Business Development Manager

We are seeking a Business Development Manager to help scale Spear AI’s growth by identifying mission problems, shaping technical solutions, and transitioning emerging capabilities into operational programs across defense, intelligence, and allied government customers.

Spear AI is a growing defense contracting company dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support our nation’s security. As we expand, we’re building a culture where innovation meets mission-critical work. We operate with a flat organizational structure that empowers every team member to make an impact, collaborate directly with leadership, and contribute to projects that matter. Whether you’re joining our Hardware, Software, or Services division, you’ll work alongside talented professionals who are committed to excellence and advancing the capabilities that keep our nation safe and secure.

Spear AI builds sonobuoy sensors that are deployed into the water and collect edge data. We also work with the U.S. Navy to collect and process their SONAR data. You’ll have an opportunity to work on real-world projects that directly impact warfighter capabilities and mission success.

What you’ll do

We’re a small team wearing many hats, and you’d have a wide variety of responsibilities that include:

• Identify and pursue strategic opportunities across the defense, intelligence, and maritime security sectors.

• Develop and execute capture strategies for programs involving maritime sensors, AI-enabled analytics, and maritime domain awareness systems.

• Shape new opportunities by working with government customers to translate operational problems into technical solutions.

• Build and manage a pipeline of qualified opportunities while improving capture probability and win rates.

• Partner with engineering teams to demonstrate Spear AI capabilities including maritime sensors, real-time data pipelines, and AI-driven maritime analytics.

• Lead the business development lifecycle including market research, opportunity shaping, RFI/RFP support, proposal development, and contract negotiation.

• Navigate complex government procurement processes to transition pilot programs, SBIR efforts, and prototype deployments into long-term programs.

• Build and maintain trusted relationships with senior leaders across defense, intelligence, and allied maritime organizations.

• Expand strategic partnerships with industry and technology partners that strengthen Spear AI’s market position.

Who you are

We’re looking for someone with strong Business Development skills who shares our most important values:

• Strong alignment with the mission of advancing maritime security through applied AI and sensing technologies.

• The ability to translate complex technical systems—including data pipelines, AI models, and sensor architectures—into clear operational value.

• Experience operating independently in ambiguous environments while delivering measurable revenue growth.

• Deep curiosity about maritime operational challenges including maritime security, underwater sensing, and global maritime logistics.

• The ability to operate comfortably in both operational and technical environments and understand how emerging technologies transition into government programs.

• The ability to engage credibly with both engineers and senior government leadership.

Why work with us

• We ship — We don’t work on 18-month projects that are irrelevant before they’re even finished.

• Our work has impact — We build products that are deployed to U.S. submarines and integrate with the sonobuoys we manufacture.

• We’re growing responsibly — We have the resources to hire a lot more people, but we don’t want to build a massive team of people who don’t share our values.

• We’re profitable — We aren’t burning through cash trying to make the business work. But we also have investors who believe in us and are committed to our success.

• We care about doing great work — You don’t need permission to sweat the details here.

• We don’t take ourselves too seriously — We’re building products that make the world safer. But we don’t let that get to our heads.

Important Skills

• 4–10+ years experience in Business Development, Capture Management, or operational leadership within the defense, intelligence, or maritime sectors.

• Demonstrated success supporting or leading captures resulting in multi-million dollar government contracts.

• Familiarity with U.S. defense acquisition processes, including FAR-based contracting and alternative acquisition pathways.

• Understanding of AI-driven data platforms, SaaS architectures, and operational analytics used in defense environments.

• Working knowledge of maritime systems, including maritime sensors, AIS data, acoustic systems, unmanned platforms, or maritime domain awareness architectures.

Nice to have

• Background in data engineering, analytics platforms, or enterprise digital transformation.

• Experience working at rapid-growth defense technology companies.

• Existing relationships across DoD, DHS, intelligence agencies, or allied defense organizations.

What we offer

• Unlimited PTO — Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work-life balance.

• Dedicated Sick Time — Your health and well-being come first.

• Comprehensive Health & Benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family protected.

• 11 Paid Holidays — Enjoy time off throughout the year to celebrate and spend time with loved ones.

• Professional Development — Educational opportunities and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career.

• Collaborative Environment — Work directly with leadership in our flat organizational structure, where your ideas and contributions matter.

• Mission-Driven Work — Contribute to projects that directly support national security and make a real-world impact.

• Growth Opportunities — Join us during an exciting expansion phase where you can help shape our future.

Additional benefit opportunities when you choose Spear AI:

• 401(k) with company match.

• Onsite / Remote / Flexible work arrangements or hybrid options (position dependent).

• Relocation assistance (position dependent).

• Referral bonuses.

• Performance bonuses.

• Life insurance and disability coverage.

• Technology home office setup stipend.

• Professional certification reimbursement (position dependent).

We offer competitive compensation tailored to your experience, location, and the impact you’ll make. We’re committed to equitable pay and will share a range aligned to your level and geography during the hiring process. In accordance with state law, candidates in jurisdictions such as CA, CO, WA, NY, and others, where applicable, will be provided a good-faith salary range upon request and throughout the hiring process. This is a full-time, exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible for overtime pay.

Compensation for this position is provided on a salaried basis and is not subject to reduction based on hours worked. At Spear AI, you’ll find more than just a job; you’ll join a mission-driven team where your work directly contributes to national security. Our flat organizational structure means your voice matters, your ideas reach leadership, and your impact is visible. As we grow, we’re committed to building robust processes and infrastructure that support both our mission and our people. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, and the expertise each team member brings to the table. If you’re looking for a place to grow professionally while working on projects that truly matter, we’d love to hear from you.