Proposal Manager

Craftwater Engineering, Inc.; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Unlimited PTO

Concierge health benefits

401(k) contributions

Profit-sharing eligibility

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Craftwater Engineering, Inc. in San Diego is hiring a Proposal Manager to lead proposal execution, turning complex inputs into clear narratives and driving accountability across teams. The role requires 3–8+ years of experience in proposal or bid management, with strong writing skills.

Offering a hybrid work schedule and a range of benefits including unlimited PTO and health insurance, the successful candidate will thrive in a collaborative, motivated environment focused on excellence and growth.

Qualifications

• 3–8+ years in proposals, bid management, or similar deadline-driven work.
• Experience with RFP/RFQ/SOQ processes.
• Strong writing and editing skills required.

Responsibilities

• Lead proposal execution from kickoff to submission across multiple pursuits.
• Turn complex inputs into clear, compelling narratives.
• Drive accountability across teams to hit deadlines.

Skills

Proposal execution

Writing and editing

Organizational skills

Deadline management

Team coordination

AEC / Civil Engineering experience

Tools

InDesign

Microsoft Office

Proposal platforms

Job description

Own The Process That Drives Our Growth

At Craftwater, the innovative work starts with winning proposals. We’re hiring a Proposal Manager to run point on RFPs, RFQs, and SOQs. Owning execution, driving accountability, and shaping the narrative are key to success. This is a high-impact role with direct influence on our growth.

What You'll Do

• Lead proposal execution from kickoff to submission across multiple pursuits
• Turn complex inputs into clear, compelling narratives
• Drive accountability across teams to hit deadlines without chaos
• Build and improve proposal systems, templates, and workflows
• Stay ahead of upcoming pursuits so we’re prepared and organized

What We’re Looking For

• 3–8+ years in proposals, bid management, or similar deadline-driven work
• Experience with RFP/RFQ/SOQ processes
• Strong writing and editing skills
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive
• Ability to coordinate across teams and hold people accountable
• Nice to have: AEC / Civil Engineering industry experience, InDesign/Microsoft Office, proposal platforms (PlanetBids, BidNet, etc.)

How We Work

At Craftwater, how we work matters just as much as what we deliver:

• We think in about the entire system by understanding the bigger picture behind every pursuit
• We build real connections with teammates and clients through direct, honest collaboration
• We innovate with purpose, pushing beyond standard approaches to improve outcomes
• We bring tenacity and don’t settle for “good enough,” especially under pressure
• We hold a high bar for excellence by creating clear, accurate, and compelling deliverables every time

If that resonates, you’ll fit right in.

Why Craftwater

We’re a team that takes our work seriously, but not ourselves.

• Flexible hybrid work schedule
• A collaborative, low-ego environment
• Real ownership and visibility into growth
• Strong culture of smart, dedicated people working toward excellence

We’re doing big things and having fun doing it!

$65,000 - $120,000 a year

Benefits & Perks

• Hybrid work schedule
• Unlimited PTO
• Concierge health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
• Employer 401(k) contributions + profit-sharing eligibility
• Personal development & mentorship
• Professional and academic conference opportunities
• Employee-focused reward programs
• Local sports team season tickets

We expect a high level of ownership and quality and in return, your compensation and benefits will grow alongside your performance and impact.