Director of Business Development

DescriptionAbout Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc.Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) develops advanced sensing, imaging, and artificial intelligence technologies supporting aerospace, defense, and scientific applications. Our teams combine engineering expertise with cutting edge innovation to develop solutions that support mission critical defense and national security programs.Position OverviewOKSI is seeking a Business Development Director to drive strategic growth and align the company’s advanced technologies with evolving defense and government customer needs. This role focuses on identifying new opportunities, building strong customer relationships, and supporting program development aligned with national defense priorities. The Business Development Director works closely with technical, program, and leadership teams to position OKSI technologies within key defense initiatives and emerging market opportunities.What You Will DoDevelop and execute business development strategies aligned with defense market priorities and the National Defense StrategyBuild and maintain relationships with government customers, defense partners, and strategic stakeholdersIdentify new program opportunities and funding vehicles across defense and government sectorsMonitor market trends, emerging programs, and competitive activity to inform strategic positioningCollaborate with engineering, program management, and leadership teams to align technology capabilities with customer needsSupport proposal development, customer engagement, and strategic opportunity capture effortsManage sales activity including opportunity tracking, reporting, and coordination of deal strategyParticipate in industry events, meetings, and defense community engagements to expand market visibilitySupport negotiations and customer discussions related to partnerships, contracts, and strategic opportunitiesRequirementsExperience working with government programs in sales, business development, or program developmentStrong understanding of defense and military customer requirementsExcellent communication and relationship building skillsStrong organizational and strategic thinking abilitiesAbility to manage multiple priorities and pursue opportunities across complex government programsUnderstanding of government contracting and procurement processesProficiency using CRM tools and data driven customer relationship management systemsWillingness and ability to travel as requiredPreferred QualificationsExperience working with aerospace, defense, or national security programsExperience with DoD innovation pathways such as SBIR, STTR, OTAs, or technology transition programsExperience supporting commercialization, technology transition, or product strategy initiativesFamiliarity with weapon systems, autonomy technologies, sensing systems, or related defense capabilitiesEducation And ExperienceFive or more years of experience supporting government programs in sales, development, or operationsEducational background or professional certifications related to defense strategy, acquisition, or national security programs are preferredCompensation And BenefitsSalary range: $127,692- $172,760 annually.Medical, dental, and vision coverage fully paid by the employer for employees.Three weeks of vacation to start Automatic company contribution to 401K – 5% of earned wages (no matching required)Educational assistance and professional development opportunitiesIn-office (St. Petersburg, FL or Torrance, CA) or remote work (United States) available (position dependent)Additional RequirementsYou must have, or be eligible to obtain, a U.S. Department of Defense Secret security clearance. You will be subject to government security investigations and must be able to access classified information. The inability to obtain a security clearance will result in you being ineligible for the position.We are an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process. The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. This employer participates in E-Verify.This employer participates in E-Verify.