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Department Of Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Makwa Global LLC

Director, Defense Growth

Mclean, VA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Makwa Global is seeking a Director of Defense Growth to lead strategic growth across the Department ... Army Contracting Command * Department of State Diplomatic Security * Other National Security ...

ROUSH

Director of Defense Engineering

Warren, MI · On-site

Master's degree in engineering or MBA. * Experience working with the US Department of Defense * Design and Contract specifications Our full-time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life ...

University of Dayton

Senior Contracts Manager

Dayton, OH · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Two years of experience working for a Defense Contractor in support of Department of Defense programs. * Sound knowledge of the federal acquisition process, government contracting principles, the bid ...

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Department Of Defense Contractor information

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$66.5K

$102.7K

$155K

How much do department of defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for department of defense contractor in the United States is $102,706.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $135,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Department of Defense contractor?

Department of Defense (DoD) Contractors are private companies or individuals hired by the U.S. Department of Defense to provide goods, services, or technical expertise in support of military operations and national security objectives. These contractors can work in diverse fields such as engineering, cybersecurity, logistics, construction, and consulting. They play a critical role in supplementing the military's capabilities and often work alongside government employees. DoD Contractors must comply with strict regulations, security requirements, and ethical standards to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of their work.

What are some common challenges faced by Department of Defense contractors in their daily work?

Department of Defense contractors often navigate complex regulatory requirements and strict security protocols, which can be challenging for both new and experienced professionals. Adapting to evolving project scopes, maintaining compliance with federal acquisition regulations, and ensuring timely communication with government counterparts are typical aspects of the role. Contractors also frequently work in multidisciplinary teams, balancing the priorities of both their employer and the DoD client, which requires strong collaboration and adaptability skills. Staying current with industry certifications and security clearances is also crucial to maintain eligibility for ongoing and future projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Department of Defense contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Department of Defense Contractor, you typically need a relevant educational background, security clearance, and specialized expertise in areas such as engineering, cybersecurity, logistics, or project management. Familiarity with government contracting processes, federal acquisition regulations (FAR), and tools like DoD procurement systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills help navigate complex requirements and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills and qualities ensure compliance, effective project execution, and mission success in a highly regulated and security-focused environment.

What is the difference between Department Of Defense Contractor vs Military Technician?

AspectDepartment Of Defense ContractorMilitary Technician
CredentialsSecurity clearances, specialized certificationsMilitary experience, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentContractor sites, government facilitiesMilitary bases, government installations
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, defense industryMilitary branches, government agencies

Department Of Defense Contractors work for private firms providing services and products to the military, often requiring security clearances. Military Technicians are military personnel with technical roles on bases, combining military service with technical duties. While both roles support defense operations, contractors are civilians working externally, whereas technicians are active military members or civilian employees within the military system.

How do I become a Department of Defense contractor?

To become a Department of Defense contractor, individuals or companies must register with the System for Award Management (SAM), obtain necessary security clearances if required, and meet specific contract requirements such as relevant experience, certifications, and compliance with federal regulations. Successful contractors often participate in bidding processes through the Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) website and may need to demonstrate financial stability and technical capability.

How much does a Department of Defense contractor make?

Department of Defense contractors' salaries vary based on role, experience, and security clearance, but they typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually. Higher-level positions or specialized skills, such as cybersecurity or engineering, can lead to salaries exceeding $150,000. Compensation often includes benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, and some roles may require working on-site at military or government facilities.
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Cities with the most Department Of Defense Contractor job openings:

What states have the most Department Of Defense Contractor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Department Of Defense Contractor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Department Of Defense Contractor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Department Of Defense Contractor jobs are:

Department Of Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Department Of Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,706 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Senior Training Specialist / Instructor - Defense Industry

Ludus Tactical International

Fayetteville, NC • On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and maintain comprehensive training programs, curricula, lesson plans, and instructional materials.

  • Deliver technical and operational training to military personnel, defense contractors, technical staff, and other professional audiences.

  • Conduct classroom, hands-on, field-based, simulation, and scenario-based training.

Job description

Benefits
  • Competitive salary
  • Performance-based incentives
  • Professional development and certification opportunities
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • Supportive, mission-focused work environment
Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Training Specialist / Instructor to develop, deliver, and improve training programs supporting defense, military, and technical personnel. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in defense or aerospace training, instructional design, technical instruction, and operational procedures.

This position will be responsible for creating engaging training programs, delivering classroom and field-based instruction, evaluating learner performance, and ensuring training programs meet applicable defense, safety, quality, and compliance standards.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain comprehensive training programs, curricula, lesson plans, and instructional materials.
  • Deliver technical and operational training to military personnel, defense contractors, technical staff, and other professional audiences.
  • Conduct classroom, hands-on, field-based, simulation, and scenario-based training.
  • Use e-learning, Learning Management Systems (LMS), simulation technology, and other modern training tools.
  • Conduct training needs assessments and gap analyses to identify knowledge and performance requirements.
  • Customize training programs based on operational objectives, learner needs, and organizational requirements.
  • Develop and administer knowledge checks, skills assessments, and other methods for measuring training effectiveness.
  • Analyze learner performance, training metrics, and feedback to continuously improve training programs.
  • Maintain accurate training records, course documentation, certifications, and compliance materials.
  • Ensure training programs align with applicable Department of Defense (DoD), defense industry, regulatory, and organizational standards.
  • Collaborate with subject-matter experts, operations teams, technical personnel, and leadership to develop effective training solutions.
  • Mentor and support junior instructors and contribute to the development of instructional strategies.
  • Stay current on defense technologies, military procedures, policies, regulations, and instructional best practices.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, readiness, and operational performance.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Instructional Design, Defense Studies, Engineering, or a related field.
  • 7-10+ years of experience in training, instructional design, technical instruction, or subject-matter expertise within the defense or aerospace industry.
  • Proven experience developing and delivering technical and operational training.
  • Experience delivering training in classroom, field, laboratory, or hands-on environments.
  • Strong knowledge of defense systems, military operations, operational procedures, and applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Experience developing curricula, lesson plans, training materials, and assessments.
  • Strong presentation, facilitation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to translate complex technical and operational information into clear, practical instruction.
  • Experience with LMS platforms, e-learning tools, simulation software, or other training technologies.
  • Strong analytical, organizational, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in high-stakes, fast-paced, and changing environments.
  • Ability to obtain a security clearance preferred; active security clearance is a plus.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in Education, Instructional Design, Engineering, Defense Studies, or a related field.
  • Experience supporting DoD, military, aerospace, or defense contractor training programs.
  • Knowledge of applicable DoD and NATO standards and procedures.
  • Experience with simulation-based, scenario-based, or competency-based training.
  • Experience mentoring instructors or leading training initiatives.
  • Professional certifications in instructional design, training, adult learning, or a related discipline.
Key Skills
  • Instructional Design
  • Curriculum DevelopmentTechnical Training
  • Military & Defense Training
  • Classroom & Field Instruction
  • Training Needs Analysis
  • Learning Management Systems (LMS)
  • E-Learning & Simulation
  • Performance Assessment
  • Compliance & Documentation
  • Leadership & Mentoring
  • Communication & Presentation
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
  • Safety & Quality
Why Join Us?

Join a team dedicated to improving defense readiness, workforce performance, safety, and operational effectiveness. In this role, you will have the opportunity to shape training programs that develop the knowledge and skills of military, technical, and defense personnel.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage qualified candidates of all backgrounds to apply.
This is a hybrid Remote (work from home) position that's contigent upon contract award.

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