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Federal Contractor Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Design Release Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$38 - $43.50/hr

Alten USA is a federal contractor subject to the requirements of the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Executive Order 11246. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and ...

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Federal Contractor information

See Michigan salary details

$21.5K

$83.2K

$132.6K

How much do federal contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal contractor in Michigan is $83,179.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,446.00 and $114,601.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Federal contractors can earn $10,000 or more per month in roles such as project managers, cybersecurity specialists, or technical consultants, often requiring specialized skills, certifications, or experience rather than a degree. These positions typically involve high responsibility, security clearances, or technical expertise, and may require working in government or defense-related environments.

What Is a Federal Contractor?

A federal contractor is any worker or organization that enters into a contract to provide labor, services, products, or materials to a government department or agency. Federal contractors can be individuals or companies. Federal contractors are required to follow several federal hiring and labor laws to qualify for and maintain federal contracts. These laws include equal opportunity hiring, disability employment, and safety compliance. The duties of a federal contractor vary significantly depending on the type of work they perform.

How much do federal contractors get paid?

Federal contractors' pay varies depending on the role, experience, and contract requirements, but salaries typically range from $50,000 to over $150,000 annually. Compensation may include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans, and some positions require security clearances or specialized skills.

What jobs are considered federal contractors?

Federal contractors are individuals or companies that perform work or provide services under a contract with a federal government agency. These jobs can include administrative, technical, construction, IT, and consulting roles, often requiring compliance with specific regulations and security clearances. Being a federal contractor typically involves working on government projects and adhering to federal standards and procedures.

What is the difference between Federal Contractor vs Federal Employee?

AspectFederal ContractorFederal Employee
CredentialsVaries; often requires specialized skills, security clearancesRequires federal hiring process, often with competitive exams and clearances
Work EnvironmentContract-based, project-specific, often private sector settingsGovernment offices, agencies, or facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate companies contracted by federal agenciesU.S. government agencies and departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding contract roles vs permanent positionsDifferences between government employment types

Federal Contractors work on specific projects for the government under contract, often in private sector settings, while Federal Employees are permanent staff working directly for government agencies. Both roles may require security clearances and specialized skills, but their employment terms and work environments differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by federal contractors when working with government agencies?

Federal contractors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex compliance requirements, meeting strict deadlines, and adapting to changes in contract scope or government regulations. Maintaining clear communication with contracting officers and ensuring timely submission of documentation are essential for success. Additionally, understanding the nuances of government procurement processes and staying updated on policy changes can help minimize potential setbacks and ensure project continuity.

How do you get into federal contracting?

To become a federal contractor, a business must register in the System for Award Management (SAM), obtain necessary certifications such as Small Business or Minority-Owned Business status if applicable, and identify contracting opportunities through federal procurement websites like FedBizOpps or the GSA Schedule. Building relationships with government agencies and understanding federal procurement processes are also essential steps.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Federal Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Contractor, you need a strong understanding of federal regulations, proposal writing, and compliance, often supported by relevant experience or a degree in a related field. Familiarity with government procurement systems such as SAM.gov, contract management software, and security clearance requirements is typically necessary. Exceptional attention to detail, adaptability, and strong communication skills help build trust and ensure effective collaboration with government agencies. These competencies are crucial for navigating complex contracting processes, maintaining compliance, and delivering high-quality results on government projects.

What are federal contractors?

Federal contractors are private businesses or individuals that enter into agreements with the U.S. federal government to provide goods or services. These contracts can range from supplying office equipment to constructing buildings or offering consulting services. Federal contractors must comply with specific regulations and requirements, such as adhering to labor standards, security clearances, and equal employment opportunity laws. Working as a federal contractor can offer steady business, but also comes with strict oversight and reporting responsibilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Contractor jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Federal Contractor jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Federal Contractor jobs in Michigan? For Federal Contractor jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Federal Contractor jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Contractor jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Federal Contractor jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Federal Contractor job openings:
Senior Manager, Federal Capture and Contracting, UAS

Senior Manager, Federal Capture and Contracting, UAS

Airspace Link, Inc.

Detroit, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Description:


About Airspace Link

Airspace Link is a fast-growing Series B startup shaping the future of drone operations. We provide innovative software solutions that enable safe, scalable, and integrated drone flights in communities nationwide. As an FAA-approved provider of LAANC airspace checks and B4UFLY safety checks, we serve as the air traffic control system for drones, supporting cities, states, and federal agencies while enabling private industry to thrive in the emerging drone economy.


The Opportunity

Airspace Link is seeking a Sr. Manager, Federal Capture & Contracting to build on the foundation of our federal business—starting with securing the right IDIQ vehicles, Partnerships, BPAs, and federal contract pathwaysneeded to scale. This is a pivotal, first-of-its-kind hire responsible for developing Airspace Link’s federal business, owning capture efforts, and positioning the company to compete for long-term federal opportunities across agencies including DHS, DOW, DOT, and others advancing airspace safety, UAS integration, and national security missions.


You will lead our entry into federal markets by identifying the right acquisition pathways, shaping our early proposals, building relationships with contracting officers and program teams, and establishing the infrastructure required to pursue and win federal work at scale.


This role is ideal for someone who combines federal capture expertise, contracting strategy, and hands-on proposal experience—a builder who wants to help a fast-moving startup shape the future of UAS, airspace management, and federal aviation technology.


Responsibilities


Federal Contracting & IDIQ Strategy

· Develop and execute Airspace Link’s federal contracting strategy with an emphasis on accessing or establishing IDIQs, GWACs, BPAs, OTAs, and other contract vehicles aligned to our offerings.

· Build and maintain a prioritized pipeline of near-term and long-term federal contract vehicle opportunities.

· Lead pre-RFP shaping, capture planning, teaming strategies, and readiness activities.


Capture Management

· Serve as the strategic owner of federal capture efforts—engaging decision-makers, understanding agency mission priorities, and influencing acquisition strategies before solicitations are released.

· Build relationships with contracting officers, program managers, and technical leads across relevant agencies.

· Develop and refine Airspace Link’s federal value proposition, capability statements, and agency-specific positioning.


Proposal Leadership

· Working with an internal Proposal Team, lead the preparation of compliant and compelling White Papers, RFIs, IDIQ submissions, and RFP responses.

· Coordinate cross-functionally with Product, Engineering, Partnerships, Customer Success, and Leadership to craft proposals, pricing, and technical volumes.

· Build an internal library of federal proposal assets to support repeatable, scalable submissions.


Partnerships & Teaming

· Identify and establish teaming agreements with primes, integrators, and federal contractors to strengthen proposals and expand access to vehicles.

· Partner with industry associations, innovation hubs, and federal initiatives relevant to UAS, airspace, defense, and infrastructure.


Travel Required: Up to 30%

Position Type: Full-Time, 40 hours a week

Location: Hybrid or Remote


Why Join Us?

  • Impact: Work with pioneering drone technology and be part of the next era of digital infrastructure.
  • Growth: Be part of a rapidly growing company with ample opportunities to grow professionally.
  • Benefits & Equity: Competitive salary, commission structure, and benefits package, including stock options, health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Requirements:

· 7+ years of experience in federal capture, contracting, program management, or business development within defense, homeland security, aviation, transportation, or GovTech.

· Undestanding of UAS, aviation, airspace management, or related technologies (experience in an adjacent field such as GIS, mobility, or defense technology is a plus).

· Direct experience winning IDIQs, GWACs, BPAs, or OTA opportunities—ideally for a SaaS or technology company.

· Deep understanding of federal acquisition processes and available federal funding (FAR, procurement cycles, timelines, compliance requirements).

· Existing networks or working familiarity with agencies such as DHS, FAA, DoD (AFWERX, DIU, etc.), DOT, DOJ, or technology infrastructure/security programs.

· Ability to translate complex technology into mission-aligned value for federal stakeholders.

· A builder mentality—comfortable creating processes from scratch, operating independently, and working cross-functionally in a startup environment.

· Proven track record influencing acquisition pathways and driving federal pursuit from concept to submission.