Now Hiring - Nira, Inc. - Professional Services Business Development Specialist in Washington, DC

Full description of the position

About NIRA NIRA helps government agencies use data and technology to make better decisions, improve compliance, and increase transparency. Our solutions support mission-critical programs across federal civilian agencies, with a strong focus on data analytics, risk management, and operational efficiency. We are growing our government business and are seeking a GovCon Business Development Specialist who excels at building relationships, connecting people, and advancing opportunities through strong stakeholder engagement.Role Overview This role is well-suited for a mid-level to mid/senior GovCon professional with experience navigating federal acquisition and supporting business development and capture efforts. You'll work closely with internal technical, proposal, and leadership teams to identify and pursue new government contracting opportunities. You will also serve as a connector and relationship-builder -someone who can open doors, establish credibility with stakeholders, create momentum with partners, and translate relationships into a qualified pipeline. This position is ideal for someone who is self- motivated, proactive, and comfortable owning their work, while also being a strong team player who collaborates effectively across functions.Key Responsibilities*Stakeholder EngagementRelationship Building * Build and maintain trusted relationships with government stakeholders, industry partners, and prime contractors * Proactively make connections between NIRA capabilities and agency mission needs through ongoing outreach and engagement * Represent NIRA in external engagements, including industry days, conferences, customer meetings, and partner discussions * Strengthen NIRA's visibility and reputation by consistently following up, staying present, and nurturing relationships over time Business DevelopmentOpportunity Identification * Identify, qualify, and track federal contracting opportunities aligned with NIRA's solutions * Monitor opportunities through SAM.gov, GovWin, agency forecasts, and other market research tools * Build and maintain a qualified pipeline, with emphasis on DOT, DoW/defense programs, HHS, and related federal agencies * Support account planning activities (e.g., stakeholder maps, relationship plans, touchpoint calendars) CaptureProposal Support * Support capture activities including opportunity shaping, customer research, and competitive analysis * Collaborate with proposal teams on RFIs, RFPs, and white papers * Contribute to win themes and solution positioning aligned with agency missions and priorities * Help coordinate and drive internal capture actions to maintain forward motion and accountability Partner DevelopmentTeaming * Assist with partner identification, outreach, and relationship development * Support teaming strategies and coordination of teaming agreements (NDAs, TAAs, etc.) * Help maintain active partner communication and collaboration throughout capture and proposal cycles MarketCompetitive Intelligence * Research agency programs, incumbents, contract vehicles, and recompetes * Track competitors and market trends relevant to NIRA's offerings * Maintain accurate, current opportunity and contact data in CRM or pipeline tracking tools ProcessCompliance * Follow internal business development and gate review processes * Ensure BD activities align with FAR-based procurement requirements and internal compliance standards Required Qualifications * Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience * 3 -6+ years of experience in government contracting business development, capture, or proposal support * Solid understanding of the federal acquisition lifecycle * Experience supporting or selling into DOT, DoD/defense programs, HHS, or similar federal agencies * Familiarity with GovCon tools such as SAM.gov, GovWin, FPDS, or similar * Strong written, verbal, and organizational skills * Demonstrated ability to engage stakeholders, build relationships, and maintain a professional network * Ability to work independently, stay organized, manage priorities, and follow through on commitments * Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively as part of a cross-functional team Preferred Qualifications * Experience in a small to mid-sized GovCon, SaaS, or data/technology-focused company * Familiarity with contract vehicles such as GSA MAS, IDIQs, and BPAs * Experience supporting prime-subcontractor teaming arrangements * Strong presence and comfort in external-facing settings (events, meetings, briefings) * Comfortable working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment Why NIRA * Work on mission-driven government programs * Collaborative and supportive team culture * Opportunity to make a direct impact on GovCon growth * Competitive compensation and benefits