ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Proposal Development Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McKesson

Proposal Development Specialist

Irving, TX · On-site

The Proposal Development Specialist leads and supports the strategic development of moderate to complex, high-value Request for Proposals (RFPs) for both new and existing distribution customers. This ...

McKesson

Proposal Development Specialist

Irving, TX

The Proposal Development Specialist leads and supports the strategic development of moderate to complex, high-value Request for Proposals (RFPs) for both new and existing distribution customers. This ...

Wesco

Manager - Proposal Development

Lewisville, TX · On-site +1

Leads, supervises and reviews work of Proposal Development Specialists. * Facilitates meetings with senior Sales, Strategy, and Finance management to formulate proforma analyses of large, complex ...

Pfluger Architects

Proposal Specialist

Austin, TX · On-site

Texas Description The Proposal Specialist drives strategic proposal development initiatives to elevate Pfluger's competitiveness and market position. This role leads the creation of compelling, well ...

Owens Realty Services

Proposal Specialist

Orlando, FL · On-site

Proposal Specialist Proposal Specialist Full-Time | On-site We are seeking a highly skilled, detail ... Key Responsibilities Proposal Development * Write, edit, and format proposal responses ...

JQOL

Business Development Specialist

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Job Title: Business Development Specialist Job Summary: As a Business Development Specialist at ... Proposal Development: * Collaborate with the technical team to create compelling proposals and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProposal Development Specialist Jobs

Proposal Development Specialist information

See salary details

$36K

$71.3K

$104.5K

How much do proposal development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal development specialist in the United States is $71,250.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Proposal Development Specialist, and why are they important?

To succeed as a Proposal Development Specialist, you need strong writing, editing, and project management skills, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in communications, English, or a related field. Familiarity with proposal management software (such as RFPIO or Qvidian), Microsoft Office Suite, and knowledge of RFP/RFI processes are typically required. Attention to detail, collaboration, and effective communication are essential soft skills for managing deadlines and coordinating with multiple stakeholders. These abilities are crucial for producing compelling, compliant proposals that enhance an organization’s chances of winning new business.

How does a Proposal Development Specialist typically collaborate with subject matter experts during the proposal process?

As a Proposal Development Specialist, collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs) is a key part of the role. You'll often coordinate meetings, gather technical input, and translate complex information from SMEs into clear, compelling content that aligns with the client's requirements. Effective communication skills are essential, as you'll need to clarify expectations, manage timelines, and ensure all contributions are integrated into a cohesive proposal. Building strong, professional relationships with SMEs helps streamline the review process and improves the overall quality of the final submission.

What is the career path of a proposal specialist?

A proposal development specialist typically starts in entry-level roles such as proposal coordinator or assistant, gaining experience in project management, technical writing, and compliance. With experience, they can advance to senior proposal manager, proposal director, or move into related roles like business development or program management, often requiring strong communication skills and familiarity with proposal software tools.

What is the difference between Proposal Development Specialist vs Proposal Coordinator?

AspectProposal Development SpecialistProposal Coordinator
Primary RoleDevelops and writes detailed proposals, manages proposal content, and ensures compliance with RFP requirements.Coordinates proposal activities, manages schedules, and facilitates communication among team members.
Required SkillsStrong writing, research, and proposal development skills; familiarity with industry standards.Organizational, communication, and project management skills.
Work EnvironmentTypically works in proposal teams within government or corporate sectors.Supports proposal teams, often in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.

While both roles support proposal efforts, the Proposal Development Specialist focuses on creating and writing proposals, whereas the Proposal Coordinator manages the process and logistics. Both positions are essential in winning bids and often collaborate closely.

What does a Proposal Development Specialist do?

A Proposal Development Specialist is responsible for managing and coordinating the creation of proposals, typically in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) from clients or funding agencies. They gather information from various stakeholders, write and edit proposal content, ensure compliance with requirements, and help develop strategies to make proposals competitive. Their goal is to produce clear, compelling documents that increase the chances of winning new business or securing funding. They often work closely with subject matter experts, project managers, and business development teams.

What is a proposal development specialist?

A proposal development specialist is a professional responsible for preparing and coordinating grant or contract proposals for organizations. They gather requirements, write and edit proposal content, ensure compliance with guidelines, and often use tools like Microsoft Office or proposal management software to meet deadlines. This role requires strong writing, project management skills, and knowledge of funding processes.

What is a proposal specialist?

A proposal specialist is a professional responsible for preparing, coordinating, and submitting proposals to secure contracts or funding for organizations. They often work with cross-functional teams, understand client requirements, and use tools like Microsoft Office or proposal management software to create compelling and compliant proposals.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and successful entrepreneurs can earn $500,000 or more annually. Certain roles in finance, law, and technology, especially with bonuses, stock options, or ownership stakes, also reach this level. Achieving such income typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership responsibilities.
More about Proposal Development Specialist jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Proposal Development Specialist jobs? The top employers for Proposal Development Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Proposal Development Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Proposal Development Specialist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Proposal Development Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Proposal Development Specialist jobs are:
Proposal Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Development Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,250 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Proposal Development Specialist

Proposal Development Specialist

Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$55K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Georgia State University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

253rd of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description:
Proposal Development Specialist
Office of Research / University Research Centers
Research & Economic Development
Georgia State University
Georgia State University has been one of the fastest growing research universities in the nation over the past decade. The Office of the Vice President for Research and Economic Development (VPRED) at Georgia State University is dedicated to supporting research and instructional laboratories, animal facilities, Sponsored Programs and environmental programs to ensure regulatory compliance, guidance, and best practices for the health and safety of our campuses and surrounding community. We strive to create an environment that fosters excellence, teamwork, and accountability.
Research & Economic Development is seeking (1) dedicated and experienced Proposal Development Specialist
WHAT MAKES THE OFFICE OF RESEARCH A GREAT PLACE?
• Generous benefits, including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, etc.
• A knowledge-sharing organization that works collaboratively with diverse partners.
• Professional development opportunities and mentorship.
• A rapidly growing center within an academic setting.
HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL DO
The Proposal Development Specialist provides direct, hands-on support to faculty in developing competitive external funding proposals, with a primary focus on proposal strategy, writing support, and submission readiness. Additionally, this position contributes to institutional research growth by supporting internal grant recipients in advancing projects toward external funding.
This role is faculty-facing and execution-oriented, with an emphasis on improving proposal quality and competitiveness rather than administrative processing.
The essential duties and responsibilities of the Proposal Development Specialist the following:
• Faculty Proposal Development
o Work directly with faculty to develop external grant proposals from early concept through submission
o Provide substantive editing and feedback on proposal narratives, including clarity, structure, and alignment with sponsor priorities
o Guide faculty on positioning, framing, and responsiveness to funding opportunity announcement
• Grantsmanship Training
o Provide targeted coaching for early-career investigators and resubmissions
o Create and update resources such as templates, guides, and examples
o Partner with internal stakeholders on targeted grantsmanship training and sponsor-specific resource creation
• Research Funding Pipeline Development
o Support the development of a robust pipeline of projects advancing toward external funding, including internal grant recipients, high-scoring unfunded proposals, and emerging faculty-led ideas
o Collaborate with stakeholders to identify and track upcoming funding opportunities that align with strategic priorities
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Ability to solve problems, exercise judgement & make decisions with little assistance from the supervisor.
• Familiarity with tools and databases for managing grant funds regulations.
• Knowledge of federal and sponsor guidelines
• Proficiency in creating and formatting financial templates and proposals.
Disclaimer:
This job requisition provides a high-level job definition. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive or exclusive list of job duties.
As such, job duties and/or responsibilities within the context of this job requisition may change at the discretion the employee's direct supervisor.
Qualifications:
Minimum Hiring Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree and two years of related experience; or a combination of education and related experience.

Preferred Hiring Qualifications
  • At least one year of research development experience
  • Strong writing and editing skills, especially for technical and academic content.

Salary offers will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications in relation to the Minimum Hiring Standards. Candidates earlier in their careers are typically offered salaries closer to the minimum of the hiring range, while those with more advanced or relevant experience may be considered for compensation at or above the hiring range.

What Georgia State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply