Head of Business Development - Missiles and Hypersonics

Company Machina Labs is a smart manufacturing company backed by major investors in AI and Deep Tech (Innovation Endeavors, Nvidia NVentures, Lockheed Martin Ventures), founded in 2019 and based in Los Angeles, CA. We are on a mission to build the factory of the future through the development of modular manufacturing solutions that allow our customers to rapidly produce and iterate on their designs utilizing our robotic sheet metal forming platform. Using our first-of-its-kind software and robotics solution, we are delivering unseen innovation to industries such as aerospace, automotive and space exploration. At Machina Labs, we believe anyone can become a crafts(wo)man and bring that attitude to our work every day, come and join us!
RoleMachina Labs is seeking a strategic, well-connected business development leader to drive growth in our missile and hypersonic programs. This role is focused on securing qualification and production contracts with major Primes and shaping our work with the DoD and emerging defense tech companies in next-generation long-range weapon systems.

Responsibilities

• Own and execute business development strategy for missile and hypersonic vertical, with a focus on long-cycle, high-value production programs.
• Establish and expand relationships with key stakeholders in missile and hypersonic programs across top defense Primes.
• Secure feasibility, development, and qualification contracts with DoD entities and defense contractors.
• Navigate funding and contracting pathways including RDT&E and PoR (Program of Record) transitions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with technical and leadership teams to align on solution development and program engagement strategy.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of business development and/or program leadership experience within missile systems or advanced weapons platforms.
• Deep familiarity with the BD lifecycle inside top Primes (e.g., Lockheed, NGC, RTX, Boeing), tied to manufacturing and production wins.
• Proven ability to move programs from R&D through to production, including qualification, testing, and contract structuring.
• Knowledge of DoD acquisition and funding mechanisms for missile and hypersonic development.
• Highly self-directed, with the ability to operate in a fast-paced startup environment and influence complex, long-term decisions.

Preferred Experience

• Relationships within specific missile and hypersonic programs such as JASSM, LRASM, AMRAAM, Tomahawk, StormBreaker, and emerging hypersonic platforms.
• Familiarity with MDA, Air Force Armament Directorate, Navy/Army missile and weapons development programs, and relevant Gov Affairs or R&E channels.

Machina Labs is an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with state and federal law. 
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