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Federal Proposal Writer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Proposal Writer Principal

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

You will provide full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes ...

SAIC

Proposal Writer Principal

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$120K - $160K/yr

You will provide full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes ...

Saic

Proposal Writer Principal

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

You will provide full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes ...

SAIC

Proposal Writer Principal

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$120K - $160K/yr

You will provide full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes ...

Saic

Proposal Writer Principal

Reston, VA · On-site

$120 - $160/hr

You will provide full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes ...

Integral

Proposal Writer

Tysons, VA · On-site +1

$80K - $120K/yr

Integral Federal is seeking a Proposal Writer on the Business Development Team in Tysons, VA. This is an exciting role for those that want to make an immediate impact and be recognized for their ...

New

Integral

Proposal Writer

Tysons Corner, VA

$80K - $120K/yr

Integral Federal is seeking a Proposal Writer on the Business Development Team in Tysons, VA. This is an exciting role for those that want to make an immediate impact and be recognized for their ...

New

NetVision Resources, Inc.

Proposal Writer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary We are looking for a detail-oriented and experienced Proposal Writer to manage and ... Experience with US Federal proposals (RFPs, RFIs, RFQs, compliance matrices) * Exposure to proposal ...

Brillient

Senior Proposal Writer

Reston, VA · On-site

... federal procurements. This is a hands-on, high-impact role for a practitioner who thrives in ... Job Duties: Proposal Leadership & Writing * Lead end-to-end development of proposal volumes ...

ASRC Federal Holding

Senior Proposal Writer

Reston, VA · On-site

$94K - $118K/yr

ASRC Federal is a leading government contractor furthering missions in space, public health and ... The Senior Proposal Writer provides strategic writing expertise to competitive Federal proposals ...

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Federal Proposal Writer information

See Washington salary details

$40.8K

$92K

$151.8K

How much do federal proposal writer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal proposal writer in Washington is $92,022.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,900.00 and $102,500.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Proposal Writer jobs in Washington?

For Federal Proposal Writer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Proposal Writer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Proposal Writer jobs in Washington are:

Federal Proposal Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Proposal Writer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,022 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Proposal Writer Principal

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services

Job description

Job Description
Description
SAIC is looking for a seasoned, cleared senior level Proposal Writer who is accomplished with writing original content for all sections of Federal RFx, with minimal oversight. This position offers hybrid work opportunities, with primary work to be completed in the Reston or Chantilly, Virginia offices. The candidate should be local to the Northern, Virginia area.
Candidates must have an active TS/SCI Clearance.
What You'll Do
The Proposal Writer we seek is a principal-level proposal professional and is a key member of the Proposal Development Center (PDC). You will provide full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes), through submission. You'll also coach and mentor junior writers and participate in process improvement initiatives. You'll share your wisdom in peer and color reviews and apply analytical skills to process efficiencies and proposal quality through the use of proprietary AI tool.
What You'll Bring to the Table
In this role you will join the PDC family that enjoys a team culture, and collaborative engagement with all levels of proposal contributors and stakeholders.
You have a hunger for knowledge, a thirst for quality, and an eye for accuracy. You have strong critical thinking skills and easily digest technically complex information. You have experience with writing proposals or technical documents for the Federal Government. Each proposal offers you an opportunity to learn about exciting innovations that sustain and support our government, including our military.
Your strengths with the written word, communications, and the English language (grammar nerds welcomed and embraced), will be appreciated throughout the proposal development process. Your expertise weaving in win strategies, themes, and discriminators into proposal artifacts means you are making an impact to important solutions supporting our customers.
What SAIC Offers
We empower you to paint our proposals with your creative and analytical skills. SAIC is dedicated to your professional development and career growth with our mature mentor-protégé program and robust training opportunities (e.g., emerging technologies, including AI, leadership development, and industry best practices).
In this deadline-driven industry, we offer you competitive compensation, a flexible work schedule, and work-life balance.
Don't take our word for it... some of SAIC's recognition includes:
  • Glassdoor's Best Places to Work 2026, Glassdoor, 2026
  • America's Best Midsize Employers, TIME, 2024
  • Forbes best Large Employers, Forbes, 2023
  • Ranked #1 of Top Companies for Veterans - DiversityInc - 2022
  • Ranked #7 of Top 25 Veteran Employers - Military.com - 2022

Day in the Life of a Proposal Writer
  • You'll interview candidates and SMEs, and engage with fellow contributors to develop proposal artifacts that are clear, concise, persuasive, compliant, and compelling
  • You'll ensure accurate content that is error free and aligned to RFx requirements, company process, capture strategies, and industry best practices
  • You'll peer review your teammates work, and ask them to review your work
  • You may be a reviewer in our formal color reviews- sharing your crucial insight, knowledge, and expertise
  • You'll coach and mentor less experience writers
  • You may be engaged in the earliest stages of capture strategy development

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • BA or BS degree or higher (or equivalent) in Journalism, English, Business, Information Technology, Communication Arts, or other relevant fields and 10+ years of solid Federal proposal writing experience. 8+ years of experience with a Masters Degree. An additional 4+ years of experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience providing full lifecycle, Federal proposal support, from content planning, template development, and writing and editing key sections (resumes, past performance, and narrative volumes), through submission.
  • Candidates must be a US Citizen
  • TS/SCI Clearance required

Desired:
  • Experience with FEDSIM/AAS, OTA, and Self-Scoring bids a plus
  • Be a champion of AI tools for quality improvements and efficiency
  • Knowledge of infrastructure modernization, applications/software development and sustainment, cloud solutions, warfighter solutions, and agile methodologies for defense, civilian, space, and National security sectors of the federal government

Target salary range: $120,001 - $160,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
Overview
SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline.
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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