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Entry Level Defense Analyst Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Greystone of Lincoln

Process Engineer

Toano, VA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Greystone, a leading Tier II manufacturer in the automotive, medical, defense, and aerospace ... Analyze production operations to identify improvement opportunities and implement recommended ...

Greystone of Lincoln

Process Engineer

Toano, VA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Greystone, a leading Tier II manufacturer in the automotive, medical, defense, and aerospace ... Analyze production operations to identify improvement opportunities and implement recommended ...

U.S. Marine Corps

ACCOUNTANT

Quantico, VA · On-site +1

$102K - $158K/yr

You will independently analyze financial management and accounting operations, identify complex ... Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days ...

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Entry Level Defense Analyst information

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$14

$38

$67

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense analyst in Virginia is $38.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.72 and $47.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Analyst jobs in Virginia?

For Entry Level Defense Analyst jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Analyst jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Analyst jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Defense Analyst jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Defense Analyst job openings:

Entry Level Defense Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Analyst job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,661 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Software Engineer (Entry-Senior) - Navy Training & Simulation Systems - 28027

HII's Mission Technologies division

Virginia Beach, VA

$70K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Requisition Number: 28027 

Required Travel: 0 - 10%

Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt

Anticipated Salary Range: $70,000.00 - $145,000.00 

Security Clearance: Secret  

Level of Experience: Mid 

This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.

Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies

Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every team member contributes to our mission and culture:

  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.

These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.

Summary

HII Mission Technologies is seeking Software Engineers across multiple experience levels (Entry through Senior) to support the design, development, and deployment of the Advanced Training Domain (ATD) System-a missioncritical U.S. Navy combat systems trainer. This team delivers highfidelity simulations that enhance fleet readiness and modernize shipboard and shore-based training.

This is an onsite, hands-on engineering role working within a secure environment alongside developers, systems engineers, and Navy operators. As part of our Integrated Training Systems group, you will help deliver software that directly improves warfighter performance. #LI-MJ1

Why This Role Matters
  • Modernizes advanced Navy training systems used fleetwide
  • Builds realworld combat system simulation capabilities
  • Supports mission readiness, national defense, and advanced training modernization
  • Offers growth across multiple levels of engineering responsibility
The following positions are available: (Role and target salary) 
  • Software Engineer I: $70,000
  • Software Engineer II: $82,500
  • Software Engineer III: $110,000
  • Software Engineer IV / Senior: $145,000

Final offers aligned to level, experience, skills, and internal equity.


Key Job Responsibilities
All Levels

Participate in Agile sprint planning, execution, and reviews. Design, develop, test, and deploy C++ and/or Java software on Linux platforms as part of the ATD system. Analyze and resolve software issues, including STRs. Create clear technical documentation such as sequence diagrams, developer notes, and code commentary. Conduct developer testing in lab environments and aboard ship as required. Support installation, integration, and system verification events with minimal travel. Collaborate with crossfunctional teams-including systems engineering, test, integration, and Navy operators-to deliver highfidelity training capabilities. Follow secure coding, configuration management, and Agile best practices throughout the software lifecycle. Teammates will also perform additional related duties as assigned to support project and organizational needs

Level Differentiators Entry-Level (Software Engineer 1)

Works under guidance to implement wellscoped features and support development tasks. Troubleshoots routine issues with assistance and contributes to documentation, code hygiene, and Agile ceremonies. Builds familiarity with ATD systems, Navy training environments, and simulation technologies. Focuses on learning, growth, and contributing reliably with limited systemlevel ownership.

Intermediate (Software Engineer 2)

Independently develops features and resolves moderately complex issues. Troubleshoots across multiple components with limited oversight and contributes to componentlevel design discussions. Supports GUI development, integration tasks, ActiveMQ/JAWS components, and lab/shipboard testing with minimal supervision.

Advanced (Software Engineer 3)

Owns subsystem development and deep troubleshooting. Leads sprint tasks and resolves complex STRs. Coordinates with multiple engineering disciplines, supports crossteam integration, and provides technical guidance to peers. Promotes coding/testing best practices and performs highercomplexity integration and testing activities autonomously.

Senior (Software Engineer 4)

Architects multicomponent C++/Java solutions and serves as a senior technical contributor. Leads integration efforts across teams, drives technical decisions, and mentors engineers at all levels. Reviews major technical products, influences systemlevel strategy, and owns significant ATD system components and roadmap direction.

Note: System ownership expectations, troubleshooting complexity, and collaboration/leadership responsibilities increase with each level.

What you must have
Education & Experience

Must have relevant experience with Bachelors in related field:

  • Software Engineer 1: Bachelor's (0 exp) OR HS + 4 yrs
  • Software Engineer 2: Bachelor's + 2 yrs OR Master's (0 yrs) OR HS + 6 yrs
  • Software Engineer 3: Bachelor's + 5 yrs OR Master's + 3 yrs OR HS + 9 yrs OR PhD or Juris Doctorate (0 yrs)
  • Software Engineer 4: Bachelor's + 9 yrs OR Master's + 7 yrs OR HS + 13 yrs OR PhD or Juris Doctorate + 4 yrs 
Technical Skills
  • Experience with C++ and/or Java development in Linux environments
  • Familiarity with Agile/Scrum processes
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex software issues
  • System ownership, troubleshooting complexity, and collaboration/leadership expectations will vary and increase based on level.
Clearance Requirements
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must have a current or active a DoD Secret clearance
  • Ability to otain a DoD Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+) within 3 months of hire if not currently held.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, IT, Data Science, or related
  • Experience developing or integrating Navy training systems or simulations
  • Familiarity with ActiveMQ, JAWS, GUI development
  • Experience with Jira, GitLab, CI/CD pipelines, virtualization, or container tools
  • Experience in Navy training environments or other mission-critical systems
  • IAT Level II certification or higher (e.g., Security+ CE, CCNA Security, CySA+)
Physical Requirements
Adequate visual acuity and manual dexterity for meeting the requirements Software Engineer family.


The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance? 
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.

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