Director of Sales, Space-based Optics

Job description

DIRECTOR OF SALES, SPACE-BASED OPTICS Location: Los Angeles, CA (Remote possible for exceptional candidates) Reports To: Vice President of Global Sales ABOUT OBSERVABLE SPACE At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions. We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded computing, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products. From advanced ground stations, on orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space. Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. ABOUT THE ROLE Observable Space is seeking a strategic and execution-oriented Director of Sales to lead commercial and government growth for our space-based optical solutions, both domestically and internationally. This role will drive revenue generation across government, defense, commercial aerospace, and emerging space markets by developing and building customer relationships, go-to-market strategies, and translating advanced optical sensing capabilities into mission-critical customer value. The ideal candidate combines an innovative approach and experience in strategic sales, capture management, and relationship development; based on a deep understanding of company objectives and roadmap. The candidate will combine deep experience in complex technical sales with a strong understanding of the space ecosystem, as well as government and prime contracting processes. You will work cross-functionally with engineering, product, and executive leadership to shape market opportunities, shape requirements for both government and commercial partners in the developmental stage of requirements, and close complex deals that accelerate the future of Observable Space. WHAT YOU WILL DO - Collaboratively develop and execute the global sales strategy for space-based optical solutions business. - Develop and manage a qualified pipeline across government, defense, intelligence, civil space, and commercial sectors. - Build and manage strategic accounts, partnerships, and sales opportunities within the space-based optical market - Identify new market opportunities for optical payloads, space domain awareness, remote sensing, and related capabilities. - Leverage these relationships to qualify and close revenue opportunities within the defense and commercial space sectors. - Manage the client journey from early technical discussions through contract negotiation and award. - Collaborate across the organization, to include engineering, marketing, communication, and production to ensure market requirements align with product roadmaps, messaging, and future product development. - Collaborate with organizational leadership to ensure pricing strategy, negotiations, and subsequent contract development aligns with Observable Space objectives. - Work within the existing sales team to increase sales and product placement for the full portfolio of Observable Space solutions. WHAT YOU'LL BRING - A self-motivated and self-driven approach to sales strategy and execution. - Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Aerospace, or related field; advanced degree preferred. - 10+ years of sales experience in aerospace, defense technology, or related high-technology industries. - Proven track record of closing complex, high-value enterprise or government contracts. - Experience selling advanced technical solutions into U.S. Government, DoD, IC, commercial space, or international markets. - Demonstrated ability to successfully manage strategic sales cycles and high-value strategic accounts. - Experience with U.S. government procurement processes, defense programs, and prime contractor ecosystems. - Proven experience in developing technical requirements and concepts into effective value propositions. - Experience leading cross-functional capture and proposal efforts. - Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience with the space industry or Space Domain Awareness architectures. - Familiarity with government and commercial aerospace. - Background in both hardware and software-enabled communications platforms. - Experience scaling within growing sales organizations in emerging technology markets. WHY JOIN US Join a team building the next generation of space communications infrastructure. You will help shape how data moves across space, enabling resilient connectivity for national security, scientific discovery, and commercial innovation. This is an opportunity to work at the forefront of aerospace technology with a mission-driven team transforming the future of orbital communications. WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT HERE - A front-row seat at one of the most exciting companies in space technology. - The opportunity to build and scale a global operations organization from the ground up. - A collaborative culture that rewards initiative, curiosity, and results. - Competitive compensation, stock options, and benefits that reflect our growth and ambition