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Government Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

The DPI Group

Administrative Support Specialist

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$24 - $25/hr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Prior Federal, government contractor or similar office experience preferred Interested? Click "Let's Get Started" to Apply Today! About DPI Staffing: DPI Staffing, a division of The DPI Group, offers ...

Columbia Helicopters

Vice President of Sales & Marketing

Aurora, OR · On-site

$180 - $320/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong understanding of heavy-lift operations, rotorcraft markets, aviation services, defense markets, and aviation-related government contracting preferred. * Demonstrated ability to lead sales and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment Contractor JobsGovernment Contractor Jobs in Portland, OR

Government Contractor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$11.7K

$96.5K

$141K

How much do government contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for government contractor in Portland, OR is $96,489.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,500.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a government contractor?

Government contractors are private companies or individuals that enter into agreements with government agencies to provide goods, services, or expertise. These contracts can range from supplying equipment and IT services to construction and consulting projects. Contractors must usually go through a bidding process and adhere to strict regulations and compliance standards. Working as a government contractor can offer stable work opportunities, but also requires navigating complex rules and security clearances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government contractor?

To thrive as a Government Contractor, you need a thorough understanding of federal contracting regulations, proposal development, and project management, often backed by relevant experience or a degree in business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with procurement software (such as SAM.gov and GSA eBuy), contract management systems, and sometimes certifications like PMP or CFCM are typical requirements. Strong negotiation, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help navigate complex government processes and build positive client relationships. These abilities are essential for ensuring contract compliance, securing new opportunities, and successfully delivering projects within regulatory and budgetary constraints.

What are some common challenges faced by government contractors during the contract bidding and execution process?

Government contractors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex procurement regulations, meeting strict compliance requirements, and managing tight deadlines during both bidding and execution phases. Coordination with multiple stakeholders, including government agencies and subcontractors, is crucial and can sometimes lead to communication hurdles. Additionally, adapting to changing priorities or contract modifications while maintaining quality and budget can be demanding, but strong project management skills and a proactive approach help ensure success.

What is the difference between Government Contractor vs Government Employee?

AspectGovernment ContractorGovernment Employee
Credentials/CertificationsVaries by contract; often requires specialized certificationsTypically requires civil service exams and specific qualifications
Work EnvironmentContract-based, project-specific, often external to government facilitiesFederal, state, or local government offices; permanent positions
Employer & Industry UsagePrivate companies hired by government agenciesGovernment agencies and departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, benefits, and job stabilityJob security, benefits, and career progression in government

In summary, Government Contractors work on specific projects for government agencies, often as external hires with contract-based roles. Government Employees are permanent staff members working directly within government agencies, enjoying benefits and job stability. Both roles require relevant credentials but differ mainly in employment status and work environment.

How do you become a government contractor?

To become a government contractor, a company must register in the System for Award Management (SAM), obtain necessary certifications, and identify contracting opportunities through government procurement websites. Successful contractors often need to demonstrate compliance with regulations, possess relevant experience, and may need security clearances depending on the contract scope.

How much do government contractors get paid?

Government contractors' salaries vary widely depending on the role, experience, and contract scope, but they often earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually. Specialized skills, security clearances, and working in high-demand areas can lead to higher compensation. Contract positions may also include benefits such as overtime pay and performance bonuses.

What are the most commonly searched types of Government Contractor jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Government Contractor jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Government Contractor jobs in Portland, OR?

For Government Contractor jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Government Contractor jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Government Contractor jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Government Contractor jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Government Contractor job openings:

Government Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Contractor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,489 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Government Contracts Counseling & Litigation Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel

Portland, OR

$147K - $325K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Government Contracts Counseling & Litigation Associate (Mid-Level)

Locations: Anchorage, AK | Portland, OR | Seattle, WA | Washington, D.C.
Salary Range: $147,000 – $325,000 annually

Direct Counsel is seeking a Government Contracts Counseling & Litigation Associate to join a nationally recognized Am Law firm. This is an exceptional opportunity for a mid-level associate with 3–6 years of experience to work on sophisticated matters involving federal, state, and local procurement, regulatory counseling, grants and cooperative agreements, investigations, and high-stakes government contracts litigation. The role also includes advising Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs) and affiliated entities on issues related to federal contracting and federal assistance programs.

The ideal candidate will have experience counseling government contractors and grant recipients on compliance and regulatory matters, as well as representing clients in disputes arising under government contracts and federal funding programs. This position offers meaningful client contact, hands-on responsibility, and collaboration with attorneys across multiple offices on complex regulatory and litigation matters.

Responsibilities
  • Advise clients on federal procurement regulations, including the FAR, DFARS, and agency supplements
  • Represent clients in bid protests, contract claims, and disputes before the GAO, U.S. Court of Federal Claims, Boards of Contract Appeals, and other tribunals
  • Handle False Claims Act (FCA) investigations, qui tam actions, civil litigation, and related enforcement proceedings
  • Conduct internal investigations and compliance reviews involving federal funding
  • Counsel clients on federal grants and cooperative agreements, including compliance with Uniform Guidance (2 C.F.R. Part 200)
  • Assist with grant lifecycle matters, including proposal strategy, award negotiation, post-award administration, and closeout
  • Advise on grant compliance, audit findings, suspension and debarment risks, and agency oversight matters
  • Support M&A diligence and transactional matters involving government contracts and federal funding
  • Counsel clients on SBA small business programs, including 8(a) Business Development Program requirements, mentor-protégé arrangements, and joint ventures
  • Advise Alaska Native Corporations and affiliated entities on regulatory compliance, eligibility, and structuring considerations
  • Assist with matters involving sole-source procurements, affiliation issues, and federal construction contracting requirements
  • Handle construction-related claims and disputes, including delay, disruption, differing site conditions, changes, and terminations
Qualifications
  • 3–6 years of experience in government contracts and/or federal grants counseling, investigations, or litigation
  • Strong familiarity with federal procurement regulations, including the FAR and DFARS
  • Experience advising on federal financial assistance programs and Uniform Guidance compliance
  • Exposure to SBA small business programs, including 8(a), mentor-protégé arrangements, and joint ventures
  • Excellent research, writing, analytical, and advocacy skills
  • Strong academic credentials
  • Admission to the bar in the jurisdiction where the candidate will practice, or ability to obtain admission promptly
Preferred Experience
  • Experience advising Alaska Native Corporations, tribal entities, or Native-owned businesses
  • Familiarity with federal grant compliance, audit requirements, and cost principles
  • Experience responding to OIG inquiries, agency investigations, or enforcement actions involving federal funding
  • Experience before the GAO, U.S. Court of Federal Claims, or Boards of Contract Appeals
  • Prior government or clerkship experience related to procurement or grants
  • Experience advising on False Claims Act exposure, suspension and debarment, or federal enforcement risks
  • Familiarity with federal construction contracting, FAR Part 36, Davis-Bacon Act compliance, and related construction claims
About the Opportunity

This highly regarded practice advises leading government contractors, nonprofits, universities, small businesses, and ANC enterprises throughout the full lifecycle of federal contracting and grant funding. Associates work closely with experienced practitioners on cutting-edge matters involving regulatory compliance, disputes, investigations, audits, and enforcement proceedings while gaining significant responsibility early in their careers.

Compensation & Benefits

The firm offers a highly competitive compensation structure and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), bonus eligibility, paid time off, disability coverage, life insurance, flexible spending accounts, wellness resources, commuter benefits, and additional voluntary benefit programs.