Firestorm is looking for a dynamic, mission-aligned Business Development Manager to drive our engagement with the U.S. Navy & U.S. Marine Corps . In this role, you will shape strategy, forge relationships, and identify opportunities where Firestorm’s cutting-edge systems can close critical capability gaps. You will excel at collaborating with and influencing diverse cross-functional Navy & Marine Corps stakeholders and navigating opportunities across the Department of Navy (DoN). You are an entrepreneurial self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, small business setting, and can confidently influence peers and senior colleagues while contributing across the entire business development, capture, and proposal development lifecycle. In addition, you’ll operate at the intersection of defense acquisition, operational planning, and advanced technology delivery—bridging customer need and product innovation.

What You’ll Do

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, Finance or equivalent education. In lieu of a degree 10+ years of progressive relevant experience is required.
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of War (DoW) security clearance
• Active Secret clearance at hire required.
• 8+ years of experience in federal business development, with direct experience in the Navy, USMC or DoW sector.
• 5+ years of direct experience working & engaging within aerospace and defense, or government services, executing all aspects of business development including pipeline management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience with DoW, DoN acquisition offices or operational Navy/USMC commands, either as a civilian or military service member.
• Experience with DoN program offices & operational commands.
• Demonstrated success leading or influencing cross-functional teams in matrixed organizations.
• Experience advising or integrating technology, materials, or engineering solutions into naval systems.
• Strong competitor analysis skills and the ability to anticipate market behavior and model competitor strategies.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and budget management capabilities.

About The Company Firestorm grew out of a simple question: How does a U.S. ally with a relatively limited defense budget deter a near-peer aggressor with vastly larger resources?

We are building the answer to that question through expeditionary manufacturing, affordable mass, and mission-adaptable autonomous systems designed for contested environments. Firestorm is a venture-backed defense technology company developing modular unmanned systems and deployable manufacturing capabilities that enable operators to Print-Build-Fly combat capability at the tactical edge.

As Firestorm scales beyond Series B, we are seeking a Vice President of Business Development with operational credibility, strategic vision, and deep experience navigating Department of War acquisition, operational end users, strategic partnerships, and growth-stage defense technology scaling.

Work Environment

• Position will be based in Washington D.C., San Diego CA, Norfolk VA or Pensacola FL.
• We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
• Travel up to 20% of the time CONUS/OCONUS to customer sites, exercises, and industry events as required

Compensation US Salary Range: $130,000 - $170,000 USD

The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve. Benefits & Perks Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

ITAR Compliance To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.