The Principal Business Development Engineer creates long-term value and is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities within the Defense and Aerospace sectors. This person will understand how to develop markets primarily for nontraditional defense subcontractors for supply of commercial products to Prime Contractors. This role focuses on expanding strategic customer relationships and partnerships, supporting proposal development, capturing new programs, and driving revenue growth while aligning with corporate strategic objectives. This person will drive and support expansion into new D&A US Government and Prime Contractor opportunities, growth of the D&A sales pipeline, development of strategic partnerships in support of long-term revenue objectives, and increased market presence in domestic and international defense markets.
Key Responsibilities- Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities across Defense and Aerospace markets, with a focus on government agencies, prime contractors, and Tier 1 suppliers.
- Build a strong understanding of customer needs, market trends, competitor activity, government budgets, and areas for future growth.
- Develop and maintain trusted relationships with customers, partners, government contacts, prime contractors, and key industry stakeholders.
- Support the full customer engagement process from early opportunity development through proposal, capture, and contract award.
- Partner with Business Unit teams on proposals, pricing, and contract negotiations to help secure new programs and drive long-term revenue growth.
- Work closely with BU leadership, engineering, legal/contracts, and executive teams to align business development efforts with company goals and annual revenue targets.
- Represent the company at customer meetings, industry events, and trade shows to strengthen visibility in domestic and international defense markets.
Required Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Marketing, or a related field
- 12+ years of experience, or an equivalent combination of advanced education and experience including at least 5 years supporting U.S. Government, prime contractors, or the Defense and Aerospace industry.
- Strong understanding of the DoD acquisition process, government contracting requirements, and applicable FAR/DFARS regulations.
- Demonstrated success identifying, pursuing, and winning business with government agencies, prime contractors, or major defense accounts.
- Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to build trust and credibility with customers, partners, government stakeholders, and internal teams.
- Effective negotiation skills, solid contract knowledge, and the financial acumen needed to support pricing, proposals, and business decisions.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence across internal and external audiences.
- Willingness and ability to travel approximately 35% of the time.
Preferred Qualifications- MBA or Master's degree with existing relationships with key US Government and defense contractors.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship by the Company.
This position requires a Security Clearance. Applicant must be a US Citizen and have the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government security clearance.
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