Own and manage the full proposal lifecycle for DOW opportunities, including RFPs, RFIs, white papers, BOAs, OTAs, SBIR/STTR, and unsolicited proposals.
Serve as the single-threaded owner for proposal execution, including schedules, outlines, compliance matrices, reviews, and final submissions.
Lead proposal kickoffs, color reviews, and final production reviews to ensure high-quality, on-time deliverables.
Collaborate closely with capture, business development, engineering, product, finance, legal, and executive leadership to develop winning storylines and technical narratives.
Translate complex technical solutions into clear, persuasive proposal content that highlights Shift5’s value and differentiators.
Partner with capture and BD to shape win themes, discriminators, and messaging strategies aligned with evaluator priorities.
Ensure strict compliance with solicitation requirements, evaluation criteria, and formatting instructions.
Coordinate inputs from subject matter experts, executives, and external partners throughout the proposal process.
Develop, curate, and maintain reusable proposal content, templates, and best practices to support scalability and consistency.
Support post-submission activities, including Q&A responses, clarifications, and proposal debriefs.

Bachelor’s degree in business, communications, engineering, or related discipline.
5+ years of experience managing DOW or federal government proposals and RFP responses.
Deep understanding of DOW acquisition processes and compliance requirements (FAR/DFARS).
Proven success crafting technically accurate and persuasive proposal narratives.
Exceptional project management skills and ability to lead cross-functional contributors under tight timelines.
Experience with OTAs, CSOs, or other non-traditional DOW vehicles.
Familiarity with cybersecurity, software/SaaS, or defense-tech offerings.
APMP certification or similar professional proposal credentials.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex technical content for non-technical audiences.
Experience with proposal management tools and collaborative review workflows.
U.S. citizenship required and ability to obtain a security clearance.

Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup
Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families
Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions
Employer-paid Life and Disability Insurance
Uncapped paid time off policy
Flexible work & remote work policy
Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA)

Proposal Manager

Key skills