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Rocket Lab is seeking a Business Development Director, Satellites to lead growth in the satellite market, with primary focus on national security opportunities. Based at the Chantilly, VA site, you will drive business development initiatives for satellite solutions serving defense applications and government agencies.
Key responsibilities include: leading capture strategies for large defense and civil space contracts (>$20M); engaging with government agencies, prime contractors, and key stakeholders to build long-term relationships; collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop compelling proposals; monitoring industry trends and competitor activities; growing existing customer relationships and identifying new business opportunities; leading proposal activities across technical, management, cost, and schedule components; representing Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings; and traveling frequently (up to 50%) to support business development efforts.
You will work closely with engineering and operations teams to ensure Rocket Lab's satellite solutions—including bus offerings and complete satellite systems—align with evolving customer mission requirements. The role requires deep expertise in government acquisition processes, national security landscape, and the aerospace contracting environment.
Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree in engineering or technical discipline; 12+ years of business development, program management, or systems engineering experience in aerospace; in-depth knowledge of government contracting and national security; proven track record securing large contracts; and active TS/SCI security clearance.
Desired qualifications include: Master's degree in aerospace engineering or business; specialization in US government business development with experience selling to Space Force, NRO, SDA, NASA, or NOAA; demonstrable success in satellite systems, payloads, or platforms; awareness of current US Government national security and civil space programs; strong communication and presentation skills; experience leading geographically dispersed teams; proficiency in Microsoft Suite and CRM software.
