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Entry Level Defense Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Relevant experience may include internships, co-ops, or entry-level roles in pricing, finance ... defense, energy, HVAC & refrigeration, in-plant & industrial equipment, off-highway and ...

Logistics Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $26.75/hr

... Entry Level Category Operations Job Type Permanent BridgeNet Solutions, a member of the PSA Group ... The Logistics Coordinator role is BridgeNet's first line of defense in transportation execution ...

Showing results 41-58

Entry Level Defense information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$13

$17

$22

How much do entry level defense jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level defense in Chicago, IL is $17.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $18.56 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Defense jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Defense job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,289 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Senior Associate, Risk Consulting (Insurance)

RSM Global

Chicago, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

We are the leading provider of professional services to the middle market globally, our purpose is to instill confidence in a world of change, empowering our clients and people to realize their full potential. Our exceptional people are the key to our unrivaled, culture and talent experience and our ability to be compelling to our clients. You'll find an environment that inspires and empowers you to thrive both personally and professionally. There's no one like you and that's why there's nowhere like RSM.
The Position
Due to rapid growth of our Financial Services Risk Consulting practice within the insurance industry and the evolving risk landscape of our clients, RSM is seeking a highly motivated senior consultant to lead teams of risk consulting professionals in addressing our clients' needs.
Key Responsibilities
As a Senior Associate in the Financial Services Risk Consulting (Insurance) practice at RSM, you'll be asked to consistently:
  • Model the core RSM values of respect, integrity, teamwork, excellence and stewardship in all interactions with clients and team members
  • Demonstrate your ability to:
    • Provide subject-matter expertise in risk consulting strategies and internal controls
    • Lead client engagement activities through the project lifecycle from initiation to close-out, including conducting risk assessments and client walkthroughs, preparing and reviewing work product, helping with process redesign and preparing client deliverables
    • Manage projects to successful completion through clear communication, expectation setting with stakeholders, deadline management, and within applicable resource and economic requirements.
    • Support multiple client projects simultaneously, while actively contributing to internal initiatives such as talent, practice, and business development
    • Leverage your understanding of the insurance industry and trends to effectively communicate leading risk management practices as your clients' trusted advisor
    • Communicate effectively with your internal management team and develop executive presence through interactions with senior management within RSM and our clients
    • Support our people - work collaboratively with others and provide on the job training to develop team members
    • Support our clients - conduct yourself in a professional manner and develop meaningful relationships with client personnel in order to maximize client value

Position Qualifications
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in business, accounting, engineering or related discipline.
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience working in the insurance industry as an internal auditor, controls specialist, claims specialist, underwriting specialist, management consultant with a minimum of 1 year at a public accounting or professional services firm.
  • Experience with leading projects across the three lines of defense and with various lines of business (e.g. CFO group, operations (claims, product, underwriting, actuarial) data, technology, regulatory compliance, risk management, internal audit)
  • Proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation creation tools
  • Job relevant certification (e.g., ARM, CRM, CPA, CIA, CFE, PMP) preferred
  • Ability to travel to meet client needs.
  • Established experience in the financial services industry with a focus on insurance

At RSM, we offer a competitive benefits and compensation package for all our people. We offer flexibility in your schedule, empowering you to balance life's demands, while also maintaining your ability to serve clients. Learn more about our total rewards at https://rsmus.com/careers/working-at-rsm/benefits.
All applicants will receive consideration for employment as RSM does not tolerate discrimination and/or harassment based on race; color; creed; sincerely held religious beliefs, practices or observances; sex (including pregnancy or disabilities related to nursing); gender; sexual orientation; HIV Status; national origin; ancestry; familial or marital status; age; physical or mental disability; citizenship; political affiliation; medical condition (including family and medical leave); domestic violence victim status; past, current or prospective service in the US uniformed service; US Military/Veteran status; pre-disposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Accommodation for applicants with disabilities is available upon request in connection with the recruitment process and/or employment/partnership. RSM is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to complete an application, interview, or otherwise participate in the recruiting process, please call us at 800-274-3978 or send us an email at careers@rsmus.com.
RSM does not intend to hire entry level candidates who will require sponsorship now OR in the future (i.e. F-1 visa holders). If you are a recent U.S. college / university graduate possessing 1-2 years of progressive and relevant work experience in a same or similar role to the one for which you are applying, excluding internships, you may be eligible for hire as an experienced associate.
RSM will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records. For those living in California or applying to a position in California, please click here for additional information.
At RSM, an employee's pay at any point in their career is intended to reflect their experiences, performance, and skills for their current role. The salary range (or starting rate for interns and associates) for this role represents numerous factors considered in the hiring decisions including, but not limited to, education, skills, work experience, certifications, location, etc. As such, pay for the successful candidate(s) could fall anywhere within the stated range.
Compensation Range: $77,700 - $146,900
Individuals selected for this role will be eligible for a discretionary bonus based on firm and individual performance.

RSM International logo

About RSM International

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

RSM International is a leading global network of audit, tax, and consulting firms. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, US, the firm focuses on providing an exceptional range of professional services to empower clients to move forward with confidence. RSM International was established in 1964 and has since grown to encompass firms in more than 120 countries. The firm's mission is guided by a deep understanding of what clients need to help drive their businesses forward, combined with the international reach of RSM firms worldwide.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

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