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Defense Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Contract Specialist

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Prepare and manage terms and conditions for Department of Defense Research & Development (FAR Part 35) contracts and Other Transactions. * Assist in the negotiation and finalization of contracts ...

DIVERS ALERT NETWORK - SkillBridge Program SkillBridge is a Defense Department (DOD) program ... As the leader in civilian dive safety research, DAN employs and collaborates with dive science ...

Work closely with our management team to act as the first line of defense to help detect and investigate trends. * Understand, prioritize, and escalate the comments of our customers and requests for ...

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Defense Research Assistant information

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$11

$20

$33

How much do defense research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense research assistant in the United States is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense research assistant?

Defense Research Assistants are professionals who support research projects related to national defense, security, and military technology. They assist senior researchers by collecting and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, and preparing reports or presentations. Their work may involve topics like cybersecurity, weapons systems, military strategy, or defense policy. These assistants often work in government agencies, defense contractors, or academic institutions and play a vital role in advancing defense-related knowledge and innovations.

What does a defense research assistant do?

Defense Research Assistants frequently support senior researchers by gathering and analyzing data, conducting literature reviews, preparing reports, and assisting with the design and execution of experiments. They often use specialized software for data analysis and may help organize and document research findings. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams, strict adherence to security protocols, and regular communication with project leads are also key parts of the daily workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a defense research assistant?

To excel as a Defense Research Assistant, you need a solid background in scientific research, data analysis, and often a relevant degree such as in engineering, physics, or political science. Familiarity with analytical software, secure data management systems, and sometimes security clearance or certifications are typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and clear written and verbal communication distinguish top candidates in this role. These skills are essential for producing accurate research, maintaining security standards, and effectively supporting defense projects.

What cities are hiring for Defense Research Assistant jobs?

Cities with the most Defense Research Assistant job openings:

What states have the most Defense Research Assistant jobs?

States with the most job openings for Defense Research Assistant jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Defense Research Assistant jobs?

For Defense Research Assistant jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Subject Matter Expert Defense R&D with Security Clearance

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Engineering & Analysis, and Training. Responsibilities AMERICAN SYSTEMS is recruiting for multiple SMEs in R&D fields including communications technologies, microelectronics, RF engineering, and cryptography. Working on the Department of War critical technology areas offers a dynamic, fast-paced environment at the forefront of advancing national defense capabilities in areas such as Quantum and Battlefield Information Dominance, Applied AI, Scaled Hypersonics, and more. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the Department's most critical modernization efforts. This project requires a high level of professionalism and a commitment to shaping the future of national security capabilities. As a Subject Matter Expert for Defense R&D you will have the opportunity to do the following: * Support the office leadership as a subject matter expert in your technology domain. * Advise senior DoW leadership on strategic direction, technology modernization priorities, and emerging capability gaps relevant to the portfolio. * Develop technology roadmaps, strategic assessments, presentations, and executive-level products to support modernization initiatives and investment planning. * Coordinate and engage with the RDT&E community including government laboratories, industry, academia, FFRDCs, UARCs, and international partners. * Analyze and track technical programs across the Department; assist in technical evaluations, requirements development, and transition planning. * Prepare briefings, reports, white papers, and other business and technical products in support of senior leadership decision-making. Qualifications * 12 years of experience in the Scientific, Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation sector for Industry, Academia, or Government relevant to the technical focus of the applicable office. * MS in a relevant hard science or engineering discipline (e.g., Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science). * A higher degree may be substituted for years of experience * Demonstrated experience supporting the DoW RDT&E community and working with senior technical and acquisition stakeholders. * Expertise in one or more of the following technology domains: communications, microelectronics, RF engineering, cryptography, space technology, cyberspace operations, quantum computing, artificial intelligence, directed energy, battlespace awareness, electronic warfare * Must have a current and active TS clearance with SCI eligibility * U.S. Citizenship Required for the purposes of obtaining/holding a U.S. security clearance. Pay Transparency Statement AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $160,000.00/Yr. - USD $220,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance. EEO Statement EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status