Business Development Representative, Government

Handshake

Government BDR expanding Handshake’s early-career recruitment platform across federal and state & local agencies. Building stakeholder relationships, navigating budgets, and developing early-stage sales pipeline.

Posted 8/4/2026full-timeRemote • 🇺🇸 United StatesJunior💰 $88,000 - $115,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in business development and account management within the federal and state & local government sectors, with a strong ability to navigate complex organizational structures and government contracting processes. Proficient in tailoring communication and messaging to align with government priorities and regulations while fostering relationships with key decision-makers.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Business DevelopmentAccount ManagementGovernment Contracting ProcessesRecruitment TechnologiesStakeholder Engagement

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Business DevelopmentAccount ManagementGovernment Contracting ProcessesRecruitment TechnologiesLong Sales CyclesGovernment BudgetsAI ToolsOrganizational Structure NavigationAttention to DetailCommunication Skills

Soft Skills

CollaborationRelationship BuildingAdaptabilityInfluencing SkillsDetail Orientation

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree

Industry Keywords

Federal GovernmentState & Local GovernmentGovernment RelationsTalent PlatformsWorkforce Trends

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Build and influence relationships with key decision-makers across federal and state & local departments and agencies
Develop strong internal relationships with cross-functional partners
Engage prospects across complex organizational structures, targeting leadership and operational roles
Navigate government budgets and funding cycles
Tailor messaging to each organization’s mission and structure
Communicate in government language and build rapport with stakeholders
Promote Handshake’s platform for early-career talent recruitment
Advocate solutions aligned with federal and state & local hiring needs, priorities, and regulations
Identify opportunities, communicate Handshake’s value, and drive engagement with influencers and decision-makers
Help inform go-to-market strategy and refine tactical plans
Work with account executive partners to develop early-stage pipeline
Learn and navigate government contracting processes

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in business, government relations, or a related field
1+ years of experience in business development or account management
Preferably experience within the federal or state & local government sector
Experience navigating large, complex organizational structures
Proficiency managing long sales cycles and influencing multiple stakeholders over extended periods
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to adjust messaging for audiences across federal and state & local government
Strong attention to detail
Ability to work collaboratively across internal teams
Familiarity with government terminology and recruitment processes
Experience with recruitment technologies, talent platforms, or related services
Demonstrated proficiency with AI tools
Familiarity with federal or state & local government workforce trends
Knowledge of government budgets and contracting processes

Benefits

Comp & perks

Equity in a fast-growing company
401(k) match
Competitive compensation
Financial coaching
Paid parental leave
Fertility benefits
Parental coaching
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Mental health support
$500 wellness stipend
$2,000 learning stipend
Ongoing development
Internet allowance
Commuting benefits
Free lunch and gym in the San Francisco office
Flexible PTO
15 holidays + 2 flex days
Team outings
Referral bonuses
Commission