Defense Business Development Manager, Commercial Programs

What we're building

The marine industry supports recreation, global commerce, and national defense. Arc is on a mission to electrify the marine industry by rethinking powertrains, software, and vessel designs from first principles.

Who we're looking for

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.

Core responsibilities

• Developing and executing government contracting and sales strategies across the Navy, defense primes, and adjacent government entities

• Identifying and prioritizing opportunities across defense and commercial maritime sectors with particular focus on autonomous and unmanned platforms

• Engaging senior stakeholders from defense primes, government entities, and the military

• Identifying relevant programs and contracts where our technology can be applied, with a strong understanding of defense procurement pathways

• Lead and execute complex program capture strategies for programs

• Mapping relevant programs and contract vehicles to Arc's powertrain and power distribution capabilities, including emerging vehicles like Golden Fleet

• Guiding business strategy using market research, advisor networks, and a command of the broader competitive landscape

Basic qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred

• 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%)

Bonus qualifications

• Experience working at an emerging technology defense contractor

• Experience in strategy consulting

• Experience in the maritime industry or with a government agency dealing with the marine domain

• Direct experience engaging with government program offices (e.g., PEO USC, PMS 406, NAVSEA)

• Familiarity with autonomy, robotics, and maritime systems

• Enthusiasm for boating and clean energy

Our values

We move with urgency and build with care. We value ownership, empathy, humility, pragmatism, and inclusion.

What we offer

• 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