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Remote Defense Contractor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PDS Defense, Inc. is seeking a Remote Aviation Supply Chain Analyst 5, in Cedar Rapids, IA. Job ID ... VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity ...

Remote Defense Contractor information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$42

$133

How much do remote defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote defense contractor in Iowa is $42.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $67.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Remote Defense Contractors, and how can they be managed?

Remote Defense Contractors often face challenges such as maintaining clear communication with geographically dispersed teams, ensuring the proper handling of sensitive information outside of traditional secure facilities, and managing complex project requirements independently. To address these issues, most organizations provide comprehensive onboarding for secure remote systems, regular virtual meetings, and detailed project management protocols. Building strong working relationships with colleagues online and staying proactive in seeking clarification or support can help overcome these hurdles. Staying organized and adhering strictly to security protocols are also essential for success in this unique remote setting.

What is a Remote Defense Contractor job?

A Remote Defense Contractor is a professional who provides services to defense organizations while working off-site, often from home or a designated remote location. These roles can include cybersecurity, intelligence analysis, software development, engineering, or logistics support. Contractors typically work with government agencies or defense companies on specialized projects, ensuring security and compliance with regulations. Strong communication, adherence to clearance requirements, and secure work environments are essential for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Remote Defense Contractor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Defense Contractor, you need a strong background in defense or engineering disciplines, security clearance, and relevant experience in military or government projects. Familiarity with classified communication platforms, project management software, and certifications like DoD 8570 or PMP is often required. Strong self-motivation, excellent verbal and written communication, and the ability to collaborate effectively in a distributed environment are important soft skills. These competencies ensure secure, effective project delivery in a highly regulated industry where remote work relies on both technical and interpersonal excellence.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Defense Contractor jobs in Iowa? For Remote Defense Contractor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Remote Defense Contractor job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,311 per year, or $42.9 per hour.
DSM Remote Pilot Operator

DSM Remote Pilot Operator

Science Applications International Corporation

Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 205 rated it services


Job description


  • PLEASE NOTE: This is NOT a UAS, UAV, RPV, or DRONE pilot position.

We are looking for Casual, Remote Pilot Operator (RPO) candidates to join the SAIC Controller Training Solutions (CTS) team at the Des Moines Intl ATCT/TRACON (DSM) in Des Moines, IA, supporting air traffic controller training services for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Job Description:
The RPO plays the role of the pilot and other controllers in the Air Traffic Controller training simulator. The RPO operates a combination of a simulated radar display and voice communication system to simulate the actions and communication of pilots and remote ATC facilities during medium and high-fidelity training exercises. RPOs receive voice commands from students, input proper entries into the automated system to simulate pilot actions, translate displayed information into appropriate ATC terminology, and respond to the student via the VCS utilizing proper phraseology.
The candidate will be required to complete the following certifications: Classroom (pass test on airspace and procedures) and Lab (perform as a Remote Pilot Operator on all positions).
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for ensuring that air traffic control specialists provide the flying public with a high level of safety and professionalism. A well-trained Air Traffic Control (ATC) workforce plays an essential role in fulfilling this responsibility. The FAA employs more than 14,000 air traffic controllers. They work in air traffic facilities of varying sizes, safely separating more than 50,000 aircraft in the National Airspace System (NAS) each day.
To provide such air traffic services, the FAA trains new air traffic control specialists and provides recurrent training to current air traffic control specialists. The FAA utilizes Contractor-provided instructional services at FAA ATC facilities throughout the U.S. and its Territories to ensure these training needs are met. The scope of the contractor-provided services includes all training and training program support to successfully train and prepare students to become fully certified air traffic controllers. SAIC must provide training and training related support services as required for all types and levels of ATC facilities.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • US Citizenship is required with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance
  • Candidates for this position must have a minimum of a high school diploma (or equivalent) and demonstrate basic computer proficiency. Candidates must possess an ability to read and interpret materials such as diagrams and manuals and have the ability to speak clearly and be understood

Desired Skills and Experience:
  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team (Multimedia Developers, Quality Assurance, Instructions System Designers, Subject Matter Experts, Instructors)
  • Experience and certification in ATC Tower, TRACON or En Route simulation lab is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective oral and written communications skills
  • Working knowledge of the FAAO JO 7110.65 is strongly desired, but not required
  • Effective team building skills
  • MS Office Suite Proficiency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization of current technologic tools (tablets, notebooks, applications, etc.)
  • Basic familiarization or experience with pilot/controller communications or phraseology

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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