Business Development Director, Satellites - TS/SCI Clearance

Business Development Director, Satellites - TS/SCI ClearanceWashington, DCRocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.Rocket Lab's Business Development team is responsible for connecting customers across government and commercial sectors with our industry leading mission solutions spanning launch and space systems. They work closely with new and existing customers to understand their needs and develop tailored solutions to deliver their missions. Building and maintaining relationships with customers and internally with engineering and operations teams is at the core of our Business Development team. They have their fingers on the pulse of the space industry and are driven to deliver results for our customers and our business.Based at Rocket Lab's site in Washington, DC, as the Business Development Director, Satellites, you will drive Rocket Lab's growth in the satellite market. You will work with a range of customers, but primarily focused on national security opportunities. Your role will involve identifying and engaging with potential clients, developing strategic partnerships, and leading efforts to secure contracts that expand our market share in this rapidly growing sector.What You'll Get To Do:Lead business development initiatives focused on satellite solutions for defense applicationsDevelop and execute capture strategies for securing large defense or civil space contracts, including those with government agencies and prime contractorsEngage with key customer stakeholders to build and maintain long-term relationships, ensuring Rocket Lab's solutions align with their evolving needsCollaborate with cross-functional teams to prepare and deliver compelling proposals that meet customer requirements and win new businessMonitor industry trends and competitor activities to inform and adapt our business development strategiesGrow existing business opportunities and nurture relationships with existing customers to develop additional businessCreate new business opportunities and relationships by presenting Rocket Lab's capabilities/experience to provide satellite solutions – including bus offerings and complete satellites to meet mission requirementsLead and/or participate in proposal activities, including generation of technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content for new businessDevelop strong relationships across all levels of the business to ensure alignment, efficiency, and collaboration, including coordinating with stakeholdersRepresent Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetingsTravel as needed for business opportunitiesOther duties as assigned or requiredYou'll Bring These Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline12+ years of experience in business development, program management, or systems engineering within the aerospace sectorIn-depth knowledge of government acquisition processes, government contracting, and the national security landscapeProven track record of securing large (>$20M) contracts and managing strategic relationships within the aerospace industryActive TS/SCI security clearanceAbility to support frequent domestic and international travel (up to 50%) to meet with clients, attend industry events, and support capture effortsThese Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:Master's degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field; or businessSpecialization in US government business development, with deep experience selling to US national security (Space Force, NRO, SDA, etc.) or US Civil Space (NASA, NOAA, etc.)Demonstrable record of success in business development, sales, program management and/or engineering of satellite systems, payloads, or platformsExtensive awareness of current/ongoing US Government national security or civil space satellite programsExcellent verbal and written communication and presentation skillsExperience leading, managing, and growing geographically dispersed teams on fast-paced projectsProficient in all Microsoft Suite products, including MS ProjectGeneral knowledge of industry specific technical requirements and quality requirementsExperience using customer relationship management (CRM) softwareExperience with proposal development, writing, and best practice capture processes, and ability to independently complete cost and technical proposalsExperience working with subject matter experts to collect and create compelling proposal content and detailed responsesThis position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: discounted employee stock purchase program, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.Base Pay Range (D.C. Only)$187,000 - $280,000 USDWhat To ExpectWe're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.