ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Private Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SOSi

Program Manager with Security Clearance

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$217K - $283K/yr

... private defense and government solutions business specializing in advanced technology systems and ... Manage all contractor personnel and resources. * Integrate processes and workloads across all ...

SOSi

Program Manager

Honolulu, HI

... private defense and government solutions business specializing in advanced technology systems and ... Manage all contractor personnel and resources. * Integrate processes and workloads across all ...

SOSi

Program Manager

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$217K - $283K/yr

... private defense and government solutions business specializing in advanced technology systems and ... Manage all contractor personnel and resources. * Integrate processes and workloads across all ...

SOSi

Program Manager

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$217K - $283K/yr

... private defense and government solutions business specializing in advanced technology systems and ... Manage all contractor personnel and resources. * Integrate processes and workloads across all ...

UG Solutions

Interpreter

$22.50 - $29.75/hr

S.-based private security company specializing in high-risk environments. We provide mission ... defense contractor setting.

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment JobsMilitary JobsPrivate Defense Contractor Jobs

Private Defense Contractor information

See salary details

$23K

$86.4K

$144K

How much do private defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for private defense contractor in the United States is $86,381.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $114,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a private defense contractor do?

A Private Defense Contractor is a civilian or company that provides military, security, or logistical services to government agencies or private organizations. Their work can include intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, equipment maintenance, or direct operational support in conflict zones. These contractors are hired to supplement military operations, offering expertise and support that may not be available within the armed forces. They must comply with government regulations and ethical standards while operating in sensitive or high-risk environments.

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

To thrive as a Private Defense Contractor, you need a background in military, law enforcement, or security operations, often supported by relevant field experience and security clearances. Proficiency in tactical equipment, firearms, surveillance technology, and adherence to government or industry certifications like DoD contractor standards is essential. Strong situational awareness, adaptability, and clear communication are critical soft skills for navigating high-risk and rapidly changing environments. These competencies ensure excellent operational performance, compliance with security protocols, and effective collaboration with clients and team members.

What are common work environments and team structures for private defense contractors?

Private Defense Contractors typically operate in a wide range of environments, from secure government facilities and overseas military bases to remote or high-risk locations. The role often involves working within multidisciplinary teams composed of fellow contractors, ex-military personnel, engineers, and security specialists, requiring a high level of coordination and trust. Daily responsibilities may include security assessments, operational planning, and direct protection or logistics support. Team structures are usually project-based, with clear leadership hierarchies and strict adherence to operational protocols. This variety in work environments and team dynamics offers valuable experience and the opportunity to develop specialized expertise in the defense and security sector.

How much do private defense contractors get paid?

Private defense contractors' salaries vary widely based on experience, specialization, and security clearance, but they typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually. Higher-paying roles often require specialized skills, military or law enforcement experience, and the ability to work in high-risk environments.

How to become a private defense contractor?

To become a private defense contractor, individuals typically need military or law enforcement experience, relevant security clearances, and specialized skills such as firearms training, logistics, or cybersecurity. Obtaining certifications like the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or Tactical certifications can enhance prospects, and candidates often work with security firms or government agencies to gain relevant experience.
More about Private Defense Contractor jobs

What cities are hiring for Private Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities with the most Private Defense Contractor job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Private Defense Contractor jobs?

The most popular types of Private Defense Contractor jobs are:

What states have the most Private Defense Contractor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Private Defense Contractor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Private Defense Contractor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Private Defense Contractor jobs are:

Private Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,381 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Electrical Manager (Private Defense)

B.L. Harbert International

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

BL Harbert International rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Primary Responsibilities

· Review electrical designs, specifications, and construction documents for accuracy, compliance, and constructability

· Coordinate with architects, engineers, designers, subcontractors, and client-side subject matter experts throughout project execution

· Review and evaluate electrical equipment submittal packages to ensure compliance with project requirements and operational intent

· Provide technical recommendations and approvals for equipment procurement and release

· Lead coordination and tracking of long-lead mechanical equipment procurement activities to support overall project schedule objectives

· Support and coordinate commissioning, startup, functional performance testing, and system turnover activities

· Identify and troubleshoot design conflicts, field installation issues, and construction-related electrical problems

· Support RFI development, design clarifications, and coordination efforts between project stakeholders

· Participate in project meetings with owners, consultants, contractors, and federal agencies

· Assist with construction oversight, commissioning activities, startup, testing, and system turnover

· Monitor installation quality and ensure adherence to project specifications, NEC requirements, and applicable codes

· Support schedule coordination and planning related to electrical system installation and procurement

---

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related technical field preferred

· Minimum 5 years of experience in electrical construction, MEP coordination, or electrical engineering

· Strong understanding of power distribution systems, switchgear, generators, UPS systems, lighting, controls, and low-voltage systems

· Experience reviewing electrical equipment submittals and construction documents

· Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

· Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities in both design and field construction environments

· Familiarity with federal construction standards and procedures preferred

· Design-build project experience is a plus

· Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred but not required

---

Desired Experience

· Federal construction projects (USACE, NAVFAC, VA, GSA, DoD, etc.)

· MEP coordination and construction administration

· Electrical equipment procurement and technical review

· Commissioning and startup support

· Experience with coordination drawings, BIM/VDC processes, and multidisciplinary MEP coordination preferred.

· Field construction support and issue resolution

· Experience with mission critical, healthcare, laboratory, or secure facility projects is a plus

---

Skills & Competencies

· Strong technical and analytical capabilities

· Excellent communication and coordination skills

· Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities

· Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills

· Ability to collaborate effectively with project teams and client representatives

---

Position Type

Full-Time

Location

BLHI Corporate – Birmingham or Huntsville

Compensation

Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.

B. L. Harbert International is an EOE/Vets/Disabilities

What BL Harbert International employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply