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Entry Level Government Contracting Jobs in California

Tecolote Research

Contracts Business Associate

Goleta, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

... Government Contracting as a career. Based on Company growth and requirements, the entry-level Business Associate will support the Corporate Headquarters Contracts Organization. Responsibilities

Clear Cloud Solutions Inc.

Be Seen First

Accounting Clerk

Upland, CA · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

This is a true entry-level position and an ideal first step for a college student or recent ... No prior construction or government contracting accounting experience is required. We will teach ...

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General Atomics

Accountant I

Poway, CA

Prior billing experience with Cost Reimbursable, Fixed Fee, T&M and Progress Payments in government contracting environment desired. * Must have a proven understanding of accounting principles ...

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All JobsGovernment Contracting JobsEntry Level Government Contracting JobsEntry Level Government Contracting Jobs in California

Entry Level Government Contracting information

See California salary details

$22.5K

$56.5K

$124.9K

How much do entry level government contracting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level government contracting in California is $56,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,700.00 and $61,201.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level government contracting job?

An Entry Level Government Contracting job involves assisting with the procurement and management of government contracts. Responsibilities may include researching regulations, preparing proposals, ensuring compliance, and coordinating with vendors. These roles are often found in government agencies or private companies that work with federal, state, or local governments. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and knowledge of government procurement processes are beneficial. Many positions provide on-the-job training to help employees understand contract procedures and regulatory requirements.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an entry level government contracting position?

To thrive in an Entry Level Government Contracting role, you need a solid understanding of basic procurement principles, attention to detail, and often a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field. Familiarity with contract management systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and sometimes government-specific tools like SAM.gov or FAR is beneficial. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and a willingness to learn complex regulations will set you apart. These abilities are crucial because government contracting requires accuracy, compliance, and clear collaboration with both internal teams and external agencies.

What career paths are available for someone starting in an entry level government contracting position?

Entry Level Government Contracting roles offer great opportunities for career development, with common paths leading to positions such as Contract Specialist, Procurement Analyst, or Contract Administrator. As you gain experience and familiarity with federal acquisition regulations, you may find opportunities to specialize in areas like proposal management, compliance, or cost analysis. Many employers offer training programs and can assist with certifications (such as Certified Federal Contracts Manager) that further your expertise. Advancement often involves taking on more complex contracts, leading teams, or moving into supervisory or management roles. This progression allows you to build valuable skills while making a tangible impact in the public sector.

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Contracting jobs in California? The most popular types of Government Contracting jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Government Contracting jobs in California? For Entry Level Government Contracting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Government Contracting jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Government Contracting jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Government Contracting jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Government Contracting job openings:
Entry Level Government Contracting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Government Contracting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,513 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Contract Specialist (Entry Level)

Skookum Contract Services

Alameda, CA • On-site

$75K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Contract Specialist - Entry Level

Location: Alameda, California (US Coast Guard Island)

Type: Exempt

Compensation: $75,000-$83,000/yr. (Competitive wages dependent upon experience)

Work Schedule: Full-time, Day Shift

Benefits: Tessera is proud to offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package to our eligible part-time and full-time employees.

Full-Time benefits of a Contract Specialist - Entry-level at Tessera include:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) retirement plan, Life & Short-Term Disability Insurance

  • Flexible Spending Accounts for both medical and dependent care

  • 11 paid federal holidays, accrual of 12 paid days of vacation at the start of employment, paid sick leave

  • Potential shared earning bonus

  • Tuition assistance is available after 1 year of employment and potential scholarships for qualified dependents

  • Professional development, certifications, and training opportunities

  • Verizon wireless discount

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and an engaging wellness program

  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility for full-time employees

Tessera is a national non-profit, government contractor that is dedicated to "Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities" through hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our mission-focused culture, our Core Values, Diversity, Partnership, Commitment, Integrity, and Quality, and our dedication to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Tessera is seeking a competent and dedicated Contract Specialist - Entry Level with a can-do attitude.

Typical duties include but are not limited to:

  • Communicate with technical experts and other USCG contracting personnel to assist with processing procurement packages for commercial and non-commercial supplies and services below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT), which is currently $250K.

  • Identify and utilize most appropriate method for simplified acquisitions that are compliant with all Federal, DHS, and Coast Guard acquisition regulations and policies.

  • Draft solicitations and synopsize for response for both commercial and non-commercial supplies and services below the SAT.

  • Perform post-award acquisition duties, to include managing performance, paying invoices and closing out purchase and task orders.

  • Communicate with USCG Program Management personnel about the details of technical requirements acquisitions and provide advice, guidance and counsel on how to handle complex acquisition contracts, modifications and processes.

  • Interpret and implement the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and applicable agency directives.

  • Provide excellent customer service and maintain a professional appearance.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of one (1) year experience working with Federal, other Government (State or Local), or Commercial Acquisition preferred. Equivalent combination of experience and education allowed.

  • Working knowledge and understanding of the FAR preferred or ability to be trained.

  • Experience working with Federal Government Acquisition systems as well as the Federal Procurement Data System - Next Generation (FPDS-NG) preferred or ability to be trained.

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Requirements:

  • Valid state driver license is required with the ability to obtain and maintain coverage by Tessera's insurance carrier.

  • Must be able to obtain and maintain applicable security clearances and installation access. A background check and E-Verify will be conducted for this position.

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Date Posted: 07/27/2026

*** Access to a federal military installation requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, such as a U.S. passport or military ID, in accordance with the REAL ID Act.

Please visit this website for more information: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id.

To Apply: Visit our website at www.tessera.org to complete an application.

Current Employees: need to log into their Workday to apply through the Jobs Hub. Please reach out to your Recruiter if you need assistance.

Tessera is a national non-profit, government contractor that is dedicated to "Creating Opportunities for People with Disabilities" through hiring and supporting individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. We take pride in our mission-focused culture, our Core Values, Diversity, Partnership, Commitment, Integrity, and Quality, and our dedication to providing a safe and respectful work environment to our employees.

Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Tessera is here to help you with the recruitment process.

If you require an accommodation or support, please contact us at

(360) 475-0756 ext. 349, or emailrecruiting@tessera.org.

Tessera is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Women/Minority/Veteran/Disabled - Tessera participates in E-Verify

Apply