Business Development Director - Defense

Orca-AI • Washington, DC

11h • Remote

About The Position

We are looking for a high-impact Business Development Director to lead our growth within the defense and government sectors in the USA. This is a role for a closer - someone who possesses the strategic "startup hustle" to navigate emerging tech landscapes and the professional "defense-sector polish" to seal high-stakes federal contracts. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of securing wins with the Department of Defense (DoD) and thrives in high-growth, venture-backed environments.

As the Director of Business Development, you will be the primary engine for our market expansion. You won’t just be "opening doors" or managing partnerships; you will own the entire lifecycle of the deal—from initial capture and strategic positioning to final contract closing.

Requirements

• 8+ years of professional experience, with a heavy focus on the defense and government sectors.
• A documented history of closing complex deals with federal and defense customers.
• Direct experience working within a startup environment. You understand how to build processes where they don't exist and move at the speed of innovation.
• Must be based in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Specific experience in shipbuilding, naval systems, autonomous maritime contexts, or maritime defense is a significant plus.
• Previous roles at venture-backed, high-growth defense tech companies.
• Demonstrated experience as a Director or Senior IC owning capture efforts, strategic partnerships, and new business wins.
• A history of sustained tenure and professional growth within organizations (we value "builders" over "hoppers").

Responsibilities

• Lead Capture & Closing: Own the end-to-end sales cycle for major government and defense contracts.
• Strategic Growth: Identify and penetrate new market segments within the DoD and federal government.
• Partnership Architecture: Build and manage strategic relationships that lead directly to revenue and mission success.
• Market Intelligence: Translate complex government requirements into actionable product feedback for our engineering and product teams.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees