Business Development Associate - AEC

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 Micros...