If you’re career options in government, you may not have considered federal contracting—but you should. Federal contractors work with the U.S. government to provide goods and services in industries ranging from defense to healthcare to technology. These jobs offer competitive salaries, valuable experience, and, in many cases, strong job security. In this article, we’ll walk you through the world of federal contracting, how to get hired, and what kind of stability you can expect in this career path.
What is Federal Contracting?
Federal contractors are private companies or individuals who enter into legally binding agreements with the U.S. government to provide specific goods or services. Some of the biggest names in federal contracting include Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Boeing, Deloitte, and Amazon Web Services. Contractors are responsible for building military aircraft, managing cybersecurity systems, conducting medical research, and much more.
Federal contracts are divided into two main categories:
- Prime Contractors – These companies have direct contracts with the federal government.
- Subcontractors – These companies support prime contractors by fulfilling parts of larger contracts.
Why Consider a Career with a Federal Contractor?
If you’re looking for a stable and rewarding career, federal contracting is worth exploring. Here’s why:
1. High Demand & Competitive Salaries
The U.S. government spends hundreds of billions of dollars annually on federal contracts. In FY 2023, contract spending reached approximately $750 billion, with sectors like defense, IT, and healthcare receiving the biggest shares. This means contractors are constantly looking for skilled professionals, and they pay well to attract top talent.
2. Strong Job Security
Unlike private-sector jobs that can be heavily impacted by economic downturns, federal contracting tends to be more stable. Government projects often span multiple years, ensuring steady employment for workers. Additionally, national security, infrastructure, and healthcare needs don’t go away, making these roles essential.
3. Career Growth & Government Exposure
Working with a federal contractor allows you to gain experience with government agencies like the Department of Defense (DoD), NASA, or the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This can open doors to future federal employment or leadership roles within the private sector.
How to Land a Job with a Federal Contractor
1. Identify Companies That Hire Federal Contractors
Start by researching companies that regularly win federal contracts. Some of the biggest players include:
- Technology & Cybersecurity: Amazon Web Services, Leidos, Booz Allen Hamilton
- Defense & Aerospace: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics
- Healthcare & Research: McKesson, Pfizer, UnitedHealth Group
- Consulting & Professional Services: Deloitte, Accenture Federal, KPMG
Resources like USA Spending.gov and the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) can help you track government contract spending and identify potential employers.
2. Search for Job Openings
Once you’ve identified potential employers, look for openings on:
- Company Career Pages – Check the hiring sections of contractor websites.
- Job Boards – LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor frequently list contractor jobs.
- ClearanceJobs.com – Great for positions requiring a security clearance.
3. Build the Right Skillset
Many federal contracting jobs require specialized skills, such as:
- Cybersecurity & IT – Consider certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP.
- Engineering & Science – A degree in aerospace, civil engineering, or biotech can be advantageous.
- Project Management & Consulting – Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) are valuable.
- Security Clearance – Many jobs require at least a Secret or Top Secret clearance, which employers may help you obtain.
4. Network & Use Referrals
Building connections in the federal contracting space can help you land interviews. Attend industry conferences, join professional associations like the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA), and connect with hiring managers on LinkedIn.
5. Prepare for the Hiring Process
- Background Checks & Drug Tests – Be ready for thorough screenings.
- Security Clearance Process – If required, expect an in-depth background investigation.
- Behavioral & Technical Interviews – Show that you understand government regulations and industry best practices.
What About Job Security in Federal Contracting?
One of the biggest perks of federal contracting is job security—but it comes with some caveats. Here’s what you need to know:
- Long-Term Contracts = Stability – Many federal contracts last multiple years, meaning companies need employees to complete projects.
- Government Budgets Drive Hiring – Jobs in defense, healthcare, and IT remain steady due to ongoing government funding.
- Renewal & Recompete Risks – Some contracts need to be renewed, and if a different company wins the contract, employees may need to transition to a new employer.
- Security Clearance = In-Demand Skill – If you hold a security clearance, you are highly valuable, and many companies will seek to retain or hire you.
Final Thoughts
Federal contracting offers college graduates a pathway to well-paying, stable jobs that contribute to critical government missions. Whether you’re interested in cybersecurity, engineering, healthcare, or consulting, there’s likely a contracting job that fits your skill set.
By researching employers, building the right skills, and networking strategically, you can secure a rewarding career in this growing field. If you’re ready to explore opportunities, start browsing job boards and company websites today—your future in federal contracting might be just a few clicks away!