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Small Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our Company

Mechanical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Signalink a dynamic, small defense contractor committed to excellence in providing advanced defense solutions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Mechanical Engineer to join our team.

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Our Company

Electrical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Signalink a dynamic, small defense contractor committed to excellence in providing advanced defense solutions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Electrical Engineer to join our team.

Our Company

Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Signalink a dynamic, small defense contractor committed to excellence in providing advanced defense solutions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Systems Engineer to join our team.

Our Company

Senior Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

Signalink a dynamic, small defense contractor committed to excellence in providing advanced defense solutions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Senior Systems Engineer to join our team.

Acuity Innovations LLC

Test Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Acuity Innovations LLC is a small, defense contracting company that provides enterprise architecture, solution design, digital engineering, defensive cyberspace operations, system integration, and ...

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Small Defense Contractor information

See salary details

$21.5K

$82.6K

$142.5K

How much do small defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for small defense contractor in the United States is $82,588.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a small defense contractor?

A Small Defense Contractor job involves working for a private company that provides goods or services to the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) on a smaller scale. These companies support military operations by supplying technology, equipment, logistics, cybersecurity, and other essential services. Employees may work in engineering, project management, procurement, or compliance to meet strict government regulations. This role requires knowledge of defense contracting procedures, security clearances, and adherence to federal acquisition guidelines. It offers opportunities to contribute to national security while working within a competitive business environment.

What are some typical challenges a small defense contractor might face in this role?

Small Defense Contractors commonly face challenges such as navigating complex government regulations, managing tight project deadlines, and maintaining strict security standards. As resources are often more limited compared to larger firms, employees frequently wear multiple hats and must adapt quickly to changing client requirements. Collaboration within small teams and clear communication with government clients are essential for successfully delivering on contracts. However, these challenges also present valuable opportunities to gain a broad range of experience and develop specialized skills in a dynamic and impactful industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the small defense contractor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Small Defense Contractor, you need strong project management skills, a solid understanding of defense industry standards, and relevant technical expertise in fields like engineering or information technology. Familiarity with government contracting processes, compliance systems such as FAR/DFARS, and security clearances are often required. Exceptional attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate with both clients and internal teams are key soft skills for success. These competencies ensure the delivery of compliant, high-quality solutions while navigating the complexities and regulations unique to the defense sector.

What cities are hiring for Small Defense Contractor jobs?

Cities with the most Small Defense Contractor job openings:

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

The most popular types of Small Defense Contractor jobs are:

What states have the most Small Defense Contractor jobs?

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

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

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

Small Defense Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,588 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Anchor Innovation, Inc - SkillBridge Job Training Program

Anchor Innovation, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description:

Anchor Innovation, Inc. provides structured internship and training opportunities for transitioning service members to gain hands-on experience in small business operations within the defense industry. Participants will receive guided exposure to key functional areas, including program support, contract administration, financial management, and customer coordination. Through mentorship, hands-on work, and clear training goals, participants will learn how a small defense contractor operates, supports government customers, and manages internal business processes. The program is designed to build foundational skills that support a successful transition from military service to civilian careers in operations, program management, and business support roles.


ABOUT THE JOB

The SkillBridge participant will serve in a structured internship role, working alongside senior leadership to gain exposure to the day-to-day operations of a small defense contracting business. The participant will observe and assist with business functions, including program support, contract administration, financial tracking, and customer coordination. Under the guidance of the company President and assigned mentor, the participant will gain insight into executive-level decision-making, business strategy, and operational management. The internship is designed to provide practical experience and professional development in a controlled training environment, preparing the participant for transition into civilian roles in business operations and program support


RESPONSIBILITIES?
  • Serve in a structured internship role, working alongside senior leadership to gain exposure to day-to-day operations of a small defense contracting business.
  • Observe and assist with business functions including program support, contract administration, financial tracking, and customer coordination.
  • Gain insight into executive-level decision-making, business strategy, and operational management.
QUALIFICATIONS?
  • Transitioning service members eligible to participate in the SkillBridge program in accordance with their service branch requirements.
  • Demonstrate an interest in business operations, program support, or government contracting.
  • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment.
  • Familiarity with administrative processes, logistics, or operational coordination is beneficial but not required.
  • Motivated to learn, able to work in a team environment, and willing to engage in a structured training program.
ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY

Applicants should be transitioning service members eligible to participate in the SkillBridge program in accordance with their service branch requirements. Candidates should demonstrate an interest in business operations, program support, or government contracting. Preferred candidates will have strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment. Familiarity with administrative processes, logistics, or operational coordination is beneficial but not required. Candidates should be motivated to learn, able to work in a team environment, and willing to engage in a structured training program designed to support transition into civilian careers.

ELIGIBLE SERVICE BRANCHES

All Services

BENEFITS?
  • Hands-on experience in small business operations within the defense industry.
  • Guided exposure to key functional areas such as program support, contract administration, financial management, and customer coordination.
  • Mentorship and professional development in a controlled training environment.
Requirements: