Technical Business Development Manager

Optopax

Technical Business Development Manager

San Jose, CA
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    Opportunity for advancement

    Bonus based on performance

    Paid time off

    About Us

    Optopax is a Silicon Valley–based design and OEM manufacturing company delivering integrated AI imaging solutions—from concept through prototyping to production. We specialize in AI-enabled camera modules, precision optics spanning UV to LWIR, and custom embedded imaging systems powering applications in robotics, autonomous vehicles, submersible imaging, biomedical instrumentation, AR/VR, and optical computing.

    Join our small, global team headquartered in San Jose, CA, and help us engineer the next generation of camera solutions that transform how machines see—through custom optics, advanced sensor integration, and embedded AI vision platforms.

    About the Role

    We are seeking a Technical Business Development Manager to drive revenue growth, strategic partnerships, and customer acquisition across the optics and imaging ecosystem. Reporting to the VP of Business Development and working closely with our CEO and engineering leadership, this role blends strategic sales, technical understanding, market insight, and account management throughout contract execution. This role is located in San Jose, CA, with a hybrid work model (minimum of 2-3 days in office for regular onsite collaboration and as needed for customer meetings).

    What success looks like in the first 90 days:

    Develop a clear understanding of Optopax’s technology stack, customer value propositions, and competitive positioning.

    Build and qualify a pipeline of high-value opportunities in target verticals (e.g., automotive, robotics, defense, and biomedical imaging).

    Lead technical-commercial engagements through the full sales cycle, demonstrating fluency in optical and imaging system concepts.

    Advance a lead to contract or prototype phase to contract or prototype phase.

    Take the lead as the primary point of contact on at least 1 customer project that is already at contract execution stage.

    What You’ll Do

    Develop and execute strategies to expand Optopax’s customer base and enter new markets

    Manage full sales cycle: prospecting, qualification, pricing, negotiation, and contract closure

    Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring long-term partnerships and repeat business

    Successfully oversee customer projects during the contract execution stage, ensuring alignment with agreed-upon deliverables and timelines, including leading all client communications and relationship management as the primary point of contact

    Collaborate closely with engineering teams to align solutions with customer requirements and technical trade-offs, and to ensure project progress and successful delivery

    Create targeted marketing materials and value propositions for specific industries

    Identify and secure strategic partnerships with OEMs, system integrators, and industry players

    Provide market feedback and insights to shape product and business strategy

    What You’ll Bring

    Required

    Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Optics, Physics, or related field

    Experienced in technical sales, business development, or account management within optics, photonics, or imaging systems. Will consider less experienced candidates if

    Proven track record of meeting/exceeding sales targets in a technical environment

    Technical knowledge of optics/optomechanical/optoelectronic system experience (e.g., CMOS cameras, infrared imaging, optical lenses, CMI manufacturing)

    Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills

    Strong account management skills and software proficiency, including CRM

    Ability to manage complex sales cycles and senior-level relationships

    Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment

    Willingness to travel internationally as needed (estimated up to 25% of time)

    Preferred

    Advanced degree in Engineering, Optics, Physics, or related field (e.g. MBA, MSc, or similar)

    Established network in optics, photonics, or AI vision sectors.

    Familiarity with ISO standards, quality systems, and regulatory requirements

    Knowledge of optical design methods, optical manufacturing methods, and optical test stations.

    What We Offer

    Opportunity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment

    Chance to make a significant impact on company growth

    Collaborative and supportive work culture

    Compensation range of $100,000-150,000 USD base with commission and bonus opportunities

    Flexible work from home options available.