ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aero It Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Hypersonic Systems Engineer Level IV

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$190K - $262K/yr

... IT and cybersecurity solutions. * Collaborative Environment: Be part of a dynamic team that thrives ... Lead aero-thermo-structural analysis of hypersonic vehicles and associated launch systems * Perform ...

Electra Aero

Systems Test Manager

Manassas, VA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

This is a foundational role: you're not inheriting infrastructure, you're creating it. You'll own everything from instrumentation to simulation labs, and you'll carry full budget and headcount ...

All JobsAero It JobsAero It Jobs in Reston, VA

Aero It information

What is an Aero IT professional?

Aero IT professionals are specialists who manage and support information technology systems within the aviation and aerospace industries. Their responsibilities typically include maintaining aircraft communication networks, ensuring cybersecurity, handling flight operations software, and supporting ground-based IT infrastructure. They play a critical role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of both aviation systems and corporate IT environments. Aero IT professionals might work for airlines, airports, aircraft manufacturers, or aerospace technology companies.

How does an Aero IT professional typically collaborate with engineering and operations teams in the aviation industry?

Aero IT professionals play a crucial role in bridging the gap between aviation technology systems and operational needs. They often work closely with engineering teams to implement and maintain software for aircraft diagnostics, maintenance tracking, and flight operations. Collaboration may involve translating technical requirements, troubleshooting IT-related issues in avionics or ground systems, and ensuring that all digital processes comply with industry regulations. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Aero IT specialists frequently coordinate with both technical and non-technical staff to support safe and efficient operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aero IT professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aero IT professional, you need a solid understanding of aerospace systems, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and often a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-specific software such as CAD/CAM tools, avionics systems, and compliance with certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and problem-solving skills are crucial for collaborating with engineering teams and managing complex technical challenges. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure the safety, efficiency, and reliability of aerospace operations supported by robust and secure IT systems.

What is the difference between Aero It vs Aero Technician?

AspectAero ItAero Technician
CertificationsFAA certifications, IT-related certificationsFAA certifications, maintenance licenses
Work EnvironmentIT systems, aircraft maintenance areasAircraft hangars, maintenance facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAirlines, aerospace companies, maintenance providersAircraft maintenance, repair shops, airlines

While Aero It focuses on managing and supporting aircraft IT systems and software, Aero Technicians are primarily involved in hands-on aircraft maintenance and repairs. Both roles require FAA certifications and are essential in the aerospace industry, but Aero It professionals work more with technology infrastructure, whereas Aero Technicians handle physical aircraft repairs.

Aero It jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aero It job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Business Development Manager, Defense

Whisper Aero

Washington, DC • Hybrid

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Our Company

Whisper Aero is pioneering a more compelling and connected future by delivering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient propulsion solutions. Today's open rotor propulsion systems are challenged by safety, noise, and performance limitations at all scales. Whisper's breakthrough technologies allow aircraft to fly anywhere at any time without disturbing communities, at greater speeds, and with incredible improvements in efficiency and cost. Their innovations also enable a new generation of air moving products that can blend into the soundscapes of daily life. Whisper was founded by industry veterans, Mark Moore and Ian Villa, and continues to innovate a future that's as considerate as it is compelling with its world-class team in Tennessee. 

About the Role 

Whisper Aero is seeking a Business Development Manager, Defense in either Nashville, TN, Washington, D.C., or hybrid (1 week onsite per month in Crossville or Nashville, TN). The Business Development Manager, Defense at Whisper Aero focuses on driving growth in the defense sector by identifying opportunities, managing key relationships, and promoting our innovative technologies. You will work closely with internal teams and external stakeholders to align our products with defense industry needs, directly contributing to our market expansion and business strategies.  

What You'll Do 

  • Identify, pursue, and capture new business opportunities within the defense sector, aligning with Whisper Aero's growth objectives.   
  • Build and maintain relationships with key defense stakeholders, including government entities, end users, and contractors, to foster trust and collaboration. 
  • Collaborate with internal product and engineering teams, such as product and engineering, to ensure alignment between customer needs, product offerings, and messaging. 
  • Attend major government customer meetings and engagements to ensure contracts awarded stay awarded or expanded and expectations that are set can remain upheld. 
  • Provide feedback to design and product teams for collateral that would be used for customer engagements (e.g., handouts, presentations, booth designs, webpages, social media) 
  • Facilitate discussions with our supply chain and engineering team to assist in supplier/customer outreach, partnership discussions, contract execution (MSA, NDA, SoW, etc.) 
  • Compose and support the development and submission of compelling proposals for government contract opportunities, ensuring compliance with regulations and alignment with company goals. 
  • Represent Whisper Aero to external stakeholders by articulating our value proposition, competitive edge, and technological advancements through presentations and discussions at company events and industry events. 
  • Contribute to the development of business strategies and roadmaps for the defense sector, informed by market trends, customer feedback, and industry insights. 
  • Monitor defense policy, budgets, and relevant Department of War (DoW) programs to identify emerging opportunities and stay ahead of industry trends.  
  • Develop stakeholder mappings for our defense programs inclusive of contacts at the DoW, suppliers, customers, competitors. 

Basic Qualifications   

  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) related field required. 
  • Must meet U.S. Person status. 
  • Minimum of five years of experience in defense-related business development, program management, or acquisition roles. 
  • Experience working with government contracting teams and working on government contracts of various types 
  • Experience negotiating data assertions with a knowledge of the differences between SBIR data rights, GPR, or other types of data rights 
  • Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance. 
  • Strong understanding of defense policies, budget cycles, and the defense/national security industry. 
  • Experience with DoW programs, platforms, and enabling technologies. 
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders, including government entities and industry partners. 
  • Willingness and ability to travel (approximately 25% to 50% of work time).  

Bonus Qualifications 

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree. 
  • Existing TS/SCI security clearance. 
  • Experience with government small business contracting, including Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR), Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR), Other Transaction Authority (OTA) processes. 
  • Familiarity with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or piloted aircraft platforms. 
  • Established relationships with Program Executive Offices (PEOs) and decision-makers within the DoD.  
  • Familiarity developing workflows with AI tools like Claude Code, Codex (not just ChatGPT) 
Benefits: 
  • Top-tier Benefits: Employee-first focused comprehensive benefits package, minimum of 90% employer-paid plans for employees and dependents with optional HSA/FSA account offerings
  • PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal days
  • Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee's no-income-tax life
  • End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
  • We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
  • 401(k) 
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Professional Development Stipend

Whisper Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Whisper Aero also participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.