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Defense Business Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PLEXSYS

Business Development Manager - U.S. Navy

Camas, WA · On-site

$137K - $174K/yr

The Business Development Manager will build and maintain customer relationships across Navy ... Drive the development of Defense commercial (products and services) sales strategies * Work closely ...

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Defense Business Development information

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$55.8K

$92K

How much do defense business development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 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.
More about Defense Business Development jobs
What cities are hiring for Defense Business Development jobs? Cities with the most Defense Business Development job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Defense Business Development jobs? The most popular types of Defense Business Development jobs are:
What states have the most Defense Business Development jobs? States with the most job openings for Defense Business Development jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defense Business Development jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defense Business Development jobs are:
Defense Business Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Business Development job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, and 68% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,773 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Business Development Manager - U.S. Navy

Business Development Manager - U.S. Navy

PLEXSYS

Camas, WA • On-site

$137K - $174K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

At PLEXSYS, we're all about creating Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training solutions for our customers worldwide. With over 200 employees spread across fifteen states and four countries, we're dedicated to enhancing training experiences every day, everywhere.
Why PLEXSYS?
At PLEXSYS, you'll be part of a dynamic and supportive culture that encourages you to reach your professional goals, put forth your best effort, and collaborate with other enthusiastic and driven individuals. Our core values - integrity, excellence, teamwork, and agility - are at the heart of everything we do, guiding our decisions and shaping our vibrant organizational culture.
PLEXSYS is an amazing place to work, but you don't have to take our word for it. We invite you to check out what our team members are saying about working at PLEXSYS on Glassdoor. Discover why PLEXSYS could be the perfect place for the next step in your career.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
PLEXSYS Interface Products, Inc. is seeking a Business Development Manager to drive growth and capture
efforts for modeling, simulation, and training programs across the U.S. Navy market. This role will focus on
identifying, qualifying, shaping, and supporting the capture of opportunities aligned with Navy operational,
training, test, and mission rehearsal requirements.
The Business Development Manager will build and maintain customer relationships across Navy acquisition,
operational, and training communities while positioning PLEXSYS solutions to meet emerging mission needs. The
ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of Navy organizations, requirements, and acquisition
pathways, along with proven success in defense business development and capture support.
They will be tasked with driving the growth of company's business model; execute sales strategies against
corporate goals and objectives, and develop and scale up new business and customer bases. They will be
charged with executing the business development and sales effort, monitoring the results, quantifying the
successes and shortfalls, adjusting as needed, and contributing to baseline strategies and fostering improved
performance. This position will develop leads and execute Business Development processes from development
to sales. This position must build internal and external partnerships that focus on customer goals and success.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Grow qualified pipeline in Navy modeling, simulation, and training markets
  • Increase customer intimacy with key Navy stakeholders, acquisition offices, and mission partners
  • Shape opportunities early and align company capabilities with emerging requirements
  • Strengthen capture positioning on strategic Navy pursuits
  • Expand brand presence as a trusted provider of mission-relevant training and simulation solutions
  • Drive the development of Defense commercial (products and services) sales strategies
  • Work closely with PLEXSYS leadership to develop, establish, and direct channel distribution strategies
    and transition to program execution
  • Develop and maintain key customer relationships (with government, industry partners and cross
    company)
  • Develop and implement strategies for expanding the company's customer base
  • Give in-depth presentations and demonstrations of PLEXSYS products and support, as assigned
  • Assist in developing and implementing business development strategy for assigned market area and/or
    campaign
  • Conduct, capture and shape activities, including attending industry briefings, monitoring program
    announcement channels, and engaging with program offices
  • Support the company's participation in trade shows, industry events, workshops and webinars
  • Help develop marketing collateral, white papers and innovative solutions communications
  • Support the Business Development team with submission, review and update of Rough Orders of
    Magnitude (ROMs), Quotes and Proposals in coordination with PLEXSYS divisions/functions
  • Update SalesForce consistently with 100% accuracy for corporate awareness and efficient execution
  • Special projects and miscellaneous duties, as assigned

REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor degree, preferably in Marketing, Business, Engineering or related field
  • 7+ years of experience in business development, capture support, account management, or growth
    strategy in the defense market
  • Demonstrated experience supporting U.S. Navy or broader DoD customers
  • Knowledge of modeling, simulation, training, test, mission rehearsal, or operational readiness
    environments
  • A minimum of five years of proven US Defense BD or sales results, specifically with Live, Virtual,
    Constructive (LVC) and/or Command and Control (C2) and/or Intelligence, Surveilance and Reconnisance
    (ISR) domain experience
  • Understanding of Navy acquisition processes, budget cycles, and customer engagement strategies
  • Proven ability to identify and qualify opportunities and support pursuit strategies from early shaping
    through award
  • Strong written, verbal, and presentation skills
  • Strong relationship-building and cross-functional collaboration skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and staff to create a results-driven, team-oriented
    environment
  • Ability to travel as required
  • Strong strategic planning and analysis skills in sales, marketing, and business (competitive) strategy
  • Extremely effective public speaking skills and presence
  • Ability to clearly communicate in written form, such as technical proposal/white paper experience
  • Active DoD Secret clearance with ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret / SCI

DESIRABLE
  • Experience supporting Naval Air Systems Command, Naval Sea Systems Command, Naval Information
    Warfare Systems Command, U.S. Fleet Forces, Pacific Fleet, or Navy warfare development and training
    organizations
  • Extensive knowledge of PLEXSYS ecosystem with the ability to demonstrate PLEXSYS products, as
    assigned
  • Extensive background in aspects of Modeling and Simulation (M&S)
  • Knowledge and experience with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)
  • Experience in Customer Relationship Management and/or Capture/ Proposal Management (Gate
    reviews)
  • Knowledge and experience in how government funding cycles work
  • Familiar with proposal processes

REPORTING STRUCTURE
  • Vice President or Business Development & Marketing

PERKS
As a PLEXSYS employee, you can expect certain advantages; such as advancement based on performance, competitive wages, valuable benefits and a great working environment. Our team is committed to ensuring an environment that empowers individuals to realize their full potential by providing opportunities and necessary support to achieve personal and professional goals.
  • Medical/Vision/Prescription/Dental Benefits
  • Life, AD&D and Long Term Disability Coverage
  • Paid Holidays, Military Leave, and Paid Time Off
  • 401k Plan with eligibility from first day of employment
  • Education reimbursement for job-related courses for full-time employees
  • PriceClub/COSTCO/Sam's Club annual membership

PLEXSYS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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