Business Development Manager - Defense

This is the opportunity of a lifetime. Auriga Space is revolutionizing propulsion by developing electromagnetic launch systems that dramatically improve launch cost, reliability, and responsiveness compared to rockets. Our mission is to reshape how we test, deploy, and sustain hypersonic and space systems. We’re seeking a driven Business Development Manager to accelerate defense and commercial adoption of our technology. In this role, you’ll identify and shape opportunities, build and sustain relationships with both new and existing customers and partners, and help secure the strategic contracts and collaborations that propel Auriga’s growth. You’ll operate at the intersection of technology, strategy, and national security, directly influencing the future of electromagnetic launch. Roles and Responsibilities Lead or contribute to proposals and white papers, including analyzing P-win, driving go/no-go decisions, and aligning technical responses with customer needs. Build, expand, and maintain deep relationships across DoD agencies, defense primes, commercial partners, and research organizations. Generate and qualify leads for hypersonic test partnerships and convert them into active projects or contracts. Track and manage opportunities across the full BD lifecycle, from early engagement and shaping to award and handoff to execution. Engage both new and existing partners to shape programs, identify collaboration paths, and ensure long‑term continuity and growth. Negotiate teaming agreements, partnerships, and strategic initiatives with other contractors or collaborators Develop compelling pitch decks and responses to solicitations (BAAs, OTAs, SBIR/STTR, IDIQs, etc.). Represent Auriga at conferences, industry days, and private briefings. Desired Qualifications 4+ years of experience in government business development, capture, or program leadership within aerospace, defense, or national security. Existing DoD, defense prime, or research lab networks experience with a strong grasp of space and defense markets. Strong understanding of DoD acquisition processes and funding mechanisms (BAAs, OTAs, SBIR/STTR, IDIQs, etc.). Proven track record of winning contracts and cultivating trusted relationships with DoD stakeholders. Excellent communication and storytelling ability, able to distill complex technology into mission‑driven narratives. Strategic, persistent, and proactive, and must be comfortable navigating ambiguity and thriving in a fast‑moving startup environment. Technically curious and capable of explaining complex systems in clear, accessible terms. Why Join Us Make a significant impact in an early‑stage company, and play a significant role in setting the direction of the company. Be a critical and early team member in a growing space industry. Competitive compensation package with comprehensive benefits and stock options package. Collaborative work environment that values diversity, creativity, and excellence. Opportunity for career growth and influence in a rapidly growing aerospace company. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More details on ITAR are available on the U.S. Department of State's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls website. Auriga provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Auriga, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. #J-18808-Ljbffr