Application Guide

How to Apply for Business Development Account Manager (Defense Programs)

at Velo3D

🏢 About Velo3D

Velo3D is a pioneer in metal additive manufacturing, known for its innovative support-free printing technology that enables complex geometries previously impossible to produce. The company is focused on high-performance applications in aerospace, defense, and energy, making it an exciting place for engineers who want to work on cutting-edge technology that directly impacts national security and clean energy.

About This Role

This role is the primary liaison between Velo3D and defense clients, managing programs from initial concept through production. You'll work closely with engineering teams to solve complex part challenges, leveraging Velo3D's unique capabilities to accelerate adoption of additive manufacturing in defense applications. It's a high-impact position where you'll drive mission-critical projects for the DoD and prime contractors.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day starts with a check-in with defense clients to review program milestones and address any technical blockers. You'll then collaborate with internal engineering teams to optimize part designs for printability, followed by updating project documentation and customer acceptance criteria. Afternoons might involve CAD work to modify geometries or preparing a proposal for a new defense program, ending with a status report to leadership.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Velo3D Is Looking For

  • A seasoned engineer with 8+ years in mechanical or aerospace engineering, who has deep experience in additive manufacturing and understands the stringent requirements of defense programs (e.g., ITAR, MIL-SPEC, quality standards).
  • Proficient in CAD software (Solidworks, Siemens NX, AutoCAD, or CATIA) and comfortable designing complex geometries for metal 3D printing, including lattice structures and internal channels.
  • A customer-facing project manager who can lead cross-functional teams, manage timelines, and communicate technical concepts clearly to both engineers and defense procurement officers.
  • Self-motivated and comfortable working remotely, with a track record of managing complex, long-cycle programs and driving adoption of new manufacturing technologies.

📝 Tips for Applying to Velo3D

1

Highlight specific defense program experience (e.g., DoD contracts, ITAR compliance, security clearances) in your resume and cover letter.

2

Quantify your impact in previous roles—e.g., 'Reduced part lead time by 40% using additive manufacturing' or 'Managed a $5M program from concept to production.'

3

Showcase your CAD skills by mentioning specific complex geometries you've designed for additive manufacturing (e.g., conformal cooling channels, lightweight lattice structures).

4

Tailor your resume to emphasize program management and customer-facing experience, not just technical design. Use keywords from the job description like 'account manager,' 'program management,' and 'customer acceptance criteria.'

5

Include a portfolio or examples of successful additive manufacturing projects you've led, especially if they involved defense or aerospace applications.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for additive manufacturing and its potential to transform defense supply chains and part performance.', "Specific examples of how you've managed complex programs from concept to production, including challenges overcome and results achieved.", 'Your technical expertise in CAD and additive manufacturing, especially with materials and geometries relevant to defense (e.g., high-temperature alloys, lightweight structures).', 'Your ability to work in a fast-paced, remote environment and collaborate with engineering teams and defense clients.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read about Velo3D's Sapphire printers and the company's patented SupportFree technology—understand how it differs from traditional metal AM.
  • → Review recent press releases or case studies about Velo3D's defense contracts (e.g., with the US Air Force or Navy).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the key challenges in defense additive manufacturing: certification, qualification, and supply chain security.
  • → Look up Velo3D's leadership team and their backgrounds to understand the company culture and strategic direction.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you managed a complex additive manufacturing program for a defense or aerospace client. What were the key challenges and how did you resolve them?
2 How do you ensure compliance with ITAR and other defense regulations when working with additive manufacturing?
3 Explain a complex geometry you designed in CAD for metal 3D printing. What software did you use and why was that design approach chosen?
4 How do you handle conflicting priorities between a customer's requirements and manufacturing constraints? Give an example.
5 What experience do you have with Velo3D's technology or similar support-free metal printing systems? How would you pitch Velo3D to a skeptical defense client?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus only on technical design skills—emphasize program management and customer relationship experience, which are critical for this account manager role.
  • Avoid generic statements about 'passion for 3D printing' without linking it to defense applications or specific Velo3D capabilities.
  • Don't ignore the remote nature of the role—demonstrate your ability to work independently and communicate effectively across time zones.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Velo3D!

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