Defense Industry Careers Overview

Defense contractor jobs offer a path for transitioning service members to apply their experience in the civilian workforce. For those leaving the military, understanding this industry could be the first step toward a new career. Some choose to pursue college degrees in one of the career options below, while others try to find opportunities that match existing skillsets.

Defense Industry Careers

The landscape is dominated by some key companies (see below), each with unique specialties and cultures. They offer roles that mirror many military occupational specialties. Navigating the hiring process requires a specific approach to resume writing, networking, and interviewing, where your military background can be a distinct advantage.

Major Defense Contractors

The defense industry includes many companies, but a handful of prime contractors receive the majority of government funding and drive innovation.

Lockheed Martin is a global company with operations organized into four main business segments: Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control, Rotary/Mission Systems, and Space.

The Aeronautics division produces fighter aircraft, including the F-35 Lightning II and the F-22 Raptor. The company is a major employer of engineers, software developers, and program managers. Lockheed Martin frequently emphasizes its commitment to hiring veterans and has robust internal support networks for them.

Northrop Grumman is a leader in aerospace, defense, and cyberspace. The company is known for working on advanced aircraft, such as the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, and its contributions to space exploration, including the James Webb Space Telescope.

Northrop Grumman also works on autonomous systems, C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), and space technology. They actively recruit individuals with experience in systems engineering, cybersecurity, and intelligence analysis. A background in signals intelligence or unmanned systems is highly valued.

Raytheon Technologies was formed by a merger of Raytheon Company and United Technologies Corporation. Business units include Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon. Raytheon focuses on missile defense systems, precision weapons, sensors, and cyber solutions.

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design and manufacture of aircraft engines. Collins Aerospace provides avionics and other aerospace components. The company seeks talent in electrical engineering, software development, and supply chain management.

General Dynamics has a portfolio that includes business aviation, combat vehicles, weapons systems, and shipbuilding. General Dynamics Land Systems is the primary manufacturer of the M1 Abrams tank and the Stryker combat vehicle.

Its Electric Boat division is a primary builder of submarines for the U.S. Navy. The company also has a large information technology (IT) and services division that supports government clients. Veterans with experience in armor, naval operations, and military IT infrastructure will find their skills in demand.

Defense Industry Jobs

The roles available within defense contracting are varied and extend far beyond front-line technology, as we explore below. Remember that not all defense contractor jobs are specifically technology-related. There are management jobs, support service roles, and public relations options.

Engineering and Technical Roles

Aerospace engineers design the next generation of aircraft and spacecraft. Systems engineers oversee the lifecycle of a complex product, from conception to disposal.

Software engineers write the code that runs flight controls to secure communication networks. Electrical engineers design the systems for advanced electronics. A background in a technical military field provides a foundation in these areas.

Cybersecurity and Information Technology

Cybersecurity professionals are in constant demand. Roles include security analysts, information assurance specialists, and penetration testers who identify vulnerabilities. Many of these require a security clearance. IT specialists are also needed to manage the vast internal networks and data centers these companies operate.

Program and Project Management

Program managers are responsible for the budget, schedule, and performance of large-scale government contracts. A Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can supplement military experience and make a candidate more competitive.

Logistics and Supply Chain

Logisticians and supply chain managers handle the procurement of raw materials. They are also responsible for the management of inventory, and the distribution of finished goods. Military personnel with a background in logistics, supply, or transportation are well-suited for these roles.

How to Navigate the Defense Industry Hiring Process

An active security clearance is perhaps the most valuable asset a veteran can bring when applying for a defense contractor job. The process for a company to sponsor a new clearance is expensive and time-consuming. Hiring someone who already holds a clearance saves the company months of waiting and thousands of dollars.

On your resume, state your clearance level and the date of your last investigation clearly at the top. Understand the difference between having an active clearance and being “clearable.” An active clearance means you can start work on a classified project almost immediately.

Hiring managers at civilian companies may not be familiar with military jargon or the scope of your responsibilities. You must translate your experience into terms they can understand. Instead of listing your duties, describe your accomplishments using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Do not send the same generic resume to every job opening. Analyze the job description and tailor your resume accordingly. Be sure to highlight the skills and experiences that match specific job requirements listed in the job description.

Use the same keywords found in the job posting to ensure your application passes through the Applicant Tracking System (ATS), the software most large companies use to screen candidates. A tailored application demonstrates a genuine interest in the specific role.

Networking remains an effective way to find opportunities. Use LinkedIn to connect with recruiters and employees at your target companies.

Attend military-specific job fairs, either in person or online. These events provide a great opportunity to speak directly with recruiters who are actively seeking to hire veterans. Prepare a brief “elevator pitch” that summarizes your background, skills, and career goals.