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Defense Business Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ROUSH

Business Development Manager - Defense

Troy, MI · On-site

Job Summary: The Business Development Manager will sell Roush services and capabilities, as well as develop new sales leads and accounts through referrals and industry contacts in the Defense ...

ROUSH

Business Development Manager - Defense

Troy, MI · On-site

Job Summary: The Business Development Manager will sell Roush services and capabilities, as well as develop new sales leads and accounts through referrals and industry contacts in the Defense ...

Orca-AI

Business Development Director - Defense

Description We are looking for a high-impact Business Development Director to lead our growth within the defense and government sectors in the USA. This is a role for a closer - someone who possesses ...

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Defense Business Development information

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$29K

$55.8K

$92K

How much do defense business development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense business development in the United States is $55,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is being a BDM a stressful job?

Business Development Managers (BDMs) in the defense sector often face stress due to high targets, complex client relationships, and the need to stay updated on industry regulations. The role requires strong negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and often involves tight deadlines and pressure to secure contracts. However, stress levels can vary based on company culture and individual workload management.

Is BDM higher than sales manager?

In defense business development (BDM) roles, the position is often considered senior to or on a different track than a sales manager, focusing more on strategic growth, government contracts, and long-term relationships. Sales managers typically handle day-to-day sales operations and team management, while BDMs develop new opportunities and partnerships, which can lead to higher-level responsibilities or compensation depending on the organization. The hierarchy varies by company, but BDM roles often require specialized knowledge of defense markets and may involve higher-level negotiations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Defense Business Development position, and why are they important?

To excel in Defense Business Development, you typically need experience in government contracts, market analysis, and a solid understanding of defense industry regulations, often supported by a degree in business, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with federal acquisition systems (such as SAM.gov), CRM software, and security clearance requirements is highly beneficial. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and strategic thinking are standout soft skills for this position. These abilities are crucial to identifying and securing new business opportunities, navigating complex procurement processes, and building strong partnerships within the defense sector.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Defense Business Development professional?

A Defense Business Development professional is usually responsible for identifying new business opportunities within the defense sector, nurturing relationships with key stakeholders, and preparing proposals for government contracts. Their day often includes conducting market and competitor research, attending industry events or meetings, and collaborating closely with technical teams to tailor solutions for client needs. They also work cross-functionally with legal, compliance, and operations teams to ensure proposals meet all regulatory requirements. This role is dynamic and requires balancing strategic planning with real-time responsiveness to industry trends and client demands.

What is a Defense Business Development job?

A Defense Business Development job involves identifying and securing new business opportunities within the defense sector. Professionals in this role build relationships with government agencies, military branches, and defense contractors to promote their company's products or services. They analyze market trends, develop strategic partnerships, and manage the proposal and contracting process. Success in this role requires a strong understanding of defense procurement processes, regulations, and industry requirements.

Who are the big 5 dod contractors?

The top five Department of Defense contractors are Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon Technologies, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics. These companies often seek defense business development professionals to manage government contracts, proposals, and strategic partnerships in the defense industry.

Who are the big 7 defense contractors?

The big seven defense contractors are Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Technologies, General Dynamics, L3Harris Technologies, and Huntington Ingalls Industries. These companies are major players in defense business development, often working on large government contracts and requiring security clearances and specialized skills.
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Defense Business Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Business Development job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,773 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Sales Engineer - OEM Defense | Business Development

Sales Engineer - OEM Defense | Business Development

BETA Technologies

South Burlington, VT

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Sales Engineer to drive growth of our OEM component partnerships. This role is highly sales-focused and centers on developing strategic relationships with defense primes seeking to integrate BETA's technologies into their platforms.

This position is ideal for someone who combines strong commercial instincts with enough technical depth to confidently engage engineering teams and translate customer needs into compelling partnership opportunities.

How you will contribute to revolutionizing electric aviation:

  • Identify, develop, and close new defense revenue opportunities for BETA's component products
  • Engage early-well before formal solicitations-to shape requirements, influence architectures, and position BETA as a key subsystem provider
  • Own the full business development lifecycle - from prospecting and qualification through negotiation and contract execution
  • Maintain a current pulse on DOW market trends including service operational constructs and acquisition reform
  • Build long-term strategic relationships with key decision-makers across engineering, procurement, and executive leadership at defense prime organizations
  • Lead capture efforts from opportunity identification through proposal submission and contract award, including win strategy, teaming, and pricing inputs
  • Collaborate with internal engineering and program teams to shape customer-ready solutions and value propositions
  • Drive proposal development, including positioning, competitive differentiation, and deal strategy
  • Rapidly develop and manage a qualified pipeline, with clear prioritization and bias toward high-probability, high-impact wins
  • Represent BETA at industry events, trade shows, and customer engagements

Minimum Qualifications:

  • +10 years of experience in technical sales, business development, or strategic partnerships involving complex engineered solutions to defense primes
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant engineering discipline
  • First hand experience with DFARs, data rights, and compliance in DOW contracting
  • Strong commercial negotiation and relationship-building skills
  • Familiarity with electric propulsion systems, batteries, inverters, and motors
  • Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly in a sales context
  • High sense of urgency, ownership, and accountability for revenue generation
  • Experience working with aerospace OEMs, and defense primes, on long-term supply agreementsYou are relentless, curious, and externally focused
  • You don't wait for RFPs-you create the conditions that make them winnable
  • You are comfortable with ambiguity, energized by building from zero, and motivated by closing

Above and Beyond Qualifications:

  • DoD Security Clearance
  • FAA Pilot's License
  • MBA or equivalent

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

  • Ability to travel 50% of the time
  • This role could be based in either our South Burlington, VT location or Washington D.C.

Apply