to you.
  • Supplemental benefit programs including identity protection, legal protection, and pet wellness are available at competitive rates.
  • Paid Time Off and Company-Paid Holidays.
Equal Employment Opportunity

Parker is an Equal Opportunity and Aff… Parker is an Equal Opportunity and Aff… Parker is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Parker is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job related reasons regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. This position is subject to meeting export compliance eligibility requirements.

(“Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran / VEVRAA Federal Contractor”)

If you would like more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please go to Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov) and Genetic Information Discrimination

Drug Tests Drug-Free Workplace

In accordance with Parker’s policies and applicable state laws, Parker provides for a drug-free workplace. Therefore, all applicants seeking employment with Parker will be subject to drug testing as a condition of employment.

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