Business Development Manager - Metal Fabrication at AP Precision Metals Inc – San Diego, California

Location: San Diego, CA (Otay Mesa)Job Type: Full-Time, In-OfficeDepartment: Sales / Engineering Reports To: Management Team

If you are an industry veteran living in Chula Vista, Bonita, Eastlake, or Otay Ranch, you know the toll the I-805 and I-5 commute takes on your quality of life. AP Precision Metals offers a high-level, strategic Sales career right in your backyard. We believe the best "Hunters" in the San Diego manufacturing corridor shouldn't have to drive 90 minutes a day to find a world-class facility to represent. Join a stable, growing leader in South San Diego and take back your time.

AP Precision Metals, Inc. is San Diego’s leading commercial metal fabricator, focusing on simple to complex assemblies. We are a long-term supplier to many of Southern California’s largest OEMs. Founded in 1999, AP Precision has grown consistently for over 25 years through reliable leadership, continuous investment in advanced manufacturing equipment, and a strong focus on employee development. Our 40,000 sq. ft. South San Diego facility houses state-of-the-art laser cutting, forming, welding, powder coating, and assembly operations. We operate with a wide range of certifications including ISO9001:2015, ITAR, HUBZone, and soon CMMC Level 2. Our organization prioritizes employee development, stability, and sustainable career growth.

We are seeking a Technical Business Development Manager with deep roots in the Southern California manufacturing industry. This role is designed for a "Hunter" who possesses an established network of relationships and the technical expertise to identify, target, and secure high-value partnerships with major OEMs.This is an in-office position at our factory in South San Diego (Otay Mesa). While you will be based at our headquarters to collaborate with our engineering and production teams, you will frequently be in the field visiting customer facilities throughout San Diego County.
Key Responsibilities Business Development & Revenue Growth

• Target & Secure: Proactively identify and "open doors" with new high-potential OEM customers in the Commercial, Defense, Medical, and Technology sectors.
• Relationship Management: Serve as the primary commercial point of contact for a portfolio of key accounts, ensuring long-term retention and growth.
• Strategic Networking: Leverage existing industry relationships to position AP Precision as a preferred supplier for new programs and contract renewals.
• Market Intelligence: Stay current on local industry trends and competitor activity to maintain AP Precision’s market-leading position.

Estimating & Technical Sales Support

• Technical Consultation: Review customer drawings and specifications for manufacturability (DFM) to provide value-added feedback during the sales process.
• Quoting: Prepare and present comprehensive quotes for laser cutting, forming, welding, machining, and assembly (1 pc to 100,000 pc runs).
• Project Kickoff: Collaborate with internal engineering and manufacturing leads to ensure a seamless transition from "Closed-Won" to production.
• ERP Utilization: Manage customer data and basic estimating inputs within ECI / JobBOSS / Shoptech ERP.

Internal Collaboration

• Work directly with Company Ownership and Management on pricing strategy for large-scale contracts.
• Provide the "Voice of the Customer" to the production floor to support continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

• Industry Experience: 5+ years of experience in Sales or Business Development specifically within Metal Fabrication, CNC Machining, or Contract Manufacturing.
• Proven Track Record: Demonstrated ability to secure and grow accounts with large-scale OEMs.
• Technical Literacy: Ability to read/interpret complex technical drawings; familiarity with ITAR and CMMC requirements is highly preferred.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to navigate both the executive boardroom and the shop floor.
• Local Residency: Ideally based in South San Diego County with a desire to work closer to home.

Compensation & Growth

• Base Compensation: $85,000 – $105,000 per year (Exempt Salary), depending on experience and industry network.
• Incentive Compensation: Quarterly bonus structure based on 0.25% of Gross Company Sales + New Account Acquisition Bounties.
• Career Path: This role is a senior-level position with the potential to lead the Sales & Marketing department as the company continues its 25-year growth trajectory.

Work Environment

• In-office role at our South San Diego (Otay Mesa) facility.
• Regular travel to customer sites within San Diego County (Company mileage reimbursement provided).

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• IRA retirement plan
• Paid time off and company holidays