Defence Contract Jobs in Leeds
Safety & Engineering Specialist (Defence equipment / explosives)
Posted 4 days ago by GIOS Technology
We are hiring for Safety & Engineering Specialist (Defence equipment / explosives)Location : Hybrid 1 day per week i...
- Rate £63 per hour
- Category Not specified
- Work type Hybrid
- Location Greater Bristol Area, United Kingdom
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Analyste Embargos Métiers RETAIL - Conformité - La Defense, Ile de France, Franc...
Posted 1 week ago by SOCIETE GENERALE
Vos missions au quotidienL'Analyste Embargos Métiers contribue à la conduite globale de la filière Embargos et Sanctions...
- Rate Not specified
- Category Outside
- Work type Not specified
- Location Paris, France
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Sign UpRéférent conformité protection clientèle - Conformité - La Defense, Ile de Franc...
Posted 2 weeks ago by SOCIETE GENERALE
Vos missions au quotidienVous êtes intéressé par les sujets de conformité ? Vous avez envie de rejoindre une équipe réce...
- Rate Not specified
- Category Outside
- Work type Not specified
- Location Paris, France
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About Our Defence Contract Roles in Leeds
What does a defence contractor do?
The defence sector is a significant employer of contractors in the UK, engaging professionals across engineering, technology, project management, commercial, intelligence analysis, and specialist technical disciplines to support the delivery of complex and long-running defence programmes. Contract roles arise most commonly within the Ministry of Defence, defence primes such as BAE Systems, Babcock, Leonardo, and QinetiQ, and the broader defence supply chain, where the volume and complexity of programmes require flexible specialist resource that cannot be maintained entirely within a permanent workforce. The security-sensitive nature of much defence work means that contractors operating in this sector must typically hold or be willing to obtain appropriate security clearances, most commonly SC or DV depending on the role.
The skills most valued in defence contracting reflect the sector's programme-intensive and technology-heavy character. Systems engineers with experience on complex defence platforms, project and programme managers familiar with CADMID or PRINCE2/MSP delivery methodologies, and commercial specialists with MoD procurement and DEFCONS experience are in consistent demand. Defence technology contractors, including software engineers, cybersecurity specialists, and data scientists, increasingly find opportunities as the MoD accelerates its digital and AI transformation agenda. The ability to navigate the specific governance, compliance, and security requirements of the defence environment is an essential differentiator for contractors entering the sector for the first time.
What is the market like for defence contractors?
Defence contracting in the UK is underpinned by a substantial and long-term investment programme in the armed forces, with major platforms including Type 26 frigates, Tempest, Ajax, and the nuclear deterrent creating multi-decade pipelines of engineering and programme management contract demand. The government's commitment to increased defence spending, combined with the operational pressure created by the changed security environment in Europe, is driving additional investment and contractor demand across both traditional defence engineering and newer areas including cyber, space, and autonomous systems. Security clearance is a significant entry barrier that constrains supply and supports rates for cleared contractors above those achievable in comparable uncleared roles.
What is the contracting market like in Leeds?
One of the largest financial and legal centres outside London, Leeds generates sustained contractor demand from high street banks, building societies, insurance groups, and national law firms with significant presences in the city. Legal technology, regulatory change, and compliance contracting benefit from this dual concentration in a way few other regional cities can offer. The NHS and broader public sector add volume across programme delivery, clinical systems, and business analysis. Around the South Bank area, a growing pool of technology firms is gradually broadening the types of roles available beyond the traditional finance and professional services core. For contractors seeking a lower cost base without a significant reduction in opportunity, Leeds is one of the most credible alternatives to London in the north of England.
How much do defence contractors usually earn in Leeds?
Contract rates for defence roles in Leeds typically range from £450 to £850 per day, depending on the scope of the role, required expertise, and the delivery expectations of the engagement.
How many defence vacancies in Leeds are there on Quality Contracts?
Over the past twelve months, we have tracked over 530 defence contract roles across the site, with Leeds contributing substantially. Data reviewed up to July 2026.