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Government Defense Contractor Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Senior Indirect Buyer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$103 - $125/hr

... government contracting compliance. You have * Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business ... Experience in aerospace, defense, precision machining, additive, or advanced manufacturing ...

Koniag Technology and Infrastructure Solutions, a Koniag Government Services company, is seeking ... Must be available to work as a civilian contractor on a military installation during all required ...

Maintenance Staff

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$25.96 - $39.42/hr

S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering ... As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and ...

Maintenance Staff

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$25.96 - $39.42/hr

S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering ... As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and ...

Maintenance Staff

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$25.96 - $39.42/hr

S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering ... As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and ...

... government site management, environmental restoration, defense, space, energy, and national and ... Reviews contractor or contract required certification structures and schedules for the construction ...

Showing results 21-40

Government Defense Contractor information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$8

$26

$45

How much do government defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for government defense contractor in Oak Ridge, TN is $26.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a government defense contractor?

A Government Defense Contractor is a private company or individual hired by the government to provide products or services related to national defense and security. These contractors work on a wide range of projects, including the development of military equipment, cybersecurity systems, research, and logistical support. Defense contractors must meet strict government requirements and often work closely with agencies such as the Department of Defense. Their work is crucial in supporting military operations and maintaining national security.

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

To thrive as a Government Defense Contractor, you need expertise in defense industry standards, project management, and government procurement procedures, often supported by security clearances and relevant technical or engineering degrees. Familiarity with federal acquisition systems, compliance tools, and contract management software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills are crucial for collaborating with government clients and interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure compliance, successful project execution, and the ability to meet stringent government requirements in a highly regulated environment.

What are some common challenges faced by government defense contractors when working on classified projects?

Government defense contractors often work on projects that require strict adherence to security protocols and compliance with federal regulations. One of the main challenges is ensuring that all work is conducted within secure environments, which can limit communication and collaboration with external partners. Additionally, meeting tight deadlines while navigating complex approval processes and adapting to evolving government requirements can be demanding. Successfully balancing these factors requires a strong attention to detail, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of contract guidelines and security procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Government Defense Contractor jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For Government Defense Contractor jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Government Defense Contractor job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,441 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Program Manager - Directed Energy (Mgr Programs 2) - 29362 with Security Clearance

HII Mission Technologies

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$120K - $188K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Requisition Number: 29362 Required Travel: 11 - 25% Employment Type: Full Time/Salaried/Exempt Anticipated Salary Range: $120,044.00 - $188,000.00 Security Clearance: Ability to Obtain Level of Experience: Mid This opportunity resides with Warfare Systems (WS), a business group within HII's Mission Technologies division. Warfare Systems comprises cyber and mission IT; electronic warfare; and C5ISR systems. HII works within our nation's intelligence and cyber operations communities to defend our interests in cyberspace and anticipate emerging threats. Our capabilities in cybersecurity, network architecture, reverse engineering, software and hardware development uniquely enable us to support sensitive missions for the U.S. military and federal agency partners. Leadership at HII - Mission Technologies
HII's Leadership Capability Framework defines the standard of excellence expected of all leaders across Mission Technologies. Leaders are accountable for modeling these capabilities and building them within their teams: * Know & Grow Your People - Develop talent, empower teams, and build an inclusive environment. * Build Relationships - Strengthen trust, collaboration, and cross-functional partnerships. * Take Ownership - Drive accountability, execution excellence, and results. * Customer First - Anticipate mission needs and deliver value to our partners. * Shape the Future - Inspire innovation and align work with strategic priorities. * Act with Urgency - Make informed decisions and move with purpose. These capabilities define how leaders inspire teams, deliver results, and shape the future of Mission Job Description At Mission Technologies, a divison of HII, we aren't just following the curve; we're defining it. We are looking for a visionary Program Manager to bridge the gap between the research/prototype and battlefield deployment. Our philosophy is built on a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). We don't lock ourselves into proprietary silos; we curate and integrate the absolute best industry technology to ensure our warfighters never face a fair fight. With our new state-of-the-art integration and test facilities, we have the infrastructure-now we need the leadership. As the Program Manager for Directed Energy, you will be the primary architect of program success, overseeing the lifecycle of advanced laser and microwave systems. This isn't just about oversight; it's about program execution in a high-tech environment. This pivotal role is involved in all phases of the program lifecycle, from proposal development and contract negotation to system integration, testing, and delivery. The successful candidate will serve as the primary interface with government customers and stakeholders, fostering strong relationships and ensuring program success. The ideal candidate will have the following: * Proven track record of managing high-technology programs from development to deployment * Familiarity with Directed Energy systems, including HEL or High-Power Microwave (HPM) technologies * An understanding of defense contracting and proposal development * The ability to inspire diverse engineering and production teams in a fast-paced, "dynamic-is-the-norm" environment * Must reside within 50 miles of the following locations or a willingness to relocate Knoxville, TN within 90 - 120 days This is more than a career move; it is an opportunity to work alongside industry-leading experts on technology that is redefining national security. You will have the resources of a titan and the agility of an innovator to build, test, and deploy the next generation of defense. Essential Job Responsibilities • Program Leadership and Execution: Lead and direct cross-functional teams, including R&D, engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless program execution. • Cost, Schedule, and Performance Management: Oversee and manage program cost, schedule, and technical performance, implementing Earned Value Management (EVM) systems as required, communicating internally to ensure leadership alignment. • Customer Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary point of contact for customers, leading program reviews and effectively communicating program status and technical progress. • Contract Management: Manage contract negotiations, modifications, and ensure adherence to the scope of work. • Risk and Opportunity Management: Proactively identify and mitigate program risks while identifying and pursuing opportunities for program growth. • Supplier Management: Oversee key suppliers and subcontractors to ensure they meet program objectives. • Strategic Planning: Contribute to the strategic direction of the directed energy portfolio, supporting business development and capture efforts for new opportunities. • Team Development: Mentor and develop program team members, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Minimum Qualifications * 6 years relevant progressive experience with Bachelors in related field; 4 years relevant progressive experience with Masters in related field; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 10 years relevant progressive experience. * A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in program management, with a significant portion in the aerospace and defense industry. * Demonstrated experience managing complex technical product development programs, preferably in directed energy, lasers, or related fields. * Proven ability to manage large-scale programs, including those with significant budgets. * Experience working with Department of Defense (DoD) customers. * Understanding of EVMS, risk management, scheduling, and budget management. * Must be able to obtain and maintain a US level Secret clearance. Preferred Requirements • PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. • A strong background in system integration and testing of advanced technologies. • Strong understanding of government contracting, FAR/DFARS, and ITAR regulations. • Experience with high-energy laser weapon systems. • Completed DAU courses and / or credentials. • Experience managing programs with EVMS. • Experience as program management of DoD RDT&E / R&D programs. • Understanding of all subsystems associated with high energy laser systems. • Strong relationships with directed energy customers and industry players. • Conversant in the history of directed energy systems. • Experience with directed energy systems from R&D to field support. • An active US level Secret clearance. Physical Requirements May be required to visit job site in an industrial or shipboard environment. Normally not required to lift more than 40 pounds higher than three feet above feet/floor level. The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills. Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. Do You Need Assistance? If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.