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Entry Level Defense Analyst Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

M&S Analyst (Entry-Level)

Panama City, FL · On-site

$85K - $116K/yr

Cortina Solutions is seeking an entry-level Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Analyst to support the ... defense workforce. Key Responsibilities * Support Software-in-the-Loop (SWIL) integration testing ...

... seeking an entry-level Associate Attorney to join its growing insurance defense practice. This ... Conduct legal research and analysis on a variety of litigation issues * Draft legal documents ...

S. defense contractor and a member of the Nammo Group (Nammo AS). Nammo Perry develops ... We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry Level Project Engineer to join our engineering ...

S. defense contractor and a member of the Nammo Group (Nammo AS). Nammo Perry develops ... We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Entry Level Project Engineer to join our engineering ...

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Entry Level Defense Analyst information

See Florida salary details

$10

$28

$51

How much do entry level defense analyst jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense analyst in Florida is $28.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $36.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level defense analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Defense Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a relevant bachelor's degree (such as in political science, international relations, or security studies), and an understanding of defense and security concepts. Familiarity with data analysis tools, intelligence databases, and sometimes security clearance are typical technical requirements. Attention to detail, strong written and verbal communication, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities are vital for accurately assessing threats, producing actionable insights, and supporting mission-critical defense objectives.

What is an entry level defense analyst?

An entry level defense analyst is a professional who assists in analyzing military data, policies, and strategies to support national defense initiatives. They typically work for government agencies, defense contractors, or consulting firms, and are responsible for collecting and interpreting information to inform decision-making. Their work may involve researching threats, evaluating defense systems, preparing reports, and supporting senior analysts. Entry level defense analysts usually have a background in political science, international relations, or related fields, and strong analytical and communication skills. This position serves as a starting point for a career in defense analysis and national security.

What is the difference between Entry Level Defense Analyst vs Entry Level Intelligence Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Defense AnalystEntry Level Intelligence Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in security, defense, or related field; often requires security clearanceBachelor's degree in intelligence, security studies, or related field; may require security clearance
Work EnvironmentDefense agencies, military contractors, government officesIntelligence agencies, government departments, defense contractors
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in defense and military sectorsPrimarily in intelligence and national security sectors

While both roles involve analyzing security data, Entry Level Defense Analysts focus on defense operations and military applications, whereas Entry Level Intelligence Analysts concentrate on gathering and interpreting intelligence information for national security. Both positions require similar educational backgrounds and security clearances, but their specific focus areas and employer environments differ.

What are some typical projects or assignments an entry level defense analyst might work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Defense Analyst, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects that support senior analysts and defense planners. Typical assignments may include collecting and analyzing data related to military operations, preparing reports on defense capabilities, and assisting with research on emerging security threats. You'll likely collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, policy experts, and military personnel, to provide insights that inform strategic decisions. This role offers a strong foundation for learning about defense systems and operations, with opportunities to gradually take on more complex responsibilities as you gain experience.
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Analyst job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,045 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

M&S Analyst (Entry-Level)

Cortina Solutions

Panama City, FL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

About Us

Be a part of a winning team that provides technical solutions with integrity. Cortina is a government contractor providing technical professional services. But we are so much more than that! For approximately every three employees brought on to support the government, we hire an individual from an under-resourced, developing community and train them to enter the professional job market.

Cortina is very proud of the reach-back it offers to the local community. Not only that, we LOVE our employees and do all we can to ensure they have a great work experience. Come join a company that believes in being a part of something bigger than themselves!


Job Description

Cortina Solutions is seeking an entry-level Modeling and Simulation (M&S) Analyst to support the execution of a complex contract supporting the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD). In this role, you will be a key contributor to multi-domain efforts that shape the future of naval warfare technology. The ideal candidate will be expected to execute with Excellence, serve with Integrity, and approach every problem with a drive to Get Things Done.


The M&S Analyst provides critical simulation execution and Software-in-the-Loop (SWIL) integration support for complex engineering projects. This role bridges the gap between software development and virtual test environments, ensuring our systems are robust, reliable, and ready for deployment. The position utilizes contemporary analytical tools to prepare model inputs/outputs, support data collection, and manage simulation scenario preparation.


At Cortina, we believe in training and developing our workforce, not just providing a job. The selected candidate will be paired with a senior team lead for structured mentoring, hands-on training, and professional development in support of your career and our nation's critical defense workforce.


Key Responsibilities

  • Support Software-in-the-Loop (SWIL) integration testing, ensuring seamless communication and functionality between software components and simulated environments.
  • Run simulation events and assist with scenario preparation to evaluate system performance and support design validation.
  • Conduct data collection and perform analysis of simulation results to improve simulation fidelity, system durability, and safety.
  • Assist with day-to-day SWIL lab operations, support Verification, Validation, and Accreditation (VV&A) documentation, and keep simulation environments calibrated and operational.
  • Prepare model inputs/outputs and manage simulation interfaces to support dynamic, multi-variable engineering scenarios and real-time data exchange.
  • Collaborate with systems engineers, QA, and hardware teams to define integration requirements and resolve technical issues.


Job Requirements

  • 0-3 years of relevant civilian or military professional modeling and simulation, data analysis, or technical experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, or a related technical/analytical discipline.
  • Demonstrated experience with or academic exposure to simulation technologies, specifically SWIL/SIL and HIL test environments.
  • Familiarity with programming languages or scripting tools (such as C++, Python, MATLAB, and/or Fortran) used for simulation and modeling.
  • Proven ability to perform data extraction, scenario setup, integration testing, and basic data analysis.
  • Clearance: Active DOD Secret clearance or the ability to obtain one.


Preferred Requirements

  • Experience preparing M&S inputs/outputs and data visualization products.
  • Familiarity with simulation development using the Unity game engine or virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR) applications.
  • Experience assisting with the physical setup, maintenance, or operations of a simulation lab.
  • Experience working in a DevOps or other Agile software development environment.


Benefits

Cortina Solutions is committed to offering comprehensive and affordable benefits to employees and their families.

  • BCBS Medical and Dental Insurance
  • VSP Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Dependent Care Reimbursement
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Company-paid Life Insurance
  • Company-paid Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
  • Voluntary Term Life Insurance
  • Matching 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible PTO
  • Maternity and Paternity Leave
  • Federal Holidays
  • Company Match on Employee Non-Profit Donation
  • Professional Development


Background Check Requirement

As our team members work on government sites, all potential candidates are subject to a background screening that fully complies with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.


Position dependent on contract award.