Head of Business Development

Company: Zeno Power
Location: Washington
Posted on: March 1, 2025

Job Description:

Company OverviewZeno Power's (Zeno) mission is to provide clean, plug-and-play power anywhere in the universe. To do that, Zeno is developing nuclear batteries that generate carbon-free, resilient power for decades, utilizing material found in nuclear waste. Zeno's technology is both light-weight and cost-effective compared to historic nuclear batteries, opening up broad market opportunities in space and terrestrially. To bring this breakthrough technology to market, Zeno is seeking out purpose-driven and innovative professionals who are comfortable working in a startup environment. Team members will have a direct impact in enabling commercial and national security missions from the depths of our oceans, to the surface of the moon, and in austere environments here on Earth.Zeno is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.Head of Business DevelopmentZeno Power is seeking a Head of Business Development to drive the commercialization and scaling of our nuclear batteries across government and commercial markets. This role is responsible for leading the transition of government-funded R&D contracts into full-scale production contracts, securing key partnerships, and shaping Zeno's go-to-market strategy. Reporting to the CEO, the ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial leader with deep experience in government procurement cycles, strong technical acumen, and a track record of securing major contracts and partnerships.In this role you will:

• Lead the transition of prototype/R&D contracts into full-scale production contracts, working with key government partners, including the U.S. Navy, U.S. Space Force, Intelligence Community, and NASA.
• Spearhead and drive Zeno's business growth into commercial markets, with a primary focus on maritime and space sectors.
• Develop and manage relationships with DOD, NASA, Intelligence Community, and commercial customers to develop and mature new business opportunities, ensuring a clear path to scalable revenue.
• Oversee the end-to-end proposal development process, including capture strategy, pricing alignment, competitive positioning, and compliance.
• Work closely with engineering, product, supply chain, and regulatory teams to align product roadmaps with market needs.
• Provide regular updates to executive leadership and investors on business development progress, revenue growth, and strategic partnerships.Key Qualifications and Skills
  • 10+ years of experience in business development, government sales, or strategic partnerships in defense, aerospace, energy, or advanced technology sectors.
  • Proven track record of transitioning prototype/R&D programs into full-scale production contracts (e.g., SBIR Phase III, Programs of Record, IDIQs).
  • Deep understanding of DoD and NASA procurement cycles, budgeting, and contracting mechanisms.
  • Experience working with defense primes, government agencies, and commercial customers to bring advanced technology to market.
  • Strong technical acumen and ability to explain complex technologies to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth startup environment.
  • Must hold or be able to maintain a TS/SCI security clearance.Preferred Qualifications
    • Active TS/SCI clearance.
    • Strong network within DoD, NASA, and commercial space/maritime markets.
    • Understanding of export controls, regulatory frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies for deploying nuclear or advanced energy technologies.Job Functions
      • Position requires in-office presence in Washington, D.C. (Mt. Vernon/Chinatown) on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; remote work is optional on Mondays and Fridays.
      • Travel: Travel is required, 25%-50%
      • Motor Abilities: Sitting and/or standing for extended periods, bending/stooping, grasping/gripping, fine motor control (hands)
      • Physical exertion and/or requirements: Minimal, with ability to safely lift up to 15 pounds
      • Repetitive work: Prolonged
      • Special Senses: Visual and audio focused work
      • Work Conditions: Stairs, typing/keyboard, standard and/or sitting working environment of > 8 hrs./dayCompensation and BenefitsThe anticipated salary band for this position is $180,000-250,000. The final job level and compensation will be determined by various factors such as a candidate's relevant work experience, years of relevant experience, skills, qualifications, certifications, and other business considerations.In addition to competitive compensation, we also offer a generous benefits package, which includes:
        • Stock options
        • Flexible paid time off
        • 401k plan with employer match
        • 16 weeks of paid family leave
        • Employer HSA contributions
        • Transit benefits to put toward commuting expenses
        • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
        • Relocation assistancePhysical Demands and Work EnvironmentThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.NoteThis job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" relationship.Export ControlApplicants for employment at Zeno Power must be a U.S. person. The term "U.S. Person" means (i) a U.S citizen or U.S. national; or (ii) any natural person who is a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (i.e., holds a Green Card), as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) or as a "protected individual" defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) (i.e., admitted as a refugee or is granted asylum).
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Keywords: Zeno Power, Washington DC , Head of Business Development, Other , Washington, DC