Business Development Manager- Grid Automation

Job Title: Business Development Manager – Grid Automation

Job Description

The Business Development Manager for Grid Automation drives growth at the intersection of electric utilities, advanced grid technologies, and telecommunications infrastructure. This role owns strategic customer relationships, uncovers emerging market opportunities, and positions the organization as a trusted partner in modernizing the electric grid. You will work closely with utility executives, engineering teams, and technology partners to understand operational challenges and align solutions that enhance reliability, automation, and communications performance.

Responsibilities

• Own and grow strategic relationships with electric utilities, cooperatives, municipalities, and key technology partners to drive revenue growth for the grid automation practice.
• Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities in grid automation, distribution modernization, and utility communications networks.
• Develop a deep understanding of customer operational challenges and align solutions that support reliability, automation, and digital transformation.
• Lead the full pursuit lifecycle, including opportunity strategy, competitive positioning, proposal coordination, and executive-level engagement.
• Represent the organization at industry conferences, technical forums, and regional utility associations to expand market visibility and uncover emerging trends.
• Monitor regulatory, technology, and market developments that influence utility investment in automation, fiber, and wireless communications.
• Collaborate with the Grid Automation team to shape and refine solution offerings that meet customer needs and reflect competitive market conditions.
• Maintain an active pipeline of qualified opportunities and provide accurate forecasting, reporting, and revenue projections.
• Support and develop strategic partnerships with OEMs, integrators, and telecommunications providers to strengthen solution offerings and extend market reach.
• Champion the organization’s value proposition and ensure consistent, compelling messaging across customer engagements and industry events.
• Engage in outside sales activities, including cold calling and targeted outreach, to build and expand a high-quality prospect base.
• Manage key accounts to ensure customer satisfaction, identify upsell and cross-sell opportunities, and foster long-term partnerships.

Essential Skills

• Experience in business development, account management, or technical sales within electric utilities, grid automation, telecommunications, or related infrastructure sectors.
• Strong understanding of utility operations and distribution automation, including how grid automation supports reliability and modernization.
• Knowledge of fiber and wireless communications technologies as they relate to utility and grid modernization initiatives.
• Proven ability to build and maintain executive-level relationships and manage complex, multi-stakeholder pursuits.
• Ability to translate technical concepts and grid automation solutions into clear business value for utility customers.
• Demonstrated skills in sales, outside sales, and business development within technology or infrastructure-focused markets.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills with the ability to influence decision-makers.
• Experience with account management practices, including pipeline management, forecasting, and revenue reporting.
• Expereince in telecommunications sales or utility communications networks.
• Willingness and ability to travel for customer meetings, conferences, and industry events.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with OEMs, integrators, and telecommunications providers in a partnership or channel-focused capacity.
• Familiarity with regulatory environments and market trends affecting utility investment in automation, fiber, and wireless communications.
• Comfort representing an organization at industry conferences, technical forums, and regional associations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineering and grid automation specialists.
• Skill in cold calling and proactive prospecting to build new customer relationships.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple opportunities, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations.
• Self-motivated, growth-oriented mindset with a focus on long-term customer value and strategic account development.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Springfield, IL.

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 May 12, 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