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Private Defense Contractor Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$46K/yr

... other contracted performed in a commissary. Read the entire announcement before starting the ... Experience can be under other Federal service pay systems, private sector, or military. Example of ...

MD HELICOPTERS LLC

Chief Financial Officer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

Experience with a variety of contract types and customers in government contracting * Experience ... Experience in a privately held or private-equity-backed company. * Aerospace or defense industry ...

MD HELICOPTERS LLC

Chief Financial Officer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

Experience with a variety of contract types and customers in government contracting * Experience ... Experience in a privately held or private-equity-backed company. * Aerospace or defense industry ...

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All JobsPrivate Defense Contractor JobsPrivate Defense Contractor Jobs in Arizona

Private Defense Contractor information

See Arizona salary details

$22.3K

$83.9K

$139.8K

How much do private defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for private defense contractor in Arizona is $83,865.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,340.00 and $111,165.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Private Defense Contractor jobs in Arizona?

For Private Defense Contractor jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Private Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Private Defense Contractor job openings:

Private Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Private Defense Contractor job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,865 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Board Director - Independent Contractor

Rincon Research Corp

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Contractor

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Rincon Research Corporation (RRC) is a vibrant employee-owned organization that conceives, analyzes, designs, implements, and tests solutions for some of the most intriguing Government projects. As a small business headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, we have a history marked by steady growth in both revenue and customers. Our primary business is innovating, developing, and fielding digital signal processing (DSP) products and software solutions for the United States Defense and Intelligence Communities.


RRC seeks a board director to collaborate effectively with other board directors, leverage their expertise to help define our future, develop strategic goals, and enhance our corporate growth. This independent Director position requires an individual with strong business acumen, fiduciary mindset, and understanding of employee ownership structures to help guide our company's strategic direction, while protecting the interests of our employee-owners.


This role is an Independent Contractor.


Key Responsibilities

Fiduciary Oversight

  • Serve as a fiduciary to both the company and the ESOP trust participants
  • Ensure board decisions balance operational excellence with long-term employee-owner interests
  • Oversee compliance with ERISA requirements and ESOP regulations

Strategic Governance

  • Appoint the CEO and other officers of the company as needed
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of the CEO 
  • Participate in strategic planning and major business decisions
  • Provide independent oversight of management performance
  • Review and approve annual budgets, capital expenditures, and major transactions
  • Guide succession planning for key leadership positions

ESOP-Specific Duties

  • Ensure proper communication with employee-owners regarding company performance
  • Monitor ESOP plan administration and participant benefits
  • Evaluate potential transactions affecting employee ownership

Risk Management and Compliance

  • Assess and provide oversight of enterprise risk management framework
  • Ensure adequate internal controls and audit processes
  • Review compliance with debt covenants and banking relationships
  • Monitor legal and regulatory compliance across all business areas

Board Operations

  • Attend regular board meetings (typically 10 per year) and special meetings as needed; some will require travel
  • Serve on board committees as assigned 
  • Review board materials in advance, and come prepared for productive discussions
  • Participate in annual board and director evaluations

 

Required Qualifications

Experience

  • Minimum 10 years of senior executive experience in relevant industry or function
  • CEO experience or Board service involving leading a defense company through a period of meaningful growth
  • Background in finance, operations, strategy, or relevant industry expertise
  • Top Secret Clearable—undergo a background check that covers your personal, financial, criminal, and employment history; US citizenship required


Knowledge and Skills

  • Strong understanding of corporate governance principles
  • Financial literacy and ability to read and interpret financial statements
  • Knowledge of fiduciary responsibilities under ERISA
  • Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities
  • Experience with IC and DoD organizations and acquisition 


Personal Attributes

  • Unquestioned integrity and ethical standards
  • Independent thinking and willingness to challenge management when appropriate
  • Collaborative working style with ability to build consensus
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Commitment to employee ownership philosophy


Independence Requirements

This position requires independence from company management and operations, including:

  • No current or former employment relationship with the company
  • No significant business relationships or transactions with the company
  • No family relationships with any employee or shareholder (current or former)
  • Ability to exercise independent judgment on all board matters


Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous service on a corporate board of directors
  • Experience with ESOP companies, employee ownership, or employee benefit plans
  • CPA, MBA, JD, or other relevant professional credentials
  • Experience in defense contracting sector
  • Knowledge of employee benefits and retirement plan administration
  • Experience with private company governance and stakeholder management


Position Details

  • Location: the role can be executed from any US location, though travel to RRC sites will be required
  • Position type: consultant, with quarterly payments and reimbursement for expenses

 

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

  • Current resume highlighting relevant board and executive experience
  • Cover letter addressing ESOP experience and interest in employee ownership
  • Professional references from previous board service or senior executive roles