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Vp Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

OR

The Vice President, Defense Industrial (Industrial Base) leads our global portfolio focused on the ... and contractor-operated facilities, munitions plants, and other defense manufacturing ...

Logistics Management Institute

Overview LMI is seeking an experienced Chief Technology Officer, Vice President (Defense market) with demonstrated performance leading the technology solutioning across our entire Defense Market. LMI ...

RENK America

Vice President Finance

Muskegon, MI

The Vice President of Finance serves as the senior financial leader for a U.S. RENK subsidiary and ... S. defense contracting regulations (e.g., FAR/DFARS where applicable). * Ensure procedures and ...

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All JobsVp Defense Contractor Jobs

Vp Defense Contractor information

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$43.5K

$157.5K

$277.5K

How much do vp defense contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for vp defense contractor in the United States is $157,532.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $190,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a VP Defense Contractor do?

A VP Defense Contractor is a senior executive responsible for overseeing major aspects of a defense contracting company, such as business development, client relations, program delivery, and compliance with government regulations. They lead teams that secure and manage contracts with military or government agencies, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. Additionally, they play a strategic role in shaping the company's growth, managing risk, and maintaining strong relationships with key clients and stakeholders in the defense sector.

How does the role of a VP Defense Contractor typically collaborate with government agencies and internal teams?

As a VP Defense Contractor, you will regularly liaise with government agencies to ensure compliance with regulations, clarify contract requirements, and report on project progress. Internally, you will lead cross-functional teams—including engineering, legal, and business development—to align project deliverables with contractual obligations and organizational goals. Effective communication and relationship management skills are essential, as you’ll often bridge the gap between client expectations and your company’s operational capabilities. This collaborative environment offers opportunities to shape strategic direction and foster innovation within your teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a VP Defense Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a VP Defense Contractor, you need extensive experience in defense industry operations, program management, and a relevant degree, often accompanied by security clearance. Familiarity with defense acquisition systems, compliance frameworks (like ITAR and DFARS), and project management tools is typical, along with knowledge of government contracting processes. Strategic leadership, negotiation, and strong interpersonal skills set top performers apart in this high-stakes environment. These competencies ensure effective contract execution, regulatory compliance, and the ability to lead teams in delivering complex defense solutions.

What is the difference between Vp Defense Contractor vs Program Manager?

AspectVp Defense ContractorProgram Manager
CredentialsOften requires security clearances, industry certifications (e.g., PMP), and relevant defense experienceTypically holds PMP or similar project management certifications, with security clearances preferred
Work EnvironmentCorporate or government defense contractor settings, overseeing multiple projectsProject-focused environment, managing specific defense programs within organizations
Employer & Industry UsageDefense contractors, government agencies, aerospace firmsDefense contractors, government agencies, aerospace companies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in defense contractingManaging defense projects and programs

The Vp Defense Contractor typically holds a higher strategic leadership role overseeing multiple projects and contracts, while a Program Manager focuses on managing specific defense programs. Both roles require relevant certifications and security clearances, but their scope and responsibilities differ within the defense industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Contractor jobs? The most popular types of Defense Contractor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Vp Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $157,532 per year, or $75.7 per hour.

Vice President, Defense

SERVA Group Downhole Technologies

Athens, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary: This is a high-impact, externally facing role responsible for driving new business growth within the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps. The VP of Defense Business Development will build a qualified pipeline, shape requirements early, and win medium to large-scale defense programs. This is a true hunter role requiring deep relationships, strong capture discipline, and the ability to navigate evolving Department of War (DoW) Acquisition initiatives while still tracking long-cycle DoW procurements. The position includes light oversight of contracts and compliance to ensure alignment between what is sold (bid) and what is delivered.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Business Development & Capture (Primary Focus)

  • Identify, develop, and capture new opportunities across Army and Marine Corps programs
  • Leverage relationships to gain early visibility into requirements, funding, and procurement timelines
  • Lead capture strategy including shaping, positioning, and win execution
  • Build and manage a defendable and realistic $75M–$200M qualified pipeline
  • Drive proposal strategy and support high-probability of Win (PWin) submissions
  • Expand engagement within logistics, transport, and fuel system programs

Customer Engagement & Relationships

  • Serve as the primary external-facing leader for Army and Marine Corps customers
  • Maintain trusted relationships with program managers, contracting officers, and decision-makers
  • Represent EnTrans in customer meetings, program reviews, and industry engagements
  • Position the company for follow-on work and long-term program participation

Strategic Growth & Market Positioning

  • Identify high-value programs aligned with tank trailers, fuel systems, and logistics equipment
  • Advise leadership on market trends, funding priorities, and competitive positioning
  • Develop and execute a focused growth strategy
  • Build partnerships with prime contractors, subcontractors, and US Government (USG) customers

Contracts Oversight & Compliance

  • Support contract strategy to ensure alignment with business development commitments
  • Assist in negotiations related to scope, pricing, and delivery
  • Ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS requirement
  • Partner internally to protect margins and execution feasibility

Program Alignment

  • Ensure smooth transition from capture to execution for awarded programs
  • Align internal teams to meet customer expectations and delivery commitments
  • Maintain visibility and professional DoW acquisition counsel to the operations team- into program performance to support long-term growth

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • 10+ years of defense business development or capture experience
  • Established relationships within the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps (required)
  • Proven track record of winning $10M–$50M+ programs
  • Strong understanding of DoD acquisition and funding processes
  • Working knowledge of FAR/DFARS
  • Experience engaging with program offices and contracting teams
  • Strong executive presence and communication skills
  • Active Secret Security Clearance (or ability to obtain a clearance)
  • DoW Acquisition experience, Level III Acquisition Certification preferable

What Success Looks Like

  • Builds a high-quality, fundable pipeline
  • Wins new programs and expands existing contracts
  • Establishes repeatable access within Army and Marine Corps organizations
  • Aligns business development wins with operational execution capabilities

Apply