Account Manager - Government Relations

ABOUT KRAKEN KINETICS

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY ™ when it matters most.

POSITION SUMMARY

Title: Account Manager – Government Relations

Location : On-site at our Pinehurst, NC area facility

Kraken Kinetics is looking for a driven, high-ownership Account Manager to help us expand our footprint across the Department of War and broader U.S. Government. This is not a passive relationship management role—this is a front-line position for someone who wants to build, move fast, and directly impact mission success in the UxS space.

Reporting to the Head of Strategic Partnerships, you will work directly with government stakeholders—including program offices, operators, and contracting entities—while coordinating internally with product, engineering, and leadership teams. Success in this role requires initiative, strong communication, and the ability to move work forward in a dynamic environment.

Key Responsibilities

Serve as primary point of contact for assigned government accounts

Orchestrate complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives across government, industry, and internal teams, ensuring alignment, execution discipline, and delivery against mission-critical objectives

Coordinate responses to RFIs, RFPs, BAAs, and other government solicitations

Support Compliance Team with requirements related to government contract deliverables

Support logistics for demos, tests, and deployments

Track program status, risks, and user feedback to ensure successful execution

Represent Kraken at industry days, conferences, and customer engagements

Maintain accurate records of engagements, opportunities, and account activity

Ensure compliance with government contracting, reporting requirements, and applicable export control regulations (e.g., ITAR)

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

Advanced degree in relevant field (MA/MS/MBA) or equivalent practical experience

Experience working with USG, DoD, or defense-related programs

Strong communication and relationship management skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive tasks to completion

Experience supporting or contributing to government proposals or solicitations

Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with technical and non-technical teams

Ability to solve complex problems with creative solutions

Proven success in dynamic or shifting operational environments

Ability to travel as needed for customer engagement and events

Preferred Experience:

Experience in UxS, autonomy, robotics, or defense technology sectors

Expertise in the DoD acquisition processes (FAR/DFARS, APFIT, OTA, etc.)

Working knowledge of export control regulations, including ITAR/EAR

Deep understanding of defense policy, resource allocation (PPBE), and acquisition strategy, with ability to navigate and shape outcomes within complex bureaucratic environments

Experience supporting deployments, demonstrations, or operational testing

Demonstrated ability to translate complex operational or technical concepts (High-voltage vs. low-voltage fuzing, terminal engagement concepts, mission planning) into structured frameworks that inform programmatic or strategic decision-making

Experience working in a startup or high-growth environment

SALARY & BENEFITS

Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full-time, on-site exempt position offers an annual salary range of $120,000-$150,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits included :

Generous PTO policy

Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee + dependents).

Vision & dental (100% company-paid)

Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)

Generous 401(k) retirement plan

Company-paid life insurance

Great teammates and well stocked snacks

LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.