Business Development Director, Satellites - TS/SCI Clearance
Washington, DC
Rocket Lab is an end‑to‑end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, national security, and new technology demonstrations.
The Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds an extensive line of satellites, payloads, and components, including spacecraft selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.
Rocket Lab’s Business Development team connects 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 needs and develop tailored solutions, building and maintaining relationships internally with engineering and operations teams.
Based at Rocket Lab's site in Washington, DC, the Business Development Director, Satellites will drive Rocket Lab’s growth in the satellite market, focusing on national security opportunities. The role involves identifying and engaging potential clients, developing strategic partnerships, and leading efforts to secure contracts that expand our market share.
Responsibilities
- Lead business development initiatives focused on satellite solutions for defense applications
- Develop and execute capture strategies for securing large defense or civil space contracts, including those with government agencies and prime contractors
- Engage with key customer stakeholders to build and maintain long‑term relationships, ensuring solutions align with evolving needs
- Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to prepare and deliver compelling proposals that meet customer requirements and win new business
- Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to inform and adapt strategies
- Grow existing opportunities and nurture relationships with existing customers to develop additional business opportunities
- Create new business opportunities and relationships by presenting our capabilities and experience to provide satellite solutions
- Lead and/or participate in proposal activities, including generation of technical, management, cost, schedule, and proposal content for new business
- Develop strong relationships across all levels of the business to ensure alignment, efficiency, and collaboration
- Represent Rocket Lab at industry conferences and customer meetings
- Travel as needed for business opportunities
- Other duties as assigned or required
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or other technical discipline
- 12+ years of experience in business development, program management, or systems engineering within the aerospace sector
- In‑depth knowledge of government acquisition processes, contracting, and the national security landscape
- Proven track record of securing large (>$20M) contracts and managing strategic relationships within the aerospace industry
- Active TS/SCI security clearance
- Ability to support frequent domestic and international travel (up to 50%)
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or related field; or business
- Specialization in U.S. government business development, with deep experience selling to U.S. national security or civil space agencies
- Demonstrable record of success in business development, sales, program management, and/or engineering of satellite systems, payloads, or platforms
- Extensive awareness of current U.S. Government satellite programs
- Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills
- Experience leading, managing, and growing geographically dispersed teams on fast‑paced projects
- Proficient in Microsoft Suite, including MS Project
- General knowledge of industry technical and quality requirements
- Experience using CRM software and proposal development processes
- Ability to independently complete cost and technical proposals and collaborate with subject‑matter experts
Additional Requirements
- Availability outside of normal business hours and/or weekends as needed
- Close, distance, peripheral, and depth vision, and ability to focus
- Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard, and communicate verbally and in writing
- Must be physically able to commute to buildings
- Occasional exposure to dust, fumes, and moderate noise levels
Compensation
Base Pay Range (D.C. Only): $180,000 - $250,000 USD
Benefits
Rocket Lab offers equity, medical (PPO & HSA), dental, vision, three weeks paid vacation, five days sick leave, eleven paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with company match, plus other perks such as a discounted employee stock purchase program.
U.S. Citizenship Requirement
Eligibility for this role is limited to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents due to ITAR compliance.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Rocket Lab 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. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process should contact Giulia Johnson at The application process is confidential, and only messages left for this purpose will be considered.
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