Defense Partnerships Manager
About The Position
Every idea starts with a problem. Ours was simple: Boats are special — but they’re loud, pollutant, unreliable, and stuck in the past. Gas-powered boats dominate not because they’re great, but because no better option has existed. Until now. Arc is here to change that. We’re building 100% electric boats from the ground up — quicker, quieter, easier to maintain, and better for the water they ride on. We’re not just swapping gas for batteries. We’re rethinking every detail on the boat — from propulsion and powertrain to software and ownership model — applying first-principles engineering from aerospace and EVs to deliver a better boating experience. Electric boats haven’t taken over yet. The tech hasn’t been ready. The talent hasn’t been focused here. That’s our opportunity — and we’re moving fast. We’re looking for someone who’s fired up by our mission and ready to build. This will be a critical role in identifying, cultivating, and leading high-impact partnerships across the defense, technology, and maritime sectors. This is a full-time, on-site role at our Los Angeles headquarters. You’ll report to our CTO and work closely with a lean, high-trust team where everyone’s work matters.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field
- 7+ years of experience in a strategic role in a high-velocity environment, with exposure to defense, maritime, aerospace, or robotics industries
- Demonstrated track record of closing deals, winning programs, and forming high-value partnerships with public and private sector entities
- Strong understanding of defense procurement pathways and the Defense Industrial Base
- Eligible for security clearance as needed
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly and concisely
- Comfortable operating in ambiguity and building a function from scratch at a fast but sustainable pace
- Ability to travel regularly (approximately 20–30%)
Nice To Haves
- Experience working at an emerging technology defense contractor
- Experience in strategy consulting
- Eligibility for security clearance as needed
- Experience in the maritime industry or with a government agency dealing with the marine domain
- Direct experience engaging with government program offices
- Familiarity with autonomy, robotics, and maritime systems
- Enthusiasm for boating and clean energy
Responsibilities
- Developing and executing partnership strategies
- Identifying and prioritizing opportunities across defense and commercial maritime sectors
- Engaging senior stakeholders from defense primes, emerging tech providers, key suppliers, academic organizations, and government entities
- Identifying relevant programs and contracts where our technology can be applied, with a strong understanding of defense procurement pathways
- Leading negotiations on partnership terms, agreements, and contracts
- Guiding business strategy using market research, advisor networks, and a command of the broader competitive landscape
Benefits
- Salary: $175,000 + deal based eligibility
- Ownership – Equity in Arc
- 99% employer-paid health coverage – Medical, dental, and vision
- Arc Water Fund – Annual stipend to get out on the water, however you choose
- Captain Training – Get certified to take the boat out with friends and family
- 401(k) access – Plan your future
- Semi-annual bonuses – Tied to your impact, not just your tenure
- Daily team lunches, snacks, and good coffee while onsite
- Parental leave – Because family comes first
- Boat days – Yes, we actually go out on the water. A lot.
- A chance to define the future of boating
- The ability to drive positive environmental change through your work
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
