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Entry Level Defense Contractor Jobs in Tennessee

Our projects span the automotive, motorsports, defense, nuclear, and aerospace markets. Recent ... We are looking for an entry-level or early career Mechanical Engineer with strong technical skills ...

Chemist 1

Erwin, TN · On-site

$64K - $90K/yr

S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering ... This is an entry level position for chemists. Initially, the chemist is assigned to training in ...

Exempt Salary Range: $60,000 per year (Entry level preferred) Job Summary: ADPma is looking for a ... We are an OEM and aftermarket supplier to the global commercial aviation and defense sectors of the ...

Exempt Salary Range: $60,000 per year (Entry level preferred) Job Summary: ADPma is looking for a ... We are an OEM and aftermarket supplier to the global commercial aviation and defense sectors of the ...

Entry Level Defense Contractor information

What is an entry level defense contractor?

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 does an entry level defense contractor do?

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level defense contractor position?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs in Tennessee are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Contractor job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Manufacturing Inspector I with Security Clearance

PDS Defense Inc.

Piney Flats, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking a Manufacturing Inspector I, in Piney Flats, TN. Job ID#225066 Job Description: Bring your experience and ideas and help us to give the highest quality products and service to our customers. This role will be an integral part of the team, working closely with the manufacturing team. You'll be able to hone your technical abilities through inspecting parts, assemblies, raw materials and finishes, all while gaining experience in leadership and communication.
• Inspect various aviation parts and assemblies under supervision, to include operation of various equipment and testing instruments and equipment as required, and working from blueprints, diagrams, engineering orders, etc., to verify compliance to design.
• Approve and reject manufacturing work based on required standards, and effectively communicate approval/rejection status and related details to manufacturing and engineering
• Fully adhere to work instructions and other related policies, procedures and processes
• Understand basic blueprints and manufacturing drawings with assistance Experience/Skills/Working Conditions
• Basic computer skills (MS Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Ability to use basic measuring equipment such as scales, calipers, and tape measure
• Ability to complete required documentation under supervision
• Ability to perform entry level inspections in assigned area
• Strong communication and organization skills
• Ability to stand for long periods of time, up to duration of shift
• Ability to kneel, squat, stand, sit, and carry throughout the day
• Ability to wear all protective equipment (ex. Protective gloves, safety glasses, etc.)
• Ability to work amidst mild chemical odors such as lacquer thinner, proseal and adhesives
• Must be able to lift to 25 lbs on a regular basis
• Ability to work in environment with exposure to various chemicals, dust and odors, and various machine heat cycles Education
• High School Diploma or GED with 0-1 years of experience relevant to job duties Benefits offered to vary by the contract. Depending on your temporary assignment, benefits may include direct deposit, free career counseling services, 401(k), select paid holidays, short-term disability insurance, skills training, employee referral bonus, affordable medical coverage plan, and DailyPay (in some locations). For a full description of benefits available to you, be sure to talk with your recruiter. Military connected talent encouraged to apply. VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please visit http://www.tadpgs.com/candidate-privacy/ or https://pdsdefense.com/candidate-privacy/ The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable: * The California Fair Chance Act
* Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
* Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
* San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance