Business Development Manager- Grid Automation

Job Title: Business Development Manager – Grid Automation & Utility Communications

Job Description

The electric grid is evolving fast, and utilities need partners who understand engineering, automation, and communications infrastructure to help them modernize with confidence. We’re looking for a Business Development Manager who thrives at the intersection of engineering services, telecom networks, and utility operations and is motivated by building long-term, high-impact customer relationships.

In this role, you’ll be on the front lines of grid modernization, partnering with electric utilities, cooperatives, and municipalities to deliver solutions that improve reliability, automation, and communications performance across the grid.

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What You’ll Do

· Own and expand strategic utility relationships across investor-owned utilities, cooperatives, and municipalities, driving sustained revenue growth for our Grid Automation practice.

· Identify and pursue new business opportunities in grid automation, distribution modernization, and utility communications (fiber, wireless, and hybrid networks).

· Engage utility executives, engineering leaders, and operations teams to understand real-world challenges and position solutions that deliver measurable business and operational value.

· Lead complex pursuits end-to-end, including opportunity strategy, solution positioning, proposal coordination, and executive-level presentations.

· Represent the organization at industry conferences, technical forums, and regional utility associations, expanding your network and staying ahead of market trends.

· Track and interpret regulatory, technology, and investment trends shaping utility spend in automation, digital substations, fiber, and wireless communications.

· Collaborate closely with engineering and delivery teams to shape service offerings that align with customer demand and competitive market conditions.

· Build and manage a healthy, forecastable pipeline, providing accurate reporting and revenue projections.

· Develop and support strategic partnerships with OEMs, system integrators, and telecom providers to strengthen solution depth and market reach.

· Act as a trusted ambassador for the firm, championing our value proposition with consistency and credibility across all engagements.

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What You Bring

· Proven experience in business development, account management, or technical sales within:

o Engineering services

o Electric utilities or grid modernization

o Telecommunications (fiber, wireless, private networks)

o Infrastructure or industrial services

· A strong working knowledge of utility operations, distribution automation, and/or communications infrastructure supporting modern grids.

· Demonstrated success building executive-level relationships and navigating complex, multi-stakeholder sales cycles.

· Ability to translate technical solutions into clear business outcomes that resonate with utility leaders.

· Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with confidence engaging both technical and non-technical audiences.

· Willingness to travel for customer meetings, industry events, and conferences.

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Why This Role

· Work with Fortune 500 and regional utility customers modernizing critical infrastructure

· Sell high-impact engineering and communications solutions that directly improve grid reliability and resilience

· Partner with deep technical experts while owning the front-end strategy and customer relationship

· Play a visible role in a growing practice at the center of energy transition and digital

REFCR2023

This is a Permanent position based out of Detroit, MI.

The pay range for this position is $130000.00 - $160000.00/yr.

Minimum 4 Weeks Paid Time-Off, 6 Paid Holidays, 401(k) w/company match, M/D/V Benefits We reserve the right to pay above or below the posted wage based on factors unrelated to sex, race, or any other protected classification. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. This temporary role may be eligible for the following:
• Medical, Dental & Vision
• 401(k)/Roth
• Basic/Supplemental Life & AD&D
• Short and long-term disability
• HSA & DCFSA
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company Paid Time off or State Sick Leave

This is a fully remote position.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 15, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $130,000 - $160,000