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Entry Level Defense Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Entry level position for a dynamic individual with a 2-year Associates Electronics degree ... S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which ...

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Entry Level Defense information

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How much do entry level defense jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense in New York is $18.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.12 and $19.71 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 New York?

The most popular types of Defense jobs in New York are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,540 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Entry Level Staff Attorney, Family Defense Practice

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

Brooklyn Defender Services
51 - 200 employees

$99K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Family Defense Practice Seeks Entry Level Attorney Candidates for Fall 2027

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) seeks rising third year law students, judicial law clerks, and recent law school graduates for Entry Level Staff Attorney positions. 

BDS is a public defense office representing low-income New Yorkers in criminal, family, immigration, and civil legal matters. For nearly 30 years, BDS has worked, in and out of court, to protect and uphold the rights of individuals and to change laws and systems that perpetuate injustice and inequality. Our legal expertise work with clients is focused on the intersections of these legal systems that disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities living in poverty. 

BDS represents thousands of people each year who have diverse, complex, and multi-faceted legal needs. In addition to a zealous legal defense, our interdisciplinary teams of attorneys, social workers and advocates provide a wide range of legal and advocacy services, including for housing, public benefits, education, and employment. BDS staff work collaboratively and across disciplines to deliver high-quality legal services that serve the people we represent, their families and communities.

BDS’ Family Defense Practice (FDP) is the primary provider of legal representation for parents and caretakers who are accused of neglect or abuse in Brooklyn Family Court and are facing the risk of family separation through foster placement of their child(ren). FDP’s interdisciplinary staff of attorneys, social workers, and advocates provide comprehensive representation to parents which includes robust legal representation and intensive social work intervention. FDP staff works closely with BDS’ other practices to ensure clients have access to a wide range of additional services and resources through our interdisciplinary practice model. 

Under the general supervision of a Supervising Attorney, attorneys collaborate with social workers, paralegals and administrative staff to provide comprehensive legal advocacy and representation to clients. 

Responsibilities 

  • Attend training program in Fall of 2027.
  • Develop a caseload over time in which the law graduate/attorney will provide comprehensive representation to parents and caretakers facing the removal of children from intake through the life of a case in Brooklyn Family Court as well as occasional final appeals with the assistance of the Law and Appeals unit.
  • Work on an interdisciplinary team which includes social workers and paralegals to advance the interests of the client. 
  • Pick up cases in intake, which is the first appearance for the parties. Attorneys generally maintain the cases they are assigned at intake for the life of the case. 
  • Prepare for and litigate hearings and trials in Family Court, including emergency hearings seeking family reunification when appropriate.
  • Represent their clients in interim appeals.
  • Prepare and argue written motions seeking increased visitation, family reunification and to achieve other client goals.
  • Collaborate with BDS staff from our other practice areas, including criminal and civil to forward the goal of holistic services and to provide comprehensive legal assistance to clients.
  • Meet regularly with assigned supervisor to review cases and discuss case strategy.
  • Attend regular trainings and meetings to build litigation skills and develop substantive knowledge. 
  • Other responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Juris Doctor (JD) degree anticipated by the start date of the incoming class in September 2027.
  • Have taken the first available bar exam in NY after graduation.
  • A strong desire to advocate on behalf of people who are facing family separation.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with interdisciplinary staff members both within the practice and throughout BDS.
  • Ability to work independently and in a team setting. 
  • Ability to work in a high stress environment, multitask, and be flexible.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage a high-needs caseload, including an ability to prioritize tasks where requests and deadlines are often on short notice. 

Position Information

This is an exempt, salaried position in the collective bargaining unit. The normal schedule is Monday to Friday 9am-5pm but there are times where emergencies and/or case preparation may require working outside these hours. The position is based at BDS’s offices, and the courts located in Downtown Brooklyn. 

BDS determines salary on a pay scale based on education and experience. The salary for a 2027 law school graduate will be $99,000. BDS offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance and a 403(b) retirement plan. In order to support work/life balance and family-friendly policies, BDS has generous vacation, sick, holiday, family, and medical leave policies.

Application Instructions     

Click “Apply Now” to submit a cover letter and resume on our online application portal. 

Brooklyn Defender Services is a proud equal opportunity employer committed to celebrating diversity and maintaining an equitable and inclusive work environment. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, expressions, orientations, disabilities, and experiences to apply. If you require an accommodation due to a disability or another reason, please contact the Managing Director, H.R., Christina Wallace, at cwallace @ bds.org.