Ascend Engineering

Role Description We are looking for a Business Development Lead who understands the UAV ecosystem and can help originate and grow relationships across the defense, aerospace, and robotics industries. This role is ideal for someone who has experience selling complex technical services or technology products and can turn industry relationships into real engineering engagements. ** MUST HAVE PERMANENT RESIDENCE IN US ** - Identify and originate new opportunities with UAV manufacturers, robotics companies, and defense contractors - Build and manage a pipeline of engineering services opportunities - Develop relationships with decision-makers across UAV companies, robotics firms, and defense technology organizations - Position Ascend Engineering as a technical partner and subcontractor on larger UAV and autonomy programs - Work with Ascend's engineering team to scope projects, shape proposals, and close deals - Identify opportunities where Ascend's expertise in PX4, QGroundControl, and UAV autonomy software can accelerate customer platforms - Identify and pursue opportunities connected to government programs, defense primes, or public-sector UAV initiatives when relevant - Represent Ascend Engineering at industry conferences and ecosystem events Qualifications - 5+ years experience in business development or sales within UAV, robotics, aerospace, or defense technology - Demonstrated ability to source opportunities and close technical services or technology deals - Strong understanding of drone platforms, autonomy systems, or robotics - Existing network within UAV manufacturers, robotics companies, or defense technology firms - Comfortable working with highly technical engineering teams - Self-directed with strong ownership of outcomes and the ability to originate deals independently - Excellent communication skills and professional presence - Some familiarity with the U.S. government contracting ecosystem, including working with primes, subcontractors, or defense-related programs Bonus Experience - Experience selling engineering services, autonomy software, or robotics technology - Familiarity with PX4, QGroundControl, ArduPilot, or UAV autonomy platforms - Experience with SBIR/STTR, OTAs, or defense innovation programs - Background in robotics, aerospace, or engineering