Business Development Director, Optical Systems at Rocket Lab

Compensation

$180,000 – $250,000/yr

Setup: Hybrid
Location: Chantilly, Virginia
Type: Full-time
Posted: Jun 26, 2026

Description

Rocket Lab is seeking a Business Development Director, Optical Systems, to lead their team in developing and managing business relationships with laser communications and optical payload customers. The director will draft proposals, monitor sales performance, maintain technical documentation, and support various business initiatives like marketing campaigns and competitive analysis. This role requires significant interaction with customers and involves substantial travel.

Required Skills

Business Development
Program Management
Systems Engineering
Salesforce
SAP/SAR Programs

Additional Information

Required Previous Experiences: 12+ years of experience in business development, program management, or systems engineering within the aerospace sector.
Experience working or selling in the national security space sector.
Experience working SCI and SAP/SAR programs.
Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience working for or at the National Reconnaissance Office, Department of the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office, and/or Space Rapid Capabilities Office.
Business development experience, with deep experience selling to US national security (Space Force, NRO, SDA, etc.) and US Civil Space (NASA, NOAA, etc.)
Experience with design, manufacture, and/or test of optical payload and laser communications.
Experience with space product lines that align R&D investment, technology/product roadmaps, and future opportunities.
Highly organized and able to solve problems independently, with strong attention to detail.
Ability to collaborate effectively with team members having diverse skillsets and expertise.
Ability to communicate complex issues in a digestible manner for customers, staff, and executives.
Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
Sales management experience and familiarity with diverse business functions such as sales, marketing, public relations, finance, and operations.
Extensive awareness of current commercial and government satellite programs.
Experience working with dynamic, geographically disperse teams on fast-paced projects.
Ability to take ownership and action on challenges and step up to manage tough situations while encouraging colleagues and direct reports to do the same.
Practiced with the use of customer relationship management software.
Strong understanding of corporate finance and performance management principles.
Master’s degree in aerospace engineering or related engineering field (electrical, mechanical, computer science, etc.)