What it is
Defense and government contracting covers work that supports government missions, either as an employee of a federal agency or as an employee of a private company that serves one. Federal civilian jobs are posted by agencies, often through USAJOBS. Defense contractor roles are offered by independent companies that hold contracts with government customers.
Cleared positions are roles that require a security clearance, which is a government determination that a person may access sensitive information. Employers or government sponsors generally start the clearance process for a specific role. You usually can't apply for a clearance on your own. Requirements, levels and timelines vary by position and agency.
The work spans many fields, such as logistics, information technology, engineering, administration, program support, maintenance, security and training. Many veterans find the mission focus and structure familiar. Which roles fit depends on your background, interests and the requirements of each employer.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many service members have looked at federal civilian employment after leaving the military. Federal hiring follows its own structured process, with detailed job announcements, application questions and specific document requirements. Veterans' preference may apply in some federal hiring. Confirm your eligibility and the required paperwork on USAJOBS or with the Department of Labor (VETS).
Others have moved into defense contractor roles, where hiring looks more like the private sector. Contractors often list openings on their own career pages and may recruit through job fairs, networking and referrals. Job titles and qualifications vary a lot between companies and contracts.
Transition programs and benefits are also a traditional part of the picture. Examples include the Department of Defense SkillBridge program, GI Bill education benefits and VA programs. Eligibility and availability differ, so confirm details with your command, the VA or the program itself.
How the right employer may help
The right employer may help you understand how your military experience can translate to a civilian position. A good employer or recruiter can explain the duties, the qualifications, whether a clearance is involved and who sponsors it. They may also describe how the hiring steps typically work. They can't guarantee an outcome.
A first conversation is usually a chance to share your background and ask questions. Expect to talk about your experience, your interests and any current or past clearance. Have your service records ready, such as your DD-214 if you have one, along with a resume. Hiring practices differ by employer and agency.
Useful questions to ask include these. Is a clearance required, and who sponsors it? What are the location and work-setting expectations? Does the role have licensing or certification requirements, and who confirms them? What does the hiring process look like, and what support exists for veterans? Employers should evaluate candidates on job-related qualifications and follow equal opportunity rules.
The bigger picture
Changing careers after service can affect more than your income. It can touch your sense of purpose, your routines and your relationships. Some people feel energized by a familiar mission. Others need time to adjust to a new culture. Waiting on a clearance or a hiring decision can also be stressful, so it helps to plan for patience and keep other options open.
Looking after your whole self during a transition matters. That can mean steady sleep, time with family and friends, and support from peers or mentors when you need it. If things feel heavy, the 988 Lifeline is available, and veterans can press 1 after dialing. Providers.plus is one resource for finding wellness support. Many people find that a decision made with clear information brings more peace of mind.
Keep in mind
- Never pay to apply for a job, and never share bank details before a real offer. Legitimate federal and contractor employers don't charge application fees.
- Clearance requirements, hiring steps and timelines vary by agency and employer, and nothing here guarantees a job, interview, salary or clearance.
- Confirm veterans' preference, SkillBridge, GI Bill and VA benefit eligibility with USAJOBS, the VA, the Department of Labor (VETS) or your command.
- Some roles, such as security, law enforcement or firearms-related work, have state or federal licensing rules. Confirm them with the relevant agency, state board or program. Firearms-industry employers also follow ATF and state rules, and safety always comes first.
Employers
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Frequently asked questions
What are the best jobs for veterans in defense and government contracting?
There isn't one best job, because fit depends on your skills, interests and experience. Common fields include logistics, IT, engineering, administration, maintenance, training and security. Browse listings and compare the qualifications each employer asks for.
Do I need a security clearance to work in defense contracting?
Not always. Many roles don't require one, while cleared positions do. For cleared roles, an employer or government sponsor typically starts the process, and requirements vary by position. Ask each employer whether a clearance is needed and who sponsors it.
How do I find security clearance jobs?
Security clearance jobs are usually listed on federal job boards, defense contractor career pages and general job sites. Listings state the clearance level the role requires. If you hold an active clearance, say so clearly, and confirm its current status with your security office.
How does federal hiring work for veterans?
Federal hiring generally runs through agency announcements, often on USAJOBS. Applicants answer questions and submit required documents. Veterans' preference may apply in some cases. Confirm your eligibility and requirements on USAJOBS or with the Department of Labor (VETS).
Can SkillBridge help me get a defense or government job?
SkillBridge may let eligible service members gain civilian work experience with an industry partner near the end of service. It doesn't guarantee employment. Eligibility and approval depend on your command, so confirm details with them.
How can I avoid job scams when looking for veteran jobs?
Never pay a fee to apply, and don't share bank details before a real offer. Check that the employer is real by visiting its official website directly. Be cautious of offers that seem too easy or that push you to act quickly.
Educational resource. 2A Careers shares general information and connects people with independent employers. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.