Strategic Partner Development Lead, Suncatcher

Google•Los Angeles, CA

17h•$140,000 - $203,000

About The Position

The Strategic Partner Development Lead will develop and manage external partnerships for Project Suncatcher, Google’s initiative to scale machine-learning compute through space-based, solar-powered data centers. The project involves deploying Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) hardware into low Earth orbit satellite constellations connected by high-speed optical links. The role will help shape the external aerospace and technology ecosystem needed to execute this goal. The position involves identifying potential partners, leading exploratory discussions, evaluating and developing business opportunities, and guiding cross-functional teams. The Lead will work with Google Product, Engineering, Legal, Sales, and Finance teams on strategic relationships and agreements. Agreements may be bespoke, highly negotiated, and involve complex intellectual-property considerations in regulated environments. The role requires understanding the technology and developing partnership strategies before execution, as well as presenting strategies and key issues to senior management and mentoring managers and associates. The role may involve access to export-controlled technical information. Non-US persons would require an export license to access it; US citizens, lawful permanent residents, and certain protected individuals are considered US persons under applicable law.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.
Seven years of experience in a partner-facing role at a technology company or start-up.
Experience in agreement negotiation, partner management, or product management in a satellite or technology-development environment.
Experience building internal and external senior-level relationships.

Nice To Haves

Experience collaborating with frontier-technology partners, supply-chain vendors, and academic research institutions.
Ability to balance strategic, big-picture thinking with detailed tactical execution.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills, including the ability to navigate ambiguity and lead cross-functional initiatives.
Background in technology development or entrepreneurship, ideally supported by education or experience in science, engineering, or AI/ML.
Background in space systems development, satellite manufacturing, aerospace, or optical communications.

Responsibilities

Manage agreement flow and own end-to-end execution, from initial scoping and partner identification through final agreement signing using Google’s internal systems.
Scope, draft, and close Suncatcher agreements covering component supply, equipment purchases, IP licensing, trusted tester setups, and vendor staffing.
Build and maintain business partnerships to secure favorable pricing, optimal parts availability, and reliable service delivery.
Coordinate across internal divisions to align Suncatcher initiatives with Google’s broader supply-chain and procurement efforts.
Work closely with Engineering, Product Management, Legal, and Finance to review agreements, align on strategic goals, and mitigate risks.
Open discussions with potential partners and evaluate and develop business opportunities.
Lead cross-functional teams, provide thought leadership, and mentor managers and associates.
Present business-development strategies and key issues to senior management.