Business Development Associate - AEC (Finance)

DESCRIPTION

Michael Baker International is seeking a Business Development Associate (BDA) to play a pivotal role in driving strategic growth across Los Angeles County.

This position is ideal for a proactive, relationship-driven professional who thrives in team environments and is passionate about building client relationships and winning impactful projects. The role requires someone who is results-oriented and will work collaboratively to connect people, ideas, and opportunities across multiple service areas such as environmental planning, transportation, structures, and water.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Market Intelligence & Opportunity Tracking

• Partner closely with regional and local leaders to implement tailored business development strategies.
• Engage in industry organizations to establish business relationships, enhance brand visibility, and gain market intelligence.
• Conduct in-depth research into client programs/funding and upcoming projects to position the firm for success.
• Identify new client prospects and project opportunities while analyzing the needs of existing and repeat clients.
• Maintain and prioritize pursuits using sales tracking tools while ensuring transparency regarding opportunity status.

Capture Strategy & Positioning

• Facilitate focused client pre-positioning interactions and teaming partner meetings.
• Build and manage teaming relationships with consultants and subconsultants.
• Lead pursuit planning discussions to develop and execute strategies that increase win probability.
• Work with technical experts and marketing staff to develop gap analyses, competitor assessments, and shape win themes.
• Facilitate go/no-go decisions to ensure strategic alignment and resource optimization.

Proposal & Interview Development

• Guide development of strategic, high-impact proposals with input from technical teams, marketing, and leadership.
• Coordinate with the Proposal Development Team to ensure timely and high-quality submittals.
• Translate capture strategies into compelling narratives that reflect team capabilities and client-focused solutions.
• Draft and refine proposal sections that respond to intelligence gathered and client 'hot button' issues.
• Provide quality control and ensure consistency throughout the proposal process.
• Lead pursuit teams through the interview process, including presentation development, Q&A preparation, and debriefs.

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in the A/E/C industry, with a focus on collaborative business development.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire cross-functional teams under tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal leadership style with exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent marketing instincts, strategic thinking, and situational awareness.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator) preferred.
• Ethical, resourceful, and committed to excellence in team performance and client service.

COMPENSATION

The salary range for this position is $107,000 - $154,000. Salary will be determined based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and alignment with the responsibilities of the role.

BENEFITS

• Medical, dental, vision insurance
• 401K Retirement Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
• Professional and personal development
• Generous paid time off
• Commuter and wellness benefits
• Flexible Work Schedules

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Michael Baker International is seeking aBusiness Development Associate (BDA)to play a pivotal role in driving strategic growth across Los Angeles County. This position is ideal for a proactive, relationship-driven professional who thrives in team environments and is passionate about building client relationships and winning impactful projects. The role requires someone who is results-oriented and will work collaboratively to connect people, ideas, and opportunities across multiple service areas such as environmental planning, transportation, structures, and water.