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Federal Proposal Writing Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Stantec

Proposal Specialist

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Working knowledge of federal procurement processes, solicitation requirements, and proposal compliance. * Excellent written, editing, proofreading, and verbal communication skills. * Strong ...

Jobtailor

Senior Proposal Writer / Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Shipley Associates Proposal Training/Certs (Desired) * 12+ years experience with proposal writing/management for Federal Government and DoD customers * Expert knowledge of industry practices * Strong ...

Command Holdings

Proposal Manager (Mid Level)

Tampa, FL · On-site +1

$80K - $95K/yr

Demonstrated experience as a proposal writer, proposal specialist, or proposal coordinator/manager in a federal contracting environment. * Experience supporting proposals for tribally-owned, 8(a ...

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Federal Proposal Writing information

How much do federal proposal writers make?

Federal proposal writers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the complexity of proposals. Senior writers or those with specialized skills in government contracting can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Many also work on a contract basis or as part of consulting firms, which can influence compensation levels.

Are federal proposal writers in demand?

Federal proposal writers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for government contracts and funding opportunities. Strong writing skills, knowledge of federal procurement processes, and familiarity with proposal management tools increase employability in this field.

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.

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 or certifications such as the Federal Proposal Management Certification can be beneficial. Familiarity with proposal software and understanding federal regulations are also important for success in this field.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Federal Proposal Writing jobs in Florida? For Federal Proposal Writing jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in Florida are hiring for Federal Proposal Writing jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Federal Proposal Writing job openings:
Federal Proposal Writing jobs near you

Vice President, Simulation & Training Proposal Management

Metova Federal

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light company, is recognized as a premier provider of modeling and simulation (M&S) training solutions to the Federal Government and industry. Since 2004, CESI has been at the forefront of developing, maintaining, and integrating simulation-based training, serious gaming, technical services, training, and other support in live, virtual, constructive, and gaming (LVCG) domains. CESI also designs, builds and runs infrastructure, platforms, applications and processes that enable cyber training for the integrated multi-domain force. Our vision is to become a worldwide full spectrum LVCG and cyber training/analysis developer, integrator and services provider.
By Light Professional IT Services LLC readies warfighters and federal agencies with technology and systems engineered to connect, protect, and prepare individuals and teams for whatever comes next. Headquartered in McLean, VA, By Light supports defense, civilian, and commercial IT customers worldwide.
Position Overview
Cole Engineering Services (CESI), a By Light company, is seeking an experienced and driven Vice President, Proposal Management to lead full-lifecycle proposal development for DoD Modeling, Simulation & Training (MS&T) and associated defense markets. This senior-level role owns the proposal process from kickoff through submission and post-submittal support, ensuring every deliverable is compliant, compelling, and deadline-driven.
The ideal candidate brings deep familiarity with federal acquisition, proven leadership of high-performing proposal teams, and a forward-leaning orientation toward AI-enabled workflows. This is a leadership role focused on winning-through disciplined process, excellent writing, and a relentless commitment to quality.
Responsibilities
Proposal Leadership & Execution
  • Own end-to-end proposal development for highly complex, competitive DoD procurements, including written volumes, oral presentations, and demonstration components.
  • Develop and enforce proposal schedules, outlines, compliance matrices, resource plans, and annotated templates.
  • Lead, organize, and motivate diverse proposal teams-writers, technical contributors, graphic artists, pricing analysts, and reviewers-toward on-time, high-quality submissions.
  • Conduct and manage structured color reviews (Pink, Red, Gold, White Glove) to drive continuous quality improvement from draft to final.
  • Translate win strategy and capture intelligence into compelling proposal narratives that differentiate the company and directly address evaluator criteria.
  • Manage post-submittal deliverables including oral presentation preparation, clarification responses, final proposal revisions (FPRs), and debrief preparation.
  • Coordinate with contracts, pricing, and legal teams to ensure fully compliant, responsive submissions.

Process, Tools & Infrastructure
  • Define, document, and continuously improve proposal management policies, procedures, workflows, and toolsets across the organization.
  • Champion adoption of AI-enabled proposal tools, including automated compliance checking, content curation, graphics generation, and predictive pricing support.
  • Evaluate and implement new tools and technologies that improve proposal quality, velocity, and team efficiency.
  • Maintain and grow a structured proposal content library (past performance, resumes, boilerplate, graphics) for rapid, accurate reuse.
  • Use Salesforce (or equivalent CRM) for tracking opportunity records, proposal milestones, and performance metrics.
  • Ensure all proposal activities comply with company policy and ethical standards throughout every pursuit.

Team Development & Mentorship
  • Recruit, develop, and retain a high-performing proposal team capable of executing multiple simultaneous pursuits.
  • Coach and mentor proposal staff-including writers, coordinators, and junior managers-in persuasive federal proposal writing and Shipley methodology best practices.
  • Guide team members in integrating AI-assisted workflows into their daily proposal work.
  • Communicate and influence effectively at senior leadership levels, including executives, BD directors, program managers, and technical leads.

Required Experience/Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, Communications, English, or a closely related field.

Experience
  • 10+ years of combined leadership experience in federal government proposal development and/or business development support.
  • 7+ years of direct proposal management experience within DoD and/or Federal Government acquisition environments.
  • Demonstrated success leading complex, competitive proposals across multiple contract types (LPTA, best value, IDIQ/task order, GWAC).
  • Proven experience managing proposal teams under compressed schedules and high-volume pursuit pipelines.
  • Strong understanding of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), DFARS, and DoD acquisition processes.

Technical & Domain Knowledge
  • In-depth knowledge of the Shipley business development and proposal methodology (certification preferred).
  • Hands-on proficiency with proposal management platforms and AI-enabled tools (e.g., automated compliance checkers, content management systems, proposal AI assistants).
  • Familiarity with the DoD Modeling & Simulation market, key customers (PEO STRI, SOCOM, joint warfighter commands), and competitive landscape.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel); experience with SharePoint, Salesforce, or equivalent collaboration tools.

Leadership & Communication
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write and edit compelling, evaluator-focused proposal prose.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams under pressure without direct authority.
  • Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to compliance and detail.
  • Ability to communicate and present at executive and customer-facing levels.

Preferred Experience/Qualifications
  • APMP certification (Foundation, Practitioner, or Professional level).
  • Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
  • Experience with oral proposal and demonstration management for DoD acquisitions.
  • Prior experience as a proposal writer or volume lead on M&S, simulation-based training, or software development programs.
  • Familiarity with LVCG (Live, Virtual, Constructive, Gaming) domain terminology and customer sets.

Special Requirements/Security Clearance
Please note that pursuant to a government contract, this specific position requires U. S. Citizenship status with ability to obtain a SECRET to TOP SECRET security clearance. Security Clearance requirements will be specified in the Government's Task Order.
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. The above is intended to describe the general contents of and requirements for the performance of this job.
Benefits Overview
CESI recognizes that our strength is our people. We support every employee as an individual to build strong teams across the enterprise. Our benefit package includes:
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage
  • Wellness Program
  • 401(k) Matching
  • Disability (Short Term & Long Term)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Education & Training
  • Generous Leave Policy (11 Federal Holidays, PTO, Military Leave, Bereavement and Jury Duty)

Cole Engineering Services, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, veteran status, membership in an employee organization, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local laws.

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