Business Development Manager - Commercial Markets

ABOUT US Foundry Robotics is building an AI-native robotics manufacturing company focused on deploying advanced assembly and production capability for leading robotics companies and national-security-critical hardware. Basically, we're building robots that build robots. We are reimagining manufacturing through advanced robotics. Our mission is to rebuild the American manufacturing industry as an AI-first, assembly-focused, dual-use contract manufacturer. We aim to empower manufacturers with intelligent, efficient, and adaptable robotic systems that redefine productivity and quality. As a senior leader on our manufacturing team, you will have a direct and significant impact on our product, culture, and ultimate success. This role is 100% in-person at our office in Emeryville, CA. THE ROLE We are seeking a driven, technically curious Business Development Manager to expand our commercial business across robotics, AI infrastructure, energy, industrial automation, and emerging hardware markets. Working directly with the Head of Commercial Go-to-Market, you will identify new markets, develop strategic customer relationships, and convert early opportunities into long-term manufacturing partnerships. You will engage founders, engineering leaders, and executives building the next generation of physical products. Success requires strong commercial instincts, technical curiosity, and comfort navigating complex B2B sales cycles. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Drive New Business Development - Identify and pursue high-value commercial opportunities across robotics, AI infrastructure, energy, power systems, and industrial automation. - Build relationships with founders, CTOs, engineering leaders, operations executives, and supply chain decision-makers. - Own opportunities from prospecting and qualification through proposals, negotiations, and contract execution. - Develop Strategic Markets and Partnerships - Map emerging hardware markets and identify companies moving from prototypes to production. - Build relationships with OEMs, technology partners, and system integrators. - Represent Foundry Robotics at industry events, conferences, and customer meetings - Translate Technical Needs into Commercial Opportunities - Partner with engineering, manufacturing, and operations to understand customer requirements. - Support RFQs, feasibility assessments, cost models, and commercial proposals. - Develop opportunities from pilot builds into recurring, higher-volume production programs. - Build and Execute GTM Strategy. - Develop account lists, targeted outreach campaigns, and repeatable qualification processes. - pipeline forecasts, account plans, and accurate deal progression. - Bring customer insights into commercial and manufacturing strategy. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR Founder mentality: We love people who build like it’s their own company. You move fast, take ownership, and find a way through when the path isn’t obvious. You have the drive to make big things happen and the judgment to take smart risks along the way. If you prefer a clearly defined lane, a predictable pace, and all the answers before you start, there’s nothing wrong with that—but Foundry might not be the right fit. - 4-8 years in business development, technical sales, strategic partnerships, or commercial roles in B2B - technology. - Demonstrated success originating opportunities and advancing complex sales cycles. - Understanding of hardware, engineering-driven organizations, or industrial technology. - Ability to engage technical and executive stakeholders with strong communication and commercial - judgment. - Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced startup environment; willing to travel as needed NICE TO HAVE (NOT REQUIRED) - Experience in robotics, industrial automation, electronics manufacturing, contract manufacturing, or - advanced hardware. - Exposure to AI infrastructure, power electronics, energy systems, or autonomous machines. - Familiarity with BOMs, RFQs, NRE, manufacturing economics, and production ramps. - Experience selling to engineering, operations, or supply chain teams. - Bay Area hardware ecosystem relationships or early-stage startup experience. WHY JOIN US? This is one of the only places where world-class manufacturing operators, mechanical engineers, robotics researchers, and software engineers sit in the same room — building production systems together. We are committed to being deeply embedded in the U.S. industrial base. Our focus is simple: build adaptive robotic assembly systems that make American manufacturing scalable, resilient, and competitive again. If you want to run a mature, well-defined commercial org, this may not be the role. If you want to build the commercial engine that brings AI-driven manufacturing to every industrial and energy customer in America — this is it. The base salary range for this full-time position in the location of Emeryville, CA is: $150,000—$250,000 USD Compensation packages at Foundry Robotics for eligible roles include base salary, equity, and benefits. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position, determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, interview performance, and relevant education or training. Foundry Robotics employees in eligible roles are also granted equity based compensation, subject to Board of Director approval. You'll also receive benefits including, but not limited to: Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage, and generous PTO. Foundry Robotics is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.