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Defense Business Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense

Director Business Development

CA · Remote

$195K - $250K/yr

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc., is a leading defense technology company focused on ... The Director of Business Development (DBD) is responsible for synthesizing marketing, sales and ...

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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.

Business Development Manager - Army / Defense

BlackFern Recruitment

Herndon, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Security clearance: Active Secret clearance or the ability to obtain one.

Role Overview:

An innovative and rapidly growing defense technology company is seeking a Business Development Manager to support strategic growth initiatives across the U.S. Military market, with a strong emphasis on Army programs and defense modernization efforts.

This individual will play a key role in identifying, qualifying, shaping, and capturing new business opportunities while building and maintaining relationships across military and defense organizations.

Key Responsibilities:

Grow the U.S. Military domestic opportunity pipeline with focus on the Army but also other military branches by leveraging your overall DoW experiences in these markets/customers.

Develop and execute strategic and tactical plans for the pursuit and successful capture of key opportunities.

Obtain marketing intelligence and competitive data pertaining to potential targeted pursuits and develop marketing strategies.

Establish, build, and maintain customer relationships and assess competitor capabilities aligned to Army and other DoW requirements.

Support creation and execution of multi-year business development strategies.

Willingness to travel.

Qualifications:

Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience

Demonstrated success in leading and winning new business

Ability to identify, establish and use important customer relationships with senior-level officials and program stakeholders within US Military markets.

Experience and customer relationships within the Army and other DoW organizations.

Experience shaping opportunity captures and developing overall winning strategies; shaping deals with customers; developing teaming strategies; and assisting in or leading other aspects of captures.

Experience in directing and supporting new business development opportunities to improve the company s business portfolio to include marketing and customer call plans.

Ability to develop, document, and execute a plan for achieving awards/growth.

Knowledge of Government contracting and current acquisition trends and customer buying behaviors.

Excellent written communication skills with experience presenting to senior executives and customers

Active or previous security clearance (or the ability to obtain one).

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