Proposal Manager I

Sierra Nevada Corporation; Englewood (CO); On-site; USD 108,000 - 149,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision plan

401(k) match

Life insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Sierra Nevada Corporation is seeking a detail-oriented Proposal Manager I to oversee the bid process for ISR, aviation, and security products. You will manage a Proposal Development Center, coordinate multi‑proposal workflows, and mentor analysts and writers to ensure high‑quality submissions. Requirements include a Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience, strong leadership, and expertise with proposal management software and AI tools.

A Secret U.S. security clearance is required.

Qualifications

• Leadership experience of proposal teams.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to motivate and work with others.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Proposal Development Center and staff.
• Plan and execute IDIQ proposals from planning to delivery.
• Direct preparation of proposals: writing, editing, pricing, and graphics.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Proposal management

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related field

Tools

Proposal management software

AI tools

APMP Certification

Job description

Proposal Manager I

We are seeking a detail‑oriented and communicative professional with experience in the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Military, or Aerospace & Defense industry to serve as our Proposal Manager I. You will oversee the bid submission process from initial contact through contract signing for a range of ISR, aviation, and security products.

Responsibilities

• Manage the Proposal Development Center and its staff in creating and submitting task order and project proposals for government and commercial customers.
• Plan, organize, facilitate, and execute IDIQ proposals, ensuring the proposal development process is clearly disseminated and efficiently implemented.
• Direct the preparation of proposals, including writing, editing, graphics, formatting, pricing, data call coordination, and production of technical and cost volumes.
• Coordinate proposal workflows, develop required documents (templates, compliance matrix, schedules, color review sheets), lead internal status meetings, and serve as the main point of contact for subcontractor input.
• Take ownership of proposal processes, ensuring quality and compliance of all proposals submitted.
• Supervise and coordinate Proposal Center staff—Proposal Analysts and Proposal Writers—providing mentorship, training, and performance evaluation.
• Participate in capture discussions and develop bid strategy to align proposals with company goals.
• Ensure timely submission of proposals by overseeing the entire lifecycle from planning to delivery.

Qualifications

Must Have

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (or 7+ years of experience in a related field; the required educational qualifications may be substituted by 11+ years of experience).
• Demonstrated experience leading proposal teams.
• Expertise with proposal management software and AI tools.
• Experience managing multiple proposals of all sizes from planning to delivery.
• Progressive technical, proposal writing, and proposal‑management experience with emphasis on technical products and logistics services.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to motivate and work with others.
• Proficiency in preparing pricing volumes, including WBS and BOE, and familiarity with government contracting processes.
• Prior lead role experience, with the ability to mentor, train, and guide staff.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

Prefer

• Knowledge of industry‑specific proposal tools and software.
• Self‑starter and problem solver with the ability to see the big picture and implement changes.
• APMP Certification.
• Understanding of Adobe Creative Suite applications (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat) and proficiency in MS Word for proposal formatting.
• Background in the aerospace and defense industry, U.S. Department of Defense, or U.S. Military.

Benefits and Compensation

Estimated Starting Salary Range: $108,496.89 - $149,183.22. Compensation varies based on skills, experience, education, and certifications. The disclosed range may be adjusted for geographic differential.

SNC offers an annual incentive pay based on performance. Benefit package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%; life insurance; 3 weeks paid time off; tuition reimbursement; and more.

Security Clearance & Citizenship

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required for eligibility; non‑U.S. citizens are ineligible for clearance.

Equal Opportunity Employer

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other characteristics protected by law.