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National Defense Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TX Group

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Sales Director - Defense Contracts | CleanTech

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$240K - $300K/yr

S. economic competitiveness and national security. As demand for resilient domestic supply chains continues to grow, the company is seeking an experienced Director, Defense Contracts to lead its ...

TX Group

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Sales Director - Defense Contracts | CleanTech

Washington, DC · On-site

$260K - $300K/yr

S. economic competitiveness and national security. As demand for resilient domestic supply chains continues to grow, the company is seeking an experienced Director, Defense Contracts to lead its ...

TX Group

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Sales Director - Defense Contracts | CleanTech

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$260K - $300K/yr

S. economic competitiveness and national security. As demand for resilient domestic supply chains continues to grow, the company is seeking an experienced Director, Defense Contracts to lead its ...

TX Group

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Sales Director - Defense Contracts | CleanTech

Washington, DC · On-site

$260K - $300K/yr

S. economic competitiveness and national security. As demand for resilient domestic supply chains continues to grow, the company is seeking an experienced Director, Defense Contracts to lead its ...

TX Group

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Sales Director - Defense Contracts | CleanTech

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$240K - $300K/yr

S. economic competitiveness and national security. As demand for resilient domestic supply chains continues to grow, the company is seeking an experienced Director, Defense Contracts to lead its ...

Arc Boat Company

Director, Defense

Torrance, CA · On-site

What we're building The marine industry supports recreation, global commerce, and national defense. And yet it runs on technology that hasn't meaningfully changed in fifty years. Until now. Arc is on ...

TX Group

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Sales Director - Defense Contracts | CleanTech

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$260K - $300K/yr

S. economic competitiveness and national security. As demand for resilient domestic supply chains continues to grow, the company is seeking an experienced Director, Defense Contracts to lead its ...

Arc Boat Company

Director, Defense

Torrance, CA

What we're building The marine industry supports recreation, global commerce, and national defense. And yet it runs on technology that hasn't meaningfully changed in fifty years. Until now. Arc is on ...

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National Defense information

See salary details

$29.5K

$79.1K

$129.5K

How much do national defense jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for national defense in the United States is $79,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between National Defense vs Military Intelligence?

AspectNational DefenseMilitary Intelligence
Required CredentialsSecurity clearances, military or defense-related educationSecurity clearances, intelligence analysis training, military or civilian intelligence certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, military bases, defense facilitiesIntelligence agencies, military units, government offices
Employer & Industry UsageDepartment of Defense, military branches, governmentDefense agencies, intelligence community, military units

National Defense focuses on protecting the country through military operations, policy, and strategic planning. Military Intelligence specializes in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting information to support military decision-making. While both roles serve the defense sector and require security clearances, National Defense has a broader scope, whereas Military Intelligence is more specialized in intelligence activities.

What jobs pay 200,000 a year in the USA?

In the field of national defense, high-paying roles such as senior military officers, defense contractors, and cybersecurity specialists can earn $200,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, security clearances, and extensive experience. Executive leadership roles in defense organizations also typically reach or exceed this salary level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a National Defense role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a National Defense role, you generally need a solid educational background in fields like political science, engineering, or international relations, along with relevant security clearances. Familiarity with intelligence analysis tools, defense communication systems, and sometimes specialized certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or PMP are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork abilities are crucial soft skills for success in high-pressure and collaborative environments. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure national security, effective mission execution, and the ability to adapt to rapidly evolving threats.

What is national defense?

National defense refers to the protection and security of a nation against external threats, such as military attacks or espionage. This typically involves the use of armed forces, intelligence agencies, and strategic planning to safeguard a country's interests and maintain its sovereignty. National defense also includes efforts to prepare for and respond to emergencies, support allies, and participate in international security arrangements. The overall goal is to ensure the safety, stability, and prosperity of the nation and its citizens.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

In the field of national defense, high-paying roles such as private security contractors, specialized technical consultants, or certain military support positions can pay around $4,000 weekly without requiring a college degree, often relying on experience, skills, or certifications. These jobs typically involve skills in security, logistics, or technical operations and may require background checks or specialized training.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of national defense, high-level executive roles such as Defense Contractors, senior military officers, and specialized consultants can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and benefits. These positions often require advanced degrees, security clearances, and extensive experience in defense strategy, technology, or management.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in national defense roles?

Professionals in national defense roles often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, maintaining strict confidentiality, and responding to high-pressure situations. The work environment is typically collaborative, involving coordination with multiple government agencies, military branches, and private contractors. Additionally, national defense roles may require ongoing training and flexible schedules to meet mission-critical objectives, but they also offer unique opportunities for career advancement and skill development within a highly structured system.

What kind of jobs are in the Department of Defense?

Jobs in the Department of Defense include roles such as military personnel, engineers, cybersecurity specialists, intelligence analysts, logistics managers, and administrative staff. These positions often require security clearances, specialized training, and knowledge of defense systems and technologies.
More about National Defense jobs
What cities are hiring for National Defense jobs? Cities with the most National Defense job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense jobs? The most popular types of Defense jobs are:
What states have the most National Defense jobs? States with the most job openings for National Defense jobs include:
National Defense jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Defense job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,083 per year, or $38 per hour.
Research Assistant Professor, Applied National Defense Materials Development

Research Assistant Professor, Applied National Defense Materials Development

University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

The Research and Innovation Division is seeking to advance the science of novel alloy manufacturing in the United States. This is a 9-month, non-tenure track position focused on accelerating the discovery, processing, and deployment of next-generation metal alloys to support national defense and strengthen the domestic industrial base. 

The successful candidate will play a key role in collaborative research efforts with the Memphis Institute for National Defense Sciences (MINDS) and leverage the capabilities of the Rapid Applied Materials Processing (RAMP) Laboratory at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Memphis Detachment.

Applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, unofficial transcript of highest degree earned (or current doctoral progress for ABD candidates), and the names and contact information of three professional references. Screening of applications will begin May 4, 2026 and may continue until the position is filled.

Candidates who are called for an interview must notify the Department of Human Resources in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Applicants must be US citizens and have a PhD in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field. Must have 1 - 2 years' work experience in an industrial setting and have security clearance eligibility.  

Candidates must demonstrate experience in at least two of the following areas:

  • Strong understanding of physical metallurgy principles, including solidification behavior, phase transformations, segregation behavior, crystal structures, and strengthening mechanisms
  • Strong understanding of thermodynamic and kinetic principles governing alloy design and microstructural evolution
  • Knowledge of melting and refining methods, including but not limited to air induction melting, vacuum induction melting (VIM), vacuum arc remelting (VAR), electro-slag remelting (ESR), and ladle metallurgy
  • Knowledge of thermomechanical processing methods such as rolling, forging, and heat treatment
  • Familiarity with materials characterization techniques and the interdependence between microstructure, processing, and material properties
  • Experience with scaled manufacturing involving liquid metal pours in the range of 200 kg to 2000 kg
  • Familiarity with high-energy (9 MeV) nondestructive testing techniques

Evidence of potential ability in research and institutional service. Professional comportment consistent with the Faculty Code of Conduct.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

  • Design and develop advanced materials using computational and experimental approaches
  • Conduct research in casting technologies, thermomechanical processing, and advanced manufacturing techniques (e.g., additive manufacturing)
  • Optimize processing routes to enhance mechanical properties, performance, and manufacturability of materials
  • Utilize RAMP Laboratory capabilities to accelerate materials development cycles and validate scalable processes
  • Perform microstructural characterization and materials testing to inform design improvements
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across academia, government, and industry partners, including MINDS
  • Translate research findings into practical solutions for full-scale manufacturing adoption
  • Document and communicate research outcomes through technical reports, presentations, and publications

Apply