Proposal Manager

QinetiQ; Lorton (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

QinetiQ US seeks an experienced Proposal Manager to lead federal proposals and international efforts, from pre-RFP to post-RFP stages. You will mentor teams, align with capture and solution architecture, and ensure compliant, compelling proposals.

The role emphasizes strong writing, editing, and advanced MS Word/desktop publishing skills, plus the ability to manage large, complex bids in fast-paced environments. Located in the U.S. Virginia area; remote work not indicated.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in federal proposals including orals.
• Active Secret clearance.
• Experience writing proposals for professional services and technology-centric solutions.
• Experience managing GWAC and IDIQ proposals.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. Federal procurement processes.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Expert-level MS Word proficiency; desktop publishing skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop 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 messaging.
• Drive the proposal process to meet milestones per corporate processes and support writing and editing.
• Set schedules, create outlines, build compliance matrices, lead proposal kickoffs, guide content creators.
• Interpret technical and management requirements of U.S. Federal Government and international solicitations, recommend response strategies, ensure compliance.
• Manage multiple large and complex proposals for U.S. government agencies and international partners.
• Update, refine, and enhance the Proposal SOPs to reflect best practices and global compliance.
• Manage a SharePoint-based proposal management system and maintain a repository of templates and examples.

Skills

Proposal management

Federal proposals

Orals handling

Copywriting/editing

MS Word proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

MS SharePoint

Job description

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

Position Overview

QinetiQ seeks an experienced Proposal Manager to join a growing proposal operations and growth organization.

The Proposal Manager will bring a proven track record of successfully leading federal proposals—from call/task order responses to large, complex, strategic bids—while also demonstrating experience managing international proposal efforts in support of allied defense, security, or intelligence initiatives. This individual will play a key role in solving challenging missions across both domestic and international government markets.

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).

Required 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Experience managing proposals as part of a large systems integrator or international defense contractor.
• Proficiency with MS SharePoint.
• Experience with international business development or proposals supporting NATO, FMS, or allied government customers strongly preferred.

Pay Transparency

The salary range for this role is $100,000 - $120,000 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

Company EEO Statement

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [e-mail] or call [phone] Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.