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Defense Innovation Unit Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Henkel group

Key Account Manager Defense

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$120K - $160K/yr

... innovation, sustainability and collaboration. With our trusted brands like Persil ® , 'all ® ... This position is with our Adhesive Technologies business unit - where we empower our people to ...

SAIC

LVC Air Defense Facilitator

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

... organization, unit employment, capabilities/limitations, integration, and threat capabilities ... SAIC ® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation ...

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How much do defense innovation unit jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense innovation unit in California is $19.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at the Defense Innovation Unit, and why are they important?

To thrive at the Defense Innovation Unit, you need expertise in technology development, project management, and an understanding of defense and national security, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in innovation or the defense sector. Familiarity with emerging technologies, acquisition processes, and tools such as project management software and secure communication systems is crucial. Strong collaboration, adaptability, and effective communication skills help drive partnerships between government, industry, and academia. These abilities are essential for accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge solutions that address complex defense challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)?

Professionals at the Defense Innovation Unit often navigate the challenge of bridging the gap between fast-paced commercial technology development and the more structured processes of the Department of Defense. Adapting to the unique demands of both government and private sector stakeholders requires strong communication and project management skills. Additionally, team members regularly collaborate with startups, industry partners, and military end-users, making the ability to translate technical concepts into actionable solutions critical. Balancing innovation with compliance and security standards is another key aspect of the role.

What is the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)?

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is an organization within the U.S. Department of Defense that accelerates the adoption of commercial technology into the military. DIU works with innovative private sector companies to identify, prototype, and field advanced technological solutions that address national security challenges. By bridging the gap between the military and the commercial tech industry, DIU helps ensure the U.S. military maintains a technological edge. Their areas of focus include artificial intelligence, autonomy, cyber, human systems, and space technologies.
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What cities in California are hiring for Defense Innovation Unit jobs? Cities in California with the most Defense Innovation Unit job openings:
Defense Innovation Unit jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Innovation Unit job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,630 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Key Account Manager Defense

Henkel AG & Co. KGaA

Los Angeles, CA • Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About this Position AtHenkel, you'll be part of an organization that's shaping the future throughinnovation, sustainability and collaboration. With our trusted brands likePersil, 'all, Loctite, Snuggle, and Schwarzkopf and our cutting-edgetechnologies, you'll have countless opportunities to explore new paths andgrow.
Thisposition is with our Adhesive Technologies business unit - where we empower ourpeople to transform industries and provide our customers with a competitiveadvantage through adhesives, sealants and functional coatings.
Dare to learn new skills, advance in your career andmake an impact at Henkel. What youll do
  • The Key Account Manager, a remote position, is responsible for building and growing business relationships with high opportunity emerging defense and aerospace accounts
  • Implement new customer acquisition plans & develop customer-specific success metrics beyond revenue (e.g., innovation impact)
  • Demonstrate and communicate technical knowledge of aerospace-grade materials, their specifications and application, an understanding of quality and compliance requirements, and forecast management
  • Leverage understanding of emerging defense technologies (CCAs, UAS, autonomous systems, counter-UAS, hypersonics, advanced materials) to identify new customer materials opportunities
  • Serve as the primary point of contact between Henkel and Customer across departments (procurement, engineering, quality, supply chain, etc.)
  • Develop and build long-term strategic plan tailored to Customer's business goals and production plan e.g. Defense platforms
  • Identifies opportunities to expand the relationship through new product offerings, innovations, or process improvements
  • Internal champion of Customer needs within the Henkel cross-functional organization, ensuring alignment and responsiveness
  • Builds strong relationships with Customer stakeholders in supply chain, program, and engineering
  • Translates customer's strategy and priorities into a joint innovation roadmap
  • Facilitate executive-level meetings and Business Reviews to maintain alignment
  • Effectively manages escalations, delivery issues, or quality concerns with professionalism and urgency
  • On-Time Delivery & Quality Performance management through KPI tracking and ensuring performance meets Customer's needs
  • Oversees pricing agreements, long-term contracts (LTAs), and terms & condition negotiations
  • Uses analytics and forecasting tools to anticipate customer needs and add strategic value

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