ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense

Inventory Clerk I

Sacramento, CA

$21 - $23/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Defense Manufacturing Company

Controller

Troy, MI

Bill Watts is partnering with a growing defense contracting manufacturer who is looking to directly hiring a Controller! The Controller will lead all accounting and financial reporting activities for ...

New

Kratos Defense

CNC Programmer

Sacramento, CA

$42 - $58/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Kratos Defense

CNC Programmer

Sacramento, CA

$42 - $58/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Kratos Defense

Manufacturing Engineer III-V

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$63.20K - $81.40K/yr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Kratos Defense

Director, Program Management

$215K - $250K/yr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

Kratos Defense

Aircraft Assembler I-III

Sacramento, CA

$24 - $33/hr

As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsDefense Contractor Jobs

Defense Contractor information

See salary details

$9

$27

$47

How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in the United States is $27.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $32.45 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 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 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.
More about Defense Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Defense Contractor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor jobs? The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Contractor jobs are:
Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,990 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Sales Manager - Military & Defense, North America

BG MC US Holdings LLC

Maumee, OH

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

KALLER has an exciting and challenging career opportunity for a Sales Manager – Military & Defense, North America. Are you detailed oriented, self-motivated and looking to make a difference? This job is for you. The Sales Manager is responsible for expanding the company’s presence in the military and defense sector through strategic business development and key account management. This position will work directly with manufactures of heavy military vehicles and dealers including OEM’s, Tier 1 suppliers and government procurement entities.

Ideal candidate would reside in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, or Illinois.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Develop and execute a proactive commercial strategy focused on growth within U.S. and allied military and defense markets.
  • Identify and pursue new opportunities with defense OEMs, MROs, and system integrators, leveraging a strong understanding of DoD procurement, contracting, and supplier qualification processes.
  • Lead technical discussions and program reviews with military customers, providing viable engineering and commercial solutions for applications such as hatches, seats, access panels, and weapon system components.
  • Partner with engineering and program management to ensure compliance with AS9100, ITAR, and customer-specific quality standards.
  • Establish relationships with key defense primes and subcontractors to expand our footprint in the defense supply chain.
  • Consistently meet sales activity KPIs and annual revenue growth targets.
  • Maintain accurate and current customer records, program updates, and opportunity pipelines in Salesforce CRM.
  • Forecast and report on program status, bid opportunities, and market trends within the defense and aerospace sectors.
  • Represent the company at defense industry trade shows and government supplier events, following up on leads and building long-term partnerships.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure quotes, proposals, and contracts meet technical and regulatory requirements.
  • Negotiate contracts, pricing, and terms within established division policy standards and DoD compliance parameters.
  • Provide regular communication and reporting to management regarding program performance, pipeline health, and market intelligence.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum 5–7 years of experience in B2B sales or program management within military and defense manufacturing.
  • Direct experience selling or supporting defense and government contracts, with a strong understanding of procurement pathways, DFARS/FAR, and contracting processes.
  • Experience in technical sales or engineering solutions is strongly desired.
  • Prior military service or direct experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD), aerospace, or defense contractor programs will be strongly preferred.
  • Deep understanding of military acquisition processes, defense budget cycles, and supply chain structures.
  • Ability to interpret military specifications (MIL-SPEC), engineering drawings, and technical documentation.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills for interfacing with program offices, procurement officers, and technical personnel.
  • Demonstrated success developing relationships with DoD agencies, defense primes, and tiered subcontractors.
  • High energy level with a results-oriented, mission-driven mindset.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office and CRM platforms (preferably Salesforce).
  • Strong organizational and negotiation skills with attention to compliance, documentation, and follow-through.

Education & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or business, preferred.
  • Equivalent military experience or combination of education and industry experience will be considered.