Business Development Associate

Biosphere • Oakland, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Business Development Associate will support Biosphere’s business development efforts, with a focus on contract manufacturing. As part of the commercial team, this person will source leads, engage potential and existing customers, communicate customer feedback, and sell Biosphere’s production services. The role works closely with the executive team and contributes to the company’s strategy to scale revenue using its new class of bioreactors.

This is an in-person role based in Oakland, California. The expected schedule is Monday through Friday during normal working hours, with occasional weekend work potentially required. Travel within the United States is required.

Requirements

• College degree in a related technical field, such as Chemical Engineering or Microbiology.
• 1–2 years of sales or business experience.
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial spirit and demonstrated willingness to cold call and pursue deals.
• Understanding of and interest in negotiation, market dynamics, industry trends, and customer needs in fermentation or biomanufacturing.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Willingness to travel within the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Previous contract negotiation experience.
• Background in contract manufacturing, specialty chemicals, agricultural biologicals, and/or human nutrition sales.
• Technical understanding of synthetic biology and fermentation-derived ingredients.
• Knowledge of QC/QA, product qualification, and the regulatory environment for ingredients in feed and food.

Responsibilities

• Sell Biosphere’s contract manufacturing services to industries including food, agriculture, and specialty chemicals.
• Establish and cultivate long-term relationships with key customers and partners, including the Department of War.
• Develop go-to-market strategies for Biosphere’s production capacity.
• Develop relationships with supply chain managers and distributors across application and ingredient verticals.
• Lead the full sales cycle, from market research, lead generation, and initial contact through letters of intent and contract manufacturing agreements.
• Understand and communicate quality standards internally and with partners.
• Lead and oversee interactions among R&D, Regulatory, Supply Chain, and Legal, including drafting commercial agreements.
• Maintain an up-to-date pipeline of sales leads.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation through a mix of salary and equity.
• Unlimited paid vacation and sick/leave days, plus public holidays.
• Comprehensive health insurance for employees and their dependents, including dental and vision.
• Paid family leave.
• Membership at the Pacific Pipe Climbing gym next door.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level