Business Development Specialist

NIRA, Inc.•Washington, DC

About The Position

NIRA helps government agencies use data and technology to make better decisions, improve compliance, and increase transparency. Our solutions support mission-critical programs across federal civilian agencies, with a strong focus on data analytics, risk management, and operational efficiency. We are growing our government business and are seeking a GovCon Business Development Specialist who excels at building relationships, connecting people, and advancing opportunities through strong stakeholder engagement. This role is well-suited for a mid-level to mid/senior GovCon professional with experience navigating federal acquisition and supporting business development and capture efforts. You'll work closely with internal technical, proposal, and leadership teams to identify and pursue new government contracting opportunities. You will also serve as a connector and relationship-builder-someone who can open doors, establish credibility with stakeholders, create momentum with partners, and translate relationships into a qualified pipeline. This position is ideal for someone who is self-motivated, proactive, and comfortable owning their work, while also being a strong team player who collaborates effectively across functions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience
3–6+ years of experience in government contracting business development, capture, or proposal support
Solid understanding of the federal acquisition lifecycle
Experience supporting or selling into DOT, DoD/defense programs, HHS, or similar federal agencies
Familiarity with GovCon tools such as SAM.gov, GovWin, FPDS, or similar
Strong written, verbal, and organizational skills
Demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders, build relationships, and maintain a professional network
Ability to work independently, stay organized, manage priorities, and follow through on commitments
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively as part of a cross-functional team

Nice To Haves

Experience in a small to mid-sized GovCon, SaaS, or data/technology-focused company
Familiarity with contract vehicles such as GSA MAS, IDIQs, and BPAs
Experience supporting prime–subcontractor teaming arrangements
Strong presence and comfort in external-facing settings (events, meetings, briefings)
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment

Responsibilities

Build and maintain trusted relationships with government stakeholders, industry partners, and prime contractors
Proactively make connections between NIRA capabilities and agency mission needs through ongoing outreach and engagement
Represent NIRA in external engagements, including industry days, conferences, customer meetings, and partner discussions
Strengthen NIRA's visibility and reputation by consistently following up, staying present, and nurturing relationships over time
Identify, qualify, and track federal contracting opportunities aligned with NIRA's solutions
Monitor opportunities through SAM.gov, GovWin, agency forecasts, and other market research tools
Build and maintain a qualified pipeline, with emphasis on DOT, DoW/defense programs, HHS, and related federal agencies
Support account planning activities (e.g., stakeholder maps, relationship plans, touchpoint calendars)
Support capture activities including opportunity shaping, customer research, and competitive analysis
Collaborate with proposal teams on RFIs, RFPs, and white papers
Contribute to win themes and solution positioning aligned with agency missions and priorities
Help coordinate and drive internal capture actions to maintain forward motion and accountability
Assist with partner identification, outreach, and relationship development
Support teaming strategies and coordination of teaming agreements (NDAs, TAAs, etc.)
Help maintain active partner communication and collaboration throughout capture and proposal cycles
Research agency programs, incumbents, contract vehicles, and recompetes
Track competitors and market trends relevant to NIRA's offerings
Maintain accurate, current opportunity and contact data in CRM or pipeline tracking tools
Follow internal business development and gate review processes
Ensure BD activities align with FAR-based procurement requirements and internal compliance standards