Space and Defense Jobs: Colorado Springs' Biggest Employer Base
Published: June 17, 2026 | By LocalJobPage Team
Colorado Springs, CO — Look up at Pikes Peak, then look around the city, and you will see why the Springs is one of the country's great military and space towns. Between the bases, the commands, and the contractors that support them, defense and space form the backbone of the local economy, and the job market.
From cleared contractor jobs to roles that welcome transitioning service members, the Springs is a launchpad for defense and space careers.
A military and space powerhouse
Colorado Springs hosts Fort Carson, Peterson and Schriever Space Force Bases, Cheyenne Mountain, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and major commands including U.S. Space Command. Add big contractors like Lockheed Martin and a long list of defense and space firms, and you have a workforce ecosystem unlike almost anywhere else.
The jobs go far beyond uniforms
This is not only about active-duty service. Contractors hire engineers, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, satellite and ground-systems technicians, logistics and supply staff, program managers, and administrative support. Many roles pair with the bases but are civilian jobs, and a lot of them pay very well.
A natural fit for veterans and military spouses
With so many transitioning service members and military families in town, the Springs is one of the best places in the country to translate military experience into a civilian career. Employers here understand clearances, military skill sets, and the value of veteran reliability. Military spouses also find a market used to flexible, transferable careers.
What it means for job seekers
Explore the range of defense and space roles:
- Lockheed Martin jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
- Defense contractor jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
- Satellite and ground systems jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
- Cleared jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
- Logistics and supply jobs in Colorado Springs, CO
How to break in
If you hold a security clearance, lead with it, because it is one of the most valuable things on a Springs resume. Highlight certifications, technical skills, and any military or contractor background. Transitioning service members should start applying before separation and tap base transition programs. And do not overlook support and logistics roles as a way in.
Job seekers can set up free Colorado Springs job alerts for defense and space roles. Contractors hiring across the region can post jobs on LocalJobPage to reach the city's cleared, experienced workforce.
From the gates of Fort Carson to the satellite operations on the east side, space and defense keep the Springs working. For job seekers, it is one of the most reliable career launchpads in Colorado.