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Entry Level Defense Industry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WHO WE ARE Lockheed Martin is a global leader in aerospace, defense, and technology solutions, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the industry. With a rich ...

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Entry Level Defense Industry information

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$25K

$47.8K

$68.5K

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

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level defense industry in the United States is $47,831.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Defense Industry job?

An entry-level defense industry job is a starting position in companies or government agencies that support national security and military operations. These roles often involve engineering, cybersecurity, logistics, intelligence analysis, or manufacturing. They typically require a relevant degree, security clearance eligibility, and an interest in defense technologies. Entry-level employees work alongside experienced professionals to develop critical systems, maintain infrastructure, or analyze threats. Many positions offer career growth, specialized training, and opportunities to contribute to national security objectives.

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

To thrive in an entry level defense industry role, you should have a strong foundation in STEM disciplines, attention to detail, and eligibility for security clearance, often requiring a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with CAD software, data analysis tools, and defense-specific protocols or certifications, such as ITAR compliance, can be very beneficial. Effective teamwork, adaptability, and strong problem-solving abilities are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies are essential for contributing to complex, high-security projects and ensuring compliance with rigorous industry standards.

What does a typical day look like for someone in an entry level defense industry position?

A typical day in an entry level defense industry position involves assisting senior engineers or analysts with project tasks, conducting data analysis, attending team meetings, and documenting progress to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. You may work on assembling and testing prototypes, creating reports, or supporting various phases of product development. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is common, allowing new employees to learn from experienced professionals while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the project lifecycle. The work environment is generally structured and secure, with clear guidelines to maintain safety and confidentiality. Over time, employees can expect to take on additional responsibilities and pursue specialized training for career advancement.

More about Entry Level Defense Industry jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Defense Industry jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Defense Industry job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Industry jobs? The most popular types of Defense Industry jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Defense Industry jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Defense Industry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Defense Industry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Defense Industry jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense Industry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,831 per year, or $23 per hour.
Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator I-III *Swing Shift*

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator I-III *Swing Shift*

Kratos Defense

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology. We leverage proven, cutting-edge methodologies and technology to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks, ensuring timely delivery of cost-effective solutions to market.

Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS), a division of Kratos Defense, is renowned for its expertise in developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high-performance, cost-effective, jet-powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid-tier defense contractor, we've demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the US military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top-notch jet-powered subscale targets has established us as a go-to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price.

At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today!


 [Swing Shift is 3:00pm - 1:30am, Mon - Thurs]


GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
Manufactures products using either wet lamination or pre-preg lamination.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
The duties and responsibilities listed below apply to all levels. Each level of has additional duties and responsibilities listed.

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator ALL:

  • Performs a variety of tasks, which require knowledge of lamination techniques, materials, tools and equipment.
  • Interprets and follows manufacturing orders.
  • Using pre-preg lamination techniques, cuts cloth and lays up products of varying tolerances.
  • Prepares products for vacuum bagging (pre-preg).
  • Handles, applies, stores and disposes of composite materials, adhesives, sealants, resins and solvents.
  • Inspects finished products for conformance to specifications.
  • Completes all required documentation related to assigned job(s).
  • Follows FOD (foreign object debris prevention) practices.
  • Complies with established safety directives.
  • Maintains a clean work area to ensure strict adherence to 5S Standards.
  • Complies with established QMS procedures.
  • Other duties may be assigned.

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator I:
Specific duties and responsibilities for this level include

  • Working under close supervision
  • Math
  • Documentation
  • Materials Knowledge
  • Tooling/Molds
  • Equipment
  • Process
  • Quality
  • Safety

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator II:
Specific duties and responsibilities for this level include an intermediate level of

  • Working under limited supervision
  • May work from verbal directives
  • Math
  • Documentation
  • Materials Knowledge
  • Tooling/Molds
  • Equipment
  • Process
  • Quality
  • Safety

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator III:
Specific duties and responsibilities for this level include an advanced level of

  • Working under minimal supervision
  • Responsible for training entry level employees
  • Math
  • Documentation
  • Materials Knowledge
  • Tooling/Molds
  • Equipment
  • Process
  • Quality
  • Safety

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

  • None.

#LI-Onsite


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Required:

  • Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards.
  • Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors.
  • Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary.
  • Ability to adhere to workplace rules.
  • Ability to effectively communicate professionally in writing or verbally with all levels of personnel.
  • Ability to support a “right-the-first-time” approach that focuses on zero defects.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Each successive level of Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator builds on the identified typical qualifications listed for the previous level(s).

Required:

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator I

  • HS Diploma or equivalent.
  • Must be able to demonstrate accurate basic math skills.
  • Must be able to demonstrate the accurate use of a tape measure.

Typical qualifications for this level include:

  • Math
  • Documentation
  • Materials Knowledge
  • Tooling/Molds
  • Equipment
  • Process
  • Quality
  • Safety
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator II
Typical qualifications for this level include an intermediate level of:

  • Basic computer skills with the ability to navigate around files
  • Math
  • Documentation
  • Materials Knowledge
  • Tooling/Molds
  • Equipment
  • Process
  • Quality
  • Safety
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator III
Typical qualifications for this level include an advanced level of:

  • Math
  • Documentation
  • Materials Knowledge
  • Tooling/Molds
  • Equipment
  • Process
  • Quality
  • Safety
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance at the appropriate level (requires U.S. Citizenship).

Preferred:

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator I

  • Hands-on experience in manufacturing production.
  • Hands on experience, training, or education in laying up aircraft parts onto hard tooling using pre-preg carbon fiber.
  • Hands on experience, training, or education in carbon composite bonding techniques.
  • Hands on experience, training, or education in using epoxies and adhesive type materials to build parts and assemblies.

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator II

  • 2 years hands-on experience in composite manufacturing.

Aircraft Composite Layup Fabricator III

  • 4 years hands-on experience in composite manufacturing.

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Physical Requirements:

  • Standing, walking, lifting, bending, reaching, grasping, stooping, kneeling, climbing.
  • May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines.
  • May occasionally manipulate materials.
  • Employee may generate, handle, manage, or work around hazardous materials and hazardous wastes.

Working Conditions:

  • May work in controlled and non-temperature-controlled environments.
  • Occasional exposure to noise, hazardous materials and chemicals.
  • May work extended hours or weekends.
  • Works with a variety of hand tools, power tools and other related equipment .
  • Works in confined spaces.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

  • None.