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Federal Proposal Writing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scout AI

Senior Program Manager

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$135K - $136K/yr

Government proposals or defense contracting submissions • Strong understanding of federal ... Strong writing, editing, and communication abilities • Must be a U.S. Person due to required ...

PacRim Engineering Inc

Proposal Coordinator

Orange, CA · On-site

$70K - $72K/yr

Our market segment focus includes DOD and Federal Programs, Regional Transportation, Municipalities ... Writes non-technical text and assists Project Managers in the development of technical text.

Shield AI

Sr Proposal Manager (R5816)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75 - $112/hr

Strong oral and written communication skills. (Technical writing experience preferred.) Strong ... Federal or international government proposal development or BD operations experience. * In lieu of ...

Shield AI

Sr Proposal Manager (R5816)

San Mateo, CA · On-site +1

$86K - $127K/yr

Strong oral and written communication skills. (Technical writing experience preferred.) Strong ... Federal or international government proposal development or BD operations experience. * In lieu of ...

BlackCube Labs

Sr Proposal Manager (R5816)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$75 - $112/hr

Strong oral and written communication skills. (Technical writing experience preferred.) Strong ... Federal or international government proposal development or BD operations experience. * In lieu of ...

Shield AI

Sr Proposal Manager (R5816)

San Diego, CA · On-site

Strong oral and written communication skills. (Technical writing experience preferred.) Strong ... Federal or international government proposal development or BD operations experience. * In lieu of ...

Shield AI

Sr Proposal Manager (R5816)

San Mateo, CA · On-site

Strong oral and written communication skills. (Technical writing experience preferred.) Strong ... Federal or international government proposal development or BD operations experience. * In lieu of ...

Shield AI

Sr Proposal Manager (R5816)

San Diego, CA · On-site

Strong oral and written communication skills. (Technical writing experience preferred.) Strong ... Federal or international government proposal development or BD operations experience. * In lieu of ...

Street Level Strategy

Proposal Specialist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

You'll edit, rewrite, and write technical and nontechnical text as necessary to prepare the most ... Build and develop a pipeline across federal, state, local, and private sources, establishing the ...

Street Level Strategy

Proposal Specialist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

You'll edit, rewrite, and write technical and nontechnical text as necessary to prepare the most ... Build and develop a pipeline across federal, state, local, and private sources, establishing the ...

Street Level Strategy

Proposal Specialist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$80 - $95/hr

You'll edit, rewrite, and write technical and nontechnical text as necessary to prepare the most ... Build and develop a pipeline across federal, state, local, and private sources, establishing the ...

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Federal Proposal Writing information

What is federal proposal writing?

Federal proposal writing is the process of preparing and submitting detailed documents to government agencies in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) or other solicitations. This role involves understanding government requirements, outlining solutions, and demonstrating a company’s qualifications, pricing, and compliance. Effective federal proposal writers ensure that submissions are clear, persuasive, and adhere strictly to the guidelines set by the government. Their work is critical in helping organizations secure government contracts and funding.

What are some common challenges faced by federal proposal writers and how can they be addressed?

Federal proposal writers often encounter tight deadlines, complex compliance requirements, and the need to coordinate input from multiple departments. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication. Utilizing standardized templates, maintaining a compliance checklist, and scheduling regular meetings with subject matter experts can help streamline the process and ensure submissions meet all necessary guidelines.

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

To thrive as a Federal Proposal Writer, you need strong research, writing, and project management skills, often supported by experience with government contracting and a background in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with federal acquisition regulations (FAR), proposal management software like Deltek or Salesforce, and compliance documentation is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, time management, and collaboration skills help candidates stand out in this deadline-driven role. These competencies ensure proposals are compelling, compliant, and submitted on time—crucial for winning government contracts.

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

AspectFederal Proposal WritingContract Specialist
CredentialsProposal development certifications, writing skillsContract management certifications, legal knowledge
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, consulting firmsGovernment agencies, private sector companies
Industry UsageFederal contracting, grant proposalsContract administration, compliance

Federal Proposal Writers focus on creating compelling proposals to secure government contracts, emphasizing writing and strategic communication. Contract Specialists handle the administration, negotiation, and compliance of contracts post-award. While both roles work within government contracting, proposal writers are primarily involved in the bid process, whereas contract specialists manage ongoing contract execution.

Are federal proposal writers in demand?

Federal proposal writers are in demand due to the ongoing need for government agencies to procure services and products through competitive bidding. Strong writing skills, knowledge of government regulations, and experience with proposal management tools increase job prospects in this field.

How to become a federal proposal writer?

To become a federal proposal writer, develop strong writing, research, and project management skills, often through a bachelor's degree in a related field such as business, communications, or government. Gaining experience with government procurement processes, proposal development, and familiarity with tools like Microsoft Office and proposal management software can be beneficial. Certifications like the Certified Federal Proposal Manager (CFPM) can also enhance credibility and job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Federal Proposal Writing jobs in California?

For Federal Proposal Writing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Proposal Writing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Proposal Writing jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Federal Proposal Writing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Federal Proposal Writing job openings:

Federal Proposal Writing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Proposal Writing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 79% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Proposal Manager (00587)

PMA Consultants Careers

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

$86K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

PMA Consultants is seeking an experienced Proposal Manager to lead the development of winning proposals that drive our national growth strategy. You will support pursuits across diverse markets, including capital improvement programs, transportation, energy, water infrastructure, government and public facilities, education, healthcare, hospitality, and private corporations. This role blends hands-on proposal leadership with strategic business development insight. You will manage the full proposal lifecycle, collaborate with cross-functional teams, shape pursuit strategies, and ensure the delivery of persuasive, high-quality proposals. Our Marketing team values initiative, creativity, and teamwork—we thrive on developing solutions, supporting one another, and driving PMA’s continued success.

Organizational Responsibilities
  • Lead the full lifecycle of major proposals and qualifications submissions, including competitive and multi-disciplinary pursuits.
  • Collaborate with leadership to shape pursuit strategies, including win themes, differentiators, and client-focused messaging.
  • Write, edit, and format persuasive proposal content and executive summaries tailored to client priorities.
  • Ensure proposals comply with requirements, meet branding standards, and pass quality reviews.
  • Coordinate cross-functional proposal teams, including kickoff, review, and debrief meetings.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for proposal-related inquiries with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Partner with Operations and Client Managers to maintain and organize reusable content, resumes, and project sheets.
  • Develop and maintain proposal tools, templates, and graphics to support efficient proposal delivery.
  • Assist in developing presentations and preparing teams for client interviews.
  • Participate in go/no-go decision processes and support market research, client analysis, and competitor insights.
  • Monitor industry trends and professional organizations to identify relevant events and opportunities for PMA participation.
  • Contribute to broader marketing initiatives, including social media, content creation, and event support.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Business, or a related field required.
  • 5+ years of progressive proposal management experience within the A/E/C industry or related professional services required.
  • Demonstrated experience leading large, complex, or multidisciplinary proposals.
  • Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills, with ability to manage multiple deadlines.
  • Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) required; experience with Adobe Pro, InDesign, and Photoshop is preferred.
  • Experience with NetSuite, OpenAsset, or similar CRM/proposal management systems is desirable.
  • APMP Foundation/Practitioner or CPSM certification is desirable.
  • Experience with public-sector and federal proposals (e.g., DOTs, GSA, municipalities) a plus.
  • The successful candidate will be placed within this salary range based on but not limited to the individual’s scope of relevant experience and geographic location.

The salary range for this position is $86,544 - $101,690.

A hired employee will be placed within this salary range based on a variety of legitimate business reasons, including but not limited to the individual’s scope of relevant experience and geographic location.

Additional Requirements
 
Physical: Standing or sitting for long periods; must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times and spend extended hours in front of a computer screen.
 
Cognitive: Problem-solving, written, and verbal communication skills; computer and software skills; and ability to read and interpret text online or in printed form.
 
About PMA
 
At PMA, employee well-being is a daily priority. We offer a combination of workplace options that include a PMA office location; work-from-home; or a client site. Wherever we work, we openly share knowledge as we believe that collaboration with peers improves our work product and that pursuing subject matter expertise is a lifelong endeavor.  
 
We are committed to a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We affirm and respect diverse backgrounds and opinions because we believe they yield the best solutions for our clients. We promote emotional intelligence and trust by nurturing these values within our new hires.  
 
We encourage staff to develop rewarding, long-term careers at PMA, and we implement formal leadership development programs that help you attain your goals. At PMA, shared success is a core value. Every employee who contributes is recognized, celebrated, and rewarded. We look for self-driven candidates eager to assume responsibility and join a community of respect founded on collaboration and accountability, not titles. If you aim to transform the project management practice toward continuous improvement of project outcomes, the profession, and yourself, PMA looks forward to warmly welcoming you to our team.  
 
We offer competitive pay and benefits, wellness programs for you and your family, and career development opportunities to advance your professional goals.  
 
As a PMA professional, you will be empowered to make timely and effective decisions and significant daily contributions to complex facets of project delivery. Join a team that has achieved a world-class reputation in the construction industry and has been voted a “Best Place to Work.” 
 
PMA offers competitive wages and comprehensive benefits, including medical, prescription, dental, vision, time off with pay, 401(k) with company match, life, disability, and professional development reimbursement for qualifying employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression), disability, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances. Qualified female and minority applicants are encouraged to apply.
 
EOE, including persons with disabilities and veterans.
 
VEVRAA federal contractor.