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Entry Level Defense Contractor Jobs in California

Entry-Level Engineer

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$52K - $82K/yr

... Contractor providing Engineering, Logistics, and Program Support Services to the Department of ... Defense (DoD). Our team of over 200 employees is committed to delivering practical, innovative, and ...

Entry-Level Engineer

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$52K - $82K/yr

... Contractor providing Engineering, Logistics, and Program Support Services to the Department of ... Defense (DoD). Our team of over 200 employees is committed to delivering practical, innovative, and ...

The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for an Entry Level Procurement Agent (Level 1) to join our Contracting team in El Segundo, California . Position ...

The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for an Entry Level Procurement Agent (Level 1) to join our Contracting team in El Segundo, California . Position ...

The Boeing Company Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) has an exciting opportunity for an Entry Level Procurement Agent (Level 1) to join our Contracting team in El Segundo, California . Position ...

Training Specialist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$24 - $40/hr

Hadrian works with startups, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, and major defense contractors across ... Proven ability to train people with experience ranging from entry level - mid level * Aptitude for ...

Staff Accountant

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

... or entry-level finance roles * Basic understanding of accounting principles and financial ... contracting, aerospace, manufacturing, or defense environments * Familiarity with DCAA, FAR, or ...

Responsible for reviewing Sub-tier contractor requirements, building data tracks for supplier ... Knowledge of Government defense contracts, specifications, and instructions * Develops technical ...

Junior Accountant

Victorville, CA · On-site

$50K - $63K/yr

... or entry-level finance roles. * Basic understanding of accounting principles and financial ... contracting, aerospace, manufacturing, or defense environments. * Familiarity with DCAA, FAR, or ...

Description SAIC is seeking an entry level Part time on-call Data Technician for upcoming work in ... contractor-provided training, and providing daily input of activities to site lead(s) in a timely ...

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Entry Level Defense Contractor information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$47.2K

$67.6K

How much do entry level defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense contractor in California is $47,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Defense Contractor job?

An Entry Level Defense Contractor job involves working for a private company that provides goods or services to the military and government defense agencies. These roles can vary widely, including engineering, cybersecurity, logistics, and project management. Typically, entry-level positions require a relevant degree or technical skills, along with the ability to obtain security clearance if needed. Responsibilities may include assisting with research, supporting senior team members, and ensuring compliance with government regulations. It’s a great starting point for those looking to build a career in the defense industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Defense Contractor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Defense Contractor, you generally need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, computer science, or business, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with industry-specific tools such as project management software, technical documentation platforms, and sometimes security clearance processes is often required. Strong attention to detail, adaptability, and teamwork are important soft skills for collaborating effectively and meeting project objectives. These abilities are essential for ensuring compliance with industry standards, successful project delivery, and maintaining the trust of both clients and regulatory bodies.

What does the daily work of an Entry Level Defense Contractor typically involve?

As an Entry Level Defense Contractor, your daily responsibilities might include assisting with project documentation, analyzing data, supporting senior team members in proposal preparation, and ensuring compliance with defense regulations. You'll often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, such as engineers, analysts, and project managers, to help execute specific project tasks. Many roles involve a balance of desk work and occasional meetings or briefings to discuss project progress and requirements. This position offers valuable exposure to complex national security projects and allows you to build technical and collaborative skills that are highly regarded across the industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor jobs in California? The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Defense Contractor jobs in California? For Entry Level Defense Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Contractor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Contractor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Defense Contractor jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Defense Contractor job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,205 per year, or $22.7 per hour.
Aerospace Assembly - Entry Level

Aerospace Assembly - Entry Level

Karman Space & Defense

Brea, CA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago


Karman Space & Defense rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SUMMARY:

Karman Space & Defense is looking for Assembly Technicians at all levels of experience for a hands-on work environment performing a variety of tasks to support the engineering, manufacturing and production teams. Daily responsibilities may include production assembly, mechanical assembly, thermal protection systems, receiving support, packaging and shipping. Previous experience working with power tools & forklifts are encouraged. The Assembly Technician reports to the Assembly Manager & Operations Manager.

About us:

Karman Space & Defense provides concept-to-production solutions for mission-critical systems on spacecraft, launch vehicles, missiles, hypersonics, and integrated defense systems. We believe that solving the industry’s most complex and mission-critical challenges requires relentless determination and a willingness to push the boundaries of possibility. Karman Space & Defense brings to bear unparalleled production capabilities, unmatched engineering expertise, and unflinching analysis to render the impossible, possible.


COMPANY BENEFITS:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life
  • 401k
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Referral Program

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Performs assembly task according to verbal and written instructions
  • Uses solvents & bonding material as required
  • Ability to use hand tools
  • Basic computer skills
  • Basic ability to use measuring tools
  • Maintain a clean work area daily


**Night Shift Candidates: MUST BE ABLE TO TRAIN ON THE 1st SHIFT AND TRANSITION TO 2nd SHIFT


ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Karman is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to race; color; religion; genetic information; national origin; sex; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; age; disability; citizenship status; uniform servicemember status; or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

Our management is dedicated to ensuring the fulfillment of this policy with respect to hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, recruitment advertising, pay, and other forms of compensation, training, and general treatment during employment.


1st Shift | 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM | Monday-Friday, Saturday (6 hours)
2nd Shift 4:00 PM to 12:45 AM - Monday-Friday, Saturday (6 hours)

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