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Defense Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC

Manage relationships with contractors and coordinate closely with Navier's defense advisory board to develop strategy to expand Navier's defense footprint and navigate complex procurement landscapes.

Navier

Head of Defense

Washington, DC · On-site

Manage relationships with contractors and coordinate closely with Navier's defense advisory board to develop strategy to expand Navier's defense footprint and navigate complex procurement landscapes.

Avenue Technologies Company

Lead DevSecOps Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

S. defense contractor. What You'll Do On Site Means they will be working at a a major U.S Defense contractor Facility.At a major U.S Defense contractor, the foundation of everything we do is rooted ...

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How much do defense contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for defense contractor in the United States is $27.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a defense contractor do?

A Defense Contractor is a private company or individual that provides products or services to a nation's military. These can include weapons, vehicles, technology, logistics, and consulting services. They work closely with government agencies to support defense and national security efforts. Contractors must comply with strict regulations and often require security clearances.

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

To thrive as a Defense Contractor, you need expertise in project management, engineering or technical disciplines, and a thorough understanding of government procurement processes, often supported by a relevant degree and security clearance. Familiarity with defense standards, specialized software tools (like CAD or project management suites), and compliance with regulations such as ITAR or DFARS is crucial. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you navigate complex projects and collaborate with multiple stakeholders. These abilities are essential for delivering mission-critical solutions while adhering to strict security and contractual requirements.

What are some typical challenges faced by defense contractors, and how can they be managed?

Defense Contractors often navigate strict regulatory requirements, complex project specifications, and tight deadlines, all while maintaining high standards for security and quality. Adaptability and proactive communication are essential to successfully manage frequent changes in project scope or government priorities. Collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams, including military personnel and subcontractors, is also a key aspect of the job. Building strong organizational and problem-solving skills can help you meet these challenges and contribute to the success of mission-oriented projects.

How do you become a defense contractor?

To become a defense contractor, individuals typically need a strong background in engineering, science, or technology, along with relevant security clearances. Gaining experience through military service, government agencies, or defense-related industries, and understanding government contracting processes, are also important steps.

How much do defense contractors get paid?

Defense contractors' salaries vary based on experience, role, and location, but entry-level positions typically start around $60,000 to $80,000 annually. Experienced professionals with specialized skills or security clearances can earn over $100,000 per year, with some senior roles exceeding $150,000. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and overtime pay, especially for those working on complex projects or in high-security environments.
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defense contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Contractor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,990 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

General Consideration - Future Opportunities at MSI Defense

MSI Defense Solutions

Mooresville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

About MSI Defense SolutionsMSI Defense Solutions is a growing defense contractor supporting U.S. government and allied customers. Our work spans mobility and ground vehicle platforms, weapons integration, and counter-UAS / air defense systems. MSI offers a collaborative, hands-on environment w...

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