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Business Development Engineer Jobs in California

Unigen

Business Development Engineer

Newark, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Business Development Engineer Reports To: Product Marketing Director Job Function: Technical Product Marketing Job Overview: The Business Development Engineer will be responsible for identifying ...

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All JobsBusiness Development Engineer JobsBusiness Development Engineer Jobs in California

Business Development Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$94.9K

$151.5K

How much do business development engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for business development engineer in California is $94,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $105,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Business Development Engineer typically collaborate with sales and technical teams to drive business growth?

A Business Development Engineer acts as a bridge between technical and sales teams, translating complex engineering solutions into clear business value for clients. They often join meetings with sales representatives to address technical queries, help identify customer needs, and customize proposals. Collaboration also involves working with product and engineering teams to ensure proposed solutions are feasible and align with organizational capabilities. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to balance both technical detail and strategic business goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Business Development Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Business Development Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, market analysis, and sales strategy, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, data analysis tools, and industry-specific platforms is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, negotiation abilities, and creative problem-solving set top performers apart. These skills and qualities are critical for identifying new opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and driving company growth in a competitive market.

What is the highest salary of BDM?

The highest salary for a Business Development Manager (BDM) can reach up to $150,000 or more annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior BDMs with extensive networks and strategic skills may earn additional bonuses or commissions, increasing total compensation.

What is a Business Development Engineer?

A Business Development Engineer is a professional who combines technical expertise with business acumen to identify growth opportunities for a company. They work to expand the company's market presence, build partnerships, and support the sales process by leveraging their understanding of both engineering and business principles. Their responsibilities often include researching new markets, developing strategies for product or service expansion, and collaborating with technical and sales teams to meet business goals. This role is crucial for companies looking to innovate and stay competitive in technology-driven industries.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

A Business Development Engineer typically does not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles or specialized fields like software engineering, investment banking, or executive management. In engineering, top earners may reach high six-figure salaries with experience, bonuses, and stock options, especially in tech companies or leadership positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior business development engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills, and a track record of successful deals, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in technology or high-growth industries.

What does a business development engineer do?

A business development engineer combines technical knowledge with sales skills to identify and pursue new business opportunities, develop client relationships, and support product growth. They often analyze market trends, create proposals, and collaborate with engineering teams to tailor solutions to customer needs.

What is the difference between Business Development Engineer vs Sales Engineer?

AspectBusiness Development EngineerSales Engineer
Primary FocusIdentifying new business opportunities and strategic partnershipsPresenting technical solutions and closing sales
Required SkillsBusiness acumen, communication, technical knowledgeTechnical expertise, sales skills, customer interaction
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, market research, client meetingsProduct demonstrations, client consultations, technical presentations
Common CertificationsBusiness or engineering degrees, sales certificationsEngineering degrees, technical certifications

While both roles involve client interaction and technical knowledge, Business Development Engineers focus on strategic growth and partnership development, whereas Sales Engineers concentrate on technical sales and product demonstrations. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job focus within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Business Development Engineer jobs in California? For Business Development Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Business Development Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Business Development Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Business Development Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Business Development Engineer job openings:
Business Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Business Development Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,895 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Business Development Engineer

Business Development Engineer

Rock West Composites

San Diego, CA • On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Rock West Composites, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Business Development Engineer.
Rock West Composites, Inc. is an engineering and manufacturing company dedicated to providing innovative solutions for commercial and government customers. This position is located in San Diego, Ca and reports to our VP of Space Structures.
Position Summary:
The Business Development Engineer supports new business growth through technical proposal development, cost estimation oversight, and cross-functional collaboration.
Essential Functions:
Cost Estimating & Analysis
  • Review and validate cost estimates, ensuring alignment with manufacturing methods and pricing strategy
  • Ensure cost build-ups include all key inputs such as materials, tooling, labor, and project complexity
  • Translate project scope and engineering requirements into accurate cost and schedule estimates, including capital expenditures as needed
  • Support estimators in obtaining supplier quotations and lead times for materials, tooling, and components
  • Develop and maintain cost and schedule models, including cost curve analysis based on historical data
  • Establish and support cost tracking processes to monitor project profitability and improve pricing strategies

Proposal & Business Development Support
  • Support RFQ/RFP responses and proposal development activities
  • Maintain accurate tracking and reporting of customer opportunities and proposals
  • Assist with opportunity qualification, planning, scheduling, and budgeting
  • Follow up on inbound leads and support early-stage customer engagement

Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Collaborate with Engineering, Program Management, Operations, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing to develop competitive and executable proposals
  • Coordinate with suppliers to obtain pricing, lead times, and technical input
  • Act as a liaison between internal teams to ensure alignment on scope, cost, and delivery expectations

Customer & Market Support
  • Support development of relationships with customers, prospects, and suppliers
  • Participate in customer meetings, site visits, and trade shows as needed
  • Provide internal feedback on customer requirements, market trends, and competitive insights
  • Support the transition of opportunities from concept through production readiness

Non-Essential Functions:
Other duties as assigned.
Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field
  • 2-3 years of experience in engineering, estimating, manufacturing, or business development support
  • Strong understanding of cost estimating and manufacturing processes
  • Experience working in a cross-functional manufacturing environment
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Perks and Benefits:
  • 100% Employer Paid Medical and Dental
  • Annual Bonus
  • 401K - 5% match
  • Employee Stocks Option Program
  • 9/80 work schedule
  • 8- paid Holidays
  • PTO: Max. 4-weeks after 5 years of employment
  • $2,500 tuition reimbursement

Compensation:
The compensation range for this position falls within $75,000 and $100,000. The final compensation will be determined based on experience, skillset, and other factors permitted by law.
Why should you want to work with us? Rock West Composites cares about our employees! Not only do we offer great benefits to our full-time employees (Medical & Dental 100% employer paid, Vision, Paid Time Off and 401K match), we offer a fun and friendly working environment!
Rock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, marital status or any other basis prohibited by state or federal law. Due to nature of defense contracts, US Citizenship is a requirement. As part of our Drug and Alcohol Policy, upon acceptance of any offer of employment, employment will be conditional of passing a required drug test.
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.

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