Global Defense Proposals Lead

QinetiQ US; Lorton (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Proposal Manager to lead federal and international proposal efforts, guiding teams from pre-RFP to final submission. The role focuses on building compliant, compelling proposals with clear win strategies and integrated messaging.

You will mentor staff, coordinate with Capture Managers and Solution Architects, and manage timelines, templates, and compliance across complex bids in the U.S. and allied international markets.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience managing all phases and components of federal government proposals, including orals.
• Active Secret clearance
• Experience writing proposals for professional services and technology-centric solutions.
• Experience managing GWAC and IDIQ proposals.
• Familiarity with proposal responses for international defense/security customers or multinational government partnerships preferred.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving environment, with flexibility to work extended hours as needed.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Federal procurement processes and standard proposal development methodologies.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Expert-level Microsoft Word proficiency (templates, styles, macros); strong desktop publishing skills.

Responsibilities

• Continue to develop and refine proposal processes, templates, and procedures from pre-RFP through post-RFP phases.
• Mentor proposal team members, train staff on best practices, and provide leadership as the company expands its domestic and international footprint.
• Engage with Capture Managers, Delivery SMEs, and Solution Architects to craft proposal strategy and develop compelling messaging, ensuring the win strategy, technical solution, win themes, discriminators, compliance, and a clear understanding of requirements are well-articulated and consistent throughout the final proposal documents.
• Drive the proposal process to meet milestones per corporate processes (e.g., color reviews) and support writing and editing (technical and format).
• Set schedules, create outlines, build compliance matrices, lead proposal kickoffs, guide content creators, and manage graphics coordination.
• Interpret technical and management requirements of U.S. Federal Government and international government solicitations (e.g., RFPs, RFIs, RTEPs), recommend response strategies, and ensure proposals are compliant with applicable instructions and regulations.
• Manage multiple large and complex proposals simultaneously, including those supporting U.S. government agencies and international partners.
• Update, refine, and enhance the Proposal Standard Operating Procedures to reflect industry best practices and global compliance requirements.
• Manage a SharePoint-based proposal management system and maintain a repository of high-quality response templates and gold plate examples (e.g., management plans, transition plans, past performance).

Skills

Proposal management

Federal procurement knowledge

Writing and editing

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

MS Word

SharePoint

Job description

QinetiQ US is seeking an experienced Proposal Manager to lead federal and international proposal efforts, guiding teams from pre-RFP to final submission. The role focuses on building compliant, compelling proposals with clear win strategies and integrated messaging.

You will mentor staff, coordinate with Capture Managers and Solution Architects, and manage timelines, templates, and compliance across complex bids in the U.S. and allied international markets.