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Federal Proposal Writer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Potomac Haven is a purpose-driven professional services firm that supports federal agencies across ... We are currently seeking an experienced Proposal Writer (Information Technology and Healthcare) ...

Potomac Haven is a purpose-driven professional services firm that supports federal agencies across ... We are currently seeking an experienced Proposal Writer (Information Technology and Healthcare) ...

Bachelors and 5+ years of experience supporting federal proposals, including technical and ... Exceptional writing, editing, and critical-thinking skills. * Ability to handle multiple sections ...

Government, Department of Defense, or federal contracting pursuits * Familiarity with proposal ... Experience writing for defense, autonomy, robotics, software, mobility, or other advanced ...

Bachelors and 5+ years of experience supporting federal proposals, including technical and ... Exceptional writing, editing, and critical-thinking skills. * Ability to handle multiple sections ...

... other federal agencies. KBR's areas of expertise include engineering, logistics, operations ... As a Proposal Writer at KBR, you will play a pivotal role in crafting compelling narratives that ...

... Federal proposals Strong writing and organizational skills Team player with ability to lead and motivate teams in a high pressure environment Advanced level of Microsoft Office suite, (Word and ...

... other federal agencies. KBR's areas of expertise include engineering, logistics, operations ... As a Proposal Writer at KBR, you will play a pivotal role in crafting compelling narratives that ...

Technical Proposal Writer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Technical Proposal Writer Astor & Sanders Corporation (Astor) is an award-winning IT solutions ... Federal Government audience requiring in-depth knowledge and understanding of information ...

Showing results 21-40

Federal Proposal Writer information

See Virginia salary details

$35.7K

$80.6K

$132.9K

How much do federal proposal writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal proposal writer in Virginia is $80,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $89,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal proposal writer?

Federal proposal writers are professionals responsible for creating, organizing, and submitting proposals in response to government solicitations, such as Requests for Proposals (RFPs). They work with subject matter experts, project managers, and compliance teams to ensure that all requirements are met and the proposal stands out among competitors. Their tasks often include researching federal regulations, developing compliant content, and managing tight deadlines. The goal of a federal proposal writer is to secure contracts for their organization by presenting compelling and compliant responses to government opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal proposal writer?

To thrive as a Federal Proposal Writer, you need strong writing, research, and project management abilities, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with federal acquisition regulations (FAR), proposal management tools like Shipley or APMP methodologies, and document management systems is highly beneficial. Outstanding attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are critical soft skills. These skills are essential for producing compliant, persuasive proposals that increase the chances of securing government contracts.

What are some common challenges federal proposal writers face during the proposal development process?

Federal Proposal Writers often encounter tight deadlines, complex compliance requirements, and the need to coordinate input from multiple subject matter experts. Managing updates to evolving solicitation documents and ensuring every section aligns with both client needs and federal regulations can be demanding. Strong organizational and communication skills are critical, as is adaptability to shifting priorities and last-minute changes. Collaboration with business development, technical teams, and leadership is essential to produce a compliant, compelling proposal.

What is the difference between Federal Proposal Writer vs Contract Specialist?

AspectFederal Proposal WriterContract Specialist
Primary RolePrepares and writes proposals to secure federal contractsManages and negotiates federal contracts post-award
Required SkillsProposal writing, compliance, researchContract management, negotiation, legal understanding
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firms, contractorsGovernment agencies, contracting offices
CertificationsNone mandatory, often familiarity with FARFPPC, FAR certifications often preferred

While both roles work within the federal contracting space, a Federal Proposal Writer focuses on creating compelling proposals to win contracts, whereas a Contract Specialist manages existing contracts and ensures compliance. Both roles require knowledge of federal regulations, but their responsibilities differ significantly in the contract lifecycle.

Are federal proposal writers in demand?

Federal proposal writers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for government contracts and funding opportunities. They often require strong writing skills, knowledge of federal procurement processes, and familiarity with proposal management tools. Job opportunities can vary based on government spending and contracting cycles.

How much do federal proposal writers make?

Federal proposal writers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of proposals. Senior writers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially when working for government contractors or in high-demand sectors.

How to become a federal proposal writer?

To become a federal proposal writer, individuals typically need strong writing, research, and project management skills, along with knowledge of government procurement processes. Gaining experience through related roles, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), and understanding federal regulations can improve job prospects. Familiarity with proposal management tools like SharePoint or Deltek is also beneficial.
Infographic showing various Federal Proposal Writer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,551 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Proposal Writer

Potomac Haven Inc.

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

Join a Mission-Driven Team Making a National and Global Impact.

Potomac Haven is a purpose-driven professional services firm that supports federal agencies across healthcare, financial services, and national security and defense missions. Our work advances government-wide priorities to modernize legacy systems, improve efficiency, and deliver simple, seamless, and secure services that strengthen public trust and outcomes.

We are currently seeking an experienced Proposal Writer (Information Technology and Healthcare) with a strong federal-sector background. The ideal candidate will bring a proven record of developing winning proposals and the ability to translate complex technical solutions into clear, compelling, and strategically aligned narratives that reflect agency mission goals and cross-cutting priorities such as software development, cybersecurity and zero trust, IT modernization, healthIT and responsible use of emerging technologies.

This role requires deep expertise applying Shipley-based methodologies to produce fully compliant, evaluation-ready proposals—including strong story flow, persuasive win themes, and consistent messaging that differentiates our approach while demonstrating measurable value to the Government.


In this role, you will:

  • Collaborate closely with the business development, capture teams, and subject matter experts to review and respond to RFI's, RFPs and RFQs.
  • Contribute to the creation of winning themes, executive summaries, and other business development materials.
  • Translate complex business and technical requirements into clear, persuasive narratives that resonate with evaluators.

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in the growth of a respected and rapidly expanding federal contractor. If you are passionate about crafting proposals that win and want to be part of a team that values excellence, innovation, and impact—we want to hear from you.

  • Analyze Solicitation Requirements: Thoroughly review and interpret customer requirements, ensuring 100% compliance with all solicitation instructions, including FAR/DFAR regulations.
  • Lead Proposal Development Lifecycle: Manage the end-to-end proposal process using tailored Shipley methodology - including proposal schedule development, team coordination, kickoff meetings, content development, compliance matrix preparation, data call management, and color team reviews.
  • Collaborate with SMEs: Work closely with subject matter experts to distill complex business and technical information into accessible, solution-oriented content that resonates with evaluators.
  • Develop Compelling Proposal Content: Participate in solution design sessions and translate business, operations and technical concepts into clear and concise, customer focused and persuasive storytelling content and utilize the structured writing process (POWeR).
  • Craft Persuasive and Differentiated Content: Write, edit, and tailor proposal content to reflect win themes, competitive differentiators, and unique value propositions.
  • Visual Communication: Design or refine graphics, illustrations, and visual elements that effectively convey technical approaches, key differentiators, and strategic messaging, in collaboration with solution architects and design teams.
  • Enhance Readability and Impact: Apply best practices in proposal writing, including the use of action captions, win theme statements, and customer-centric language to improve clarity, engagement, and evaluator impact.
  • Maintain a Strong Customer Focus: Ensure that every aspect of the proposal reflects a deep understanding of the customer’s needs, challenges, and goals, reinforcing Potomac Haven’s commitment to delivering tailored, mission-driven solutions.
  • Ensure Quality and Compliance: Drive the development of high-quality, compliant, and customer-focused proposals by applying industry best practices and standardized processes. Maintain consistency in tone, structure, and messaging across all proposal sections.
  • Facilitate Continuous Improvement: Provide regular progress updates, lead after-action reviews, and document lessons learned to enhance future proposal efforts.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, English, Marketing, Journalism or Information Systems preferred.
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in federal government proposal writing and management, and deep knowledge and use of Shipley proposal management methodology and principles.
  • High level of expertise and proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, CoPilot and Adobe products.
  • Ability to maintain a flexible schedules.
  • Understanding of FAR/DFAR is necessary.
  • Experience with a wide range of technical subjects including information technology management, software development and support, digital transformation, strategic communication, program and operations management, grants administration and human capital management.
  • Track record of successful proposal planning, organization, and development of compliant and winning proposal responses.
  • Excellent communications (both written and spoken) including ability to motivate others and collaborate effectively.
  • Ability to design, develop, and modify complex illustrations, visuals, and graphics. Knowledge and use of Microsoft CoPilot is a plus.
  • Excellent writing/editing capability; ability to synthesize/analyze material effectively; experience writing/editing technical and non-technical documents.
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently and in a team environment, including ability to organize, prioritize and work under pressure.

Work Schedule:

  • Onsite at McLean (Tysons Corner) at least 2-3 days per week.
  • 8-hour shift during normal business hours of 8 am – 5 pm EST; Monday to Friday

More about Potomac Haven: We are an award-winning information technology and professional services firm recognized for delivering transformative solutions that drive mission success. Our strength lies in our diverse, multi-disciplinary teams—passionate professionals who bring deep expertise, agility, and dedication to every engagement.

We proudly serve a distinguished portfolio of federal clients, including the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), Washington Headquarters Services (WHS), U.S. Air Force, U.S. Coast Guard, USAID, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), General Services Administration (GSA), Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Administration for Children and Families (ACF)—among many others. Our mission is simple: to empower our customers to achieve their mission outcomes.