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Entry Level Defense Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Pace Industries, LLC

Material Planner I

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$60K - $83K/yr

This entry-level position requires a blend of analytical skills, knowledge of inventory management ... Sierra Space Headquartered in Colorado, Sierra Space is a mission-proven Defense Tech company ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$18.70/hr

Target Level: $ 22.33 Intermediate Level: $ 20.89 Entry Level: $ 18.70 Qualifications: Who May Apply: Open to everyone. Applicants will be categorized by preference(s) and/or priority consideration ...

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Entry Level Defense information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$17

$23

How much do entry level defense jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense in Colorado is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.44 and $18.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level defense job?

Entry level defense jobs are positions within the defense industry or military that require little to no prior experience and are suitable for recent graduates or individuals starting their careers. These roles can include administrative support, logistics, engineering, information technology, and security positions, among others. Entry level positions in defense may be found with government agencies, the armed forces, or private defense contractors, and often provide opportunities for on-the-job training and career advancement. Applicants typically need at least a high school diploma or associate’s degree, and some positions may require security clearances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level defense professional?

To thrive as an Entry Level Defense professional, you typically need a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field, along with a strong understanding of defense protocols and security principles. Familiarity with defense-related software, cybersecurity tools, and sometimes active security clearance is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring national security, supporting mission-critical projects, and collaborating effectively in high-stakes environments.

What types of projects or assignments can I expect as an entry level defense professional?

As an entry-level defense professional, you can expect to work on a variety of projects ranging from supporting senior analysts on research tasks to assisting with the development, testing, or maintenance of defense systems. Your daily responsibilities may include data analysis, report preparation, participating in project meetings, and ensuring compliance with security protocols. You'll often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, such as engineers, project managers, and security personnel. This exposure provides valuable learning opportunities and can help you identify areas for future specialization within the defense sector.

What is the difference between Entry Level Defense vs Entry Level Security Guard?

AspectEntry Level DefenseEntry Level Security Guard
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, background check, basic physical fitnessHigh school diploma, background check, basic physical fitness
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, defense facilities, government sitesCommercial buildings, retail stores, event venues
Employer & IndustryDefense contractors, government agenciesPrivate security companies, retail, hospitality

Entry Level Defense roles typically involve working in government or military-related environments with a focus on national security, requiring similar credentials as security guards. However, defense roles may demand additional clearances or specialized training. Security guards generally work in commercial settings, focusing on property and personnel safety. Both roles serve security purposes but differ mainly in work environment and scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Defense jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Entry Level Defense jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Entry Level Defense job openings:

Entry Level Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense job openings in Colorado as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,042 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Entry-Level RF Engineer

Lakewood, CO • On-site

ELECTRO MAGNETIC APPLICATIONS INC
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about ELECTRO MAGNETIC APPLICATIONS INCexternal

$85K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support RF/antenna modeling and simulation.

  • Assist with EMC, RF susceptibility, and antenna pattern testing in the lab and in the field.

  • Analyze test data and simulation results, and help prepare technical reports for customers.

Job description

About EMA

Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. (EMA) is an employee-focused aerospace and defense engineering firm specializing in electromagnetic simulation, engineering consulting, and physical testing. For over four decades, EMA has helped customers across aerospace, defense, and commercial space understand and solve complex electromagnetic compatibility, lightning, EMP, and RF challenges. We're a close-knit, technically rigorous team where new engineers work directly alongside senior experts from day one.


The Role

We're looking for an Entry-Level RF Engineer to join our technical team supporting simulation, analysis, and test programs for customers across the aerospace, defense, and space industries. You'll work on real hardware and real physics from your first month — supporting antenna and RF system analysis, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) evaluations, and field testing for customers ranging from major defense primes to emerging space companies.


What You'll Do

- Support RF/antenna modeling and simulation

- Assist with EMC, RF susceptibility, and antenna pattern testing in the lab and in the field

- Analyze test data and simulation results, and help prepare clear technical reports for customers

- Collaborate with senior RF, EMC, and systems engineers on multi-disciplinary defense and aerospace programs

- Contribute to proposal technical content as your experience grows

- Participate in on-the-job training and mentorship from EMA's senior technical staff


What You Bring

- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, with coursework or research in RF/microwave engineering, antennas, or applied electromagnetics

- Foundational understanding of RF/microwave concepts: S-parameters, Smith charts, antenna fundamentals, transmission lines, and EM wave propagation

- Exposure to EM simulation tools through coursework, research, or internships

- Familiarity with a scripting/analysis language such as Python or MATLAB

- Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfort presenting technical results to teammates and customers

- Willingness to travel up to 25% for field testing

- Must qualify as a U.S. Person under ITAR (22 CFR 120.62) — U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual — due to the nature of EMA's defense-related work

- Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance


Nice to Have

- Hands-on lab or test experience (senior design project, research lab, internship, or ham radio/RF hobbyist background)

- Exposure to EMC/EMI standards (MIL-STD-461, DO-160, or similar)

- Active security clearance


Compensation & Benefits

The base salary range for this position is $85,000–$115,000 per year, depending on degree level, relevant coursework/research, and internship experience. In addition to base salary, EMA offers:

- Medical, dental, and vision insurance

- 401(k) with company match

- Paid time off and paid holidays

- Professional development support (conference attendance, certifications, continuing education)

- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates

- Direct mentorship from senior RF and EMC engineers in a collaborative, technically deep environment


Location

This role is based at EMA's headquarters in Lakewood, CO. Relocation assistance is available for strong candidates outside the Denver metro area.