Founding Deployment Strategist, Defense

About Schemata

At Schemata, we are transforming the $400 B virtual-training and simulation market by fusing 3D computer vision, neural rendering and large multimodal models inside highly regulated industries. Our platform delivers photorealistic, intelligent 3D experiences, demanding robust spatial reasoning, high-performance data pipelines and seamless integration between traditional graphics and AI-driven perception.

Role Overview

We're seeking a Deployment Strategist to diagnose real problems for target DoW units, design deployment plans pairing Schemata's 3D reconstruction and AI capabilities to those problems, and own the account from first contact through adoption and expansion. You'll work closely with our forward deployed engineering (FDE) team - together, you scope and shape the solution, they build it, and you manage the relationship. A signed contract is a milestone, not the finish line: your job continues through deployment, adoption, and growing the account into new units and programs.

What you do

• Diagnose real workflow and mission problems by embedding with warfighters, program managers, and contracting officers - not just gathering requirements, but understanding the job to be done

• Design a deployment plan that pairs Schemata's spatial AI capabilities to the problem, and scope the technical solution with our FDE/engineering team so delivery starts from an accurate handoff

• Own pursuits and accounts end-to-end: first conversation, contract, deployment, adoption, and expansion into additional units or programs

• Navigate DoW acquisition cycles: RFPs, OTAs, SBIR/STTR, and everything in between

• Measure usage and adoption after deployment, and use that signal to identify expansion opportunities within the account

• Build durable relationships with warfighters, program stakeholders, and champions on-site

• Maintain pipeline discipline: keep the CRM current and report deal and deployment status honestly

Who you are

• DoW/government contracting experience or fluency: FAR, SBIR/STTR, OTAs, and contract vehicles

• Consultative, solution-oriented approach to selling in a technical domain - you can translate a capability into a mission use-case

• Ability to scope a technical solution and coordinate delivery with an engineering/FDE team. You don't need to write the code, but you need to hand off an accurate, well-scoped problem and stay involved through delivery

• Self-starter who doesn't need a playbook to get started - you help write it

• US citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance (or an active clearance)

Who thrives here

• You think in outcomes, not just outputs. A demo isn't a win. A signed contract isn't the finish line either - real usage is

• You want to be the connective tissue between the field and the technical team, not purely a closer who hands off and moves on

• You're comfortable being embedded - on-site, in the weeds of a customer's actual workflow, not just running a sales process from a desk

• You can defend your read of a problem under pushback without getting defensive, and you adjust when the evidence says you're wrong

What success looks like

(Directional, not exhaustive - specific targets are set with your manager)

• Rapidly identify and validate real DoW use-cases for our platform, faster than the current baseline ramp

• Build a qualified pipeline of DoW opportunities and close new contracts

• Stand up early pilots that see real, ongoing usage - not just signed paper

• Grow initial beachhead accounts into relationships spanning additional DoW components or programs over time

Nice to haves

• Existing DoW network or relationships

• Technical background: geospatial, 3D reconstruction, computer vision, or similar

• Startup or scale-up business development experience

• Active security clearance

• Veteran or DoW experience

• Advanced degree (MBA, MS, or similar)

Why Join Us?

• Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth, venture-backed defense tech startup, so you share in the upside you help create

• Comprehensive health coverage: medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Competitive salary that reflects your experience and track record

• 401(k) plan

• Paid parental leave

• High visibility and real impact: Collaborate with world-class engineers and researchers in a high-ownership environment.