Business Development Associate

About Us:

At Bernhard, we blend a rich history with a forward-looking vision. With over 100 years of experience, we are a pillar of stability in the energy infrastructure industry and a leader in innovative energy solutions. Our commitment to leveraging emerging technologies ensures that we remain at the forefront of the Energy-as-a-Service sector.

We believe in growth—not just for our business, but for our people. Our team members have the opportunity to advance their careers in a supportive environment that values continuous learning and development. We embrace innovation and encourage creative problem solving to tackle the energy infrastructure and energy challenges of tomorrow.

Inclusion is at the heart of our culture. We strive to create a workplace where every voice is heard and valued, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives drive our success.

Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence and a future of groundbreaking advancements. At Bernhard, stability, innovation, and growth are more than just values—they are the pillars of our continued success.

The Business Development Associate supports the firm’s business development and marketing efforts. The Business Development Associate reports directly to the Vice President of Business Development with oversight from the Vice President of Marketing and Communications  and is a part of a highly collaborative team that works in a fast-paced and deadline-driven environment. 

Specific responsibilities include:

• Develops written and visual materials for use in proposals, interviews, client presentations, conference abstracts, and marketing collateral 
• Works with technical staff to develop proposal sections, interview materials, abstracts, articles, award submissions, and other marketing materials
• Executes or assists with all aspects of fee proposals, qualification packages, and RFP/RFQ responses. Participate in interviews and related sales activities
• Gathers needed information from Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to support writing activities. Translates technical subject matter into easily understandable content.
• Reads and dissects RFPs, RFQs, amendments/modifications, and other solicitation documents to develop response outlines according to requirements to ensure proposal is compliant.
• Ensures optimal organization, presentation, and articulation of solution or qualifications in the proposal or qual pack and oversees incorporation of key messaging that clarifies the strengths of Bernhard’s offer, including any differentiators.
• Reviews proposal content for clarity, consistency, and responsiveness to RFP/RFQ requirements. Performs proofreading and editing to ensure clarity, punctuation, grammar, and spelling.
• Develops and executes strategy for company participation at industry conferences and events, including securing speaking opportunities and sponsorships
• Ensures consistency of branding and content across marketing materials by creatively applying brand guidelines.
• Research and gather information on clients, potential clients, project opportunities, utility programs, and targeted markets to obtain leads. Identify key potential client decision makers
• Research financial, industry, and competitor trends
• Utilize and maintain all aspects of Cosential/Unanet CRM. This includes internal records, resumes, client information, sales activities (calls/emails/meetings/other), lead tracking, opportunity tracking, sales forecasts, and proposal status tracking.
• Attends regular meetings to discuss marketing and business development strategies
• Manages office inventory of marketing collateral and supplies
• Participate in lunch or after-hours networking opportunities at local/regional/national industry organization events such as ASHE, ASHRAE, AEE, IFMA, BOMA.
• Work closely with Marketing team, Sales team, Account Managers, and VP of Business Development
• Develops PowerPoint presentations, advertisements, client leave-behinds, infographics, and other client-facing marketing materials
• Supports strategy development, research, and coaching for interviews and other formal presentations to clients
• Ensures consistency of branding and content across marketing materials and applies internal brand standards and document design guidelines.
• Coordinates company attendance at external events including conferences, golf tournaments, and special events

Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, or related field. 
• 3+ years’ experience in the architectural, engineering, construction, or real estate industry
• 3+ years’ of demonstrated business development or client relationship experience
• Excellent written/verbal communication skills and attention to detail
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (particularly Acrobat Pro and InDesign)
• Professional interpersonal skills – there is significant interaction with all levels of staff

Preferred Education, Experience, and Qualifications

• A/E/C Industry background. Ability to read/interpret RFPs with respect to alignment with Bernhard’s core skills and service offerings. 

Travel Requirements

• 10% of time will be spent traveling to job site(s)/office location. 

Physical/Work Environment Requirements

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Climbing stairs.
• Remaining in a stationary position, often kneeling, standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers. 
• Quiet environment.
• Light work that includes adjusting and/or moving objects up to 20 pounds. 

Bernhard is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities, and participates in the E-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.