Business Development Manager

At Rugged Robotics, we’re on a mission to modernize commercial construction with innovative, reliable solutions that transform how projects are built. Through automation and precision, we empower crews to deliver work faster, safer, and smarter. Joining our team means more than just building and operating robots; it’s an opportunity to help reshape an industry that touches every community.

We’re looking for strategic thinkers and relationship builders who are ready to take ownership, collaborate across teams, and drive adoption of breakthrough technology that is redefining construction layout.

The sales business development team bridges innovation and impact by translating Rugged’s robotic layout technology into real-world value for our customers. As a Business Development Manager, you will identify the right partners, make the case for change, and guide customers through every phase of adoption from the first conversation to full rollout.

• Identify and engage target customers whose operations align with Rugged’s mission, value proposition, and technology.
• Lead outreach and relationship-building efforts through industry events, networks, and direct engagement to generate qualified opportunities.
• Develop and validate business cases that clearly demonstrate ROI, efficiency gains, and project impact.
• Manage the full sales cycle from initial discovery through contract execution, coordinating across internal and customer teams.
• Collaborate with operations and leadership to ensure successful pilots, drive enterprise-level adoption, and expand accounts across customer portfolios.

• A confident communicator who builds trust with executives, project leaders, and field teams.
• Analytical and structured, able to develop and defend data-driven business cases.
• Energized by early-stage environments that reward curiosity, adaptability, and persistence.
• Motivated by long-term relationships and tangible customer outcomes.
• Comfortable working across teams to connect customer insights with operational and product improvements.

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in engineering, design, construction management, sales or business-related degrees  
• 4+ years of experience in business development, sales, or partnerships within an industrial, construction, or technology-driven field.
• Demonstrated ability to present to senior executives and manage complex stakeholder discussions.
• Authorized to work in the U.S. with the ability to travel to our HQ in Houston, TX, customer sites, and industry events at least 25% of the time.

• 2+ years of experience in management consulting, investment banking, or strategic planning and/or background in a startup or high-growth company.
• Experience with emerging construction technologies such as robotics, BIM, surveying and/or an understanding of construction operations, field processes, and project management.
• Proven success managing full-cycle sales processes and long-term customer engagements.
• Experience leading pilots or rollouts of new technology in B2B settings.