### Overview:
A career in Defense involves working in various capacities within the defense industry, which encompasses companies and organizations involved in the development, manufacturing, and maintenance of military equipment, technology, and services. Professionals in the defense sector contribute to national security by supporting defense programs, systems, and operations.
### Information:
**Product Groups:**
1. **Aerospace and Defense Equipment**: Includes aircraft, helicopters, missiles, rockets, drones, armored vehicles, naval vessels, and other military hardware.
2. **Defense Electronics and Systems**: Involves electronic systems, sensors, communications equipment, radar systems, navigation systems, and other technological solutions for defense applications.
3. **Cybersecurity and Information Warfare**: Addresses threats and vulnerabilities in cyberspace, including cybersecurity measures, information assurance, cryptography, and cyber warfare capabilities.
4. **Logistics and Support Services**: Provides logistical support, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for military equipment and systems.
5. **Training and Simulation**: Develops training programs, simulators, and virtual reality technologies to train military personnel for combat and operations.
**Industry Groups:**
– Aerospace and Defense Contractors
– Defense Technology Companies
– Government Agencies (e.g., Department of Defense)
– Defense Research and Development Organizations
– Military Services (e.g., Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps)
– Defense Consulting Firms
**Prerequisites:**
– Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, business, finance, economics, or related fields.
– Strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills.
– Knowledge of defense and security policies, regulations, and technologies.
– Previous internships, military experience, or coursework related to defense are advantageous.
**Exit Opportunities:**
– Government Contracting
– Defense Consulting
– Aerospace and Defense Investment Banking
– Defense Policy and Analysis
– Civilian roles in government agencies
– Transition to other industries such as technology, engineering, or consulting
**Top Firms:**
While defense careers are often associated with government agencies and military organizations, some top defense contractors and technology companies include:
1. Lockheed Martin Corporation
2. Boeing Company
3. Northrop Grumman Corporation
4. Raytheon Technologies Corporation
5. General Dynamics Corporation
6. BAE Systems plc
7. L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
8. Leidos Holdings, Inc.
9. SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation)
10. Booz Allen Hamilton
**Recruitment Timeline:**
Recruitment timelines for defense internships and full-time roles may vary depending on the organization and government contracting cycle. Some companies may recruit for undergraduate summer internships during the fall or spring semester of the previous year, while others may have ongoing hiring needs throughout the year.
**Compensation Ranges:**
Compensation in the defense industry can vary based on factors such as company size, location, role, and level of experience. Generally, entry-level salaries for undergraduate positions range from $50,000 to $80,000, with potential bonuses and benefits.
