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Proposal Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Impulse Space

Proposal Manager

Redondo Beach, CA · On-site

Engineering or science degree or a degree in journalism, English, technical writing, or professional writing * 5+ years' of demonstrated experience with writing government proposals or grants

Haley & Aldrich, Inc

Proposal Manager

San Diego, CA

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich, Inc

Proposal Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich, Inc

Proposal Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

Haley & Aldrich

Proposal Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

We are currently seeking a Proposal Manager to work in a strategic role with highly skilled ... Working closely with engineers, scientists, constructors, client leaders, and business developers ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsProposal Engineer JobsProposal Engineer Jobs in California

Proposal Engineer information

See California salary details

$59.2K

$98.4K

$126.8K

How much do proposal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal engineer in California is $98,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $112,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a proposal engineer?

Proposal engineers develop and review contract bids for projects based on what the client needs. As a proposal engineer, you gather supporting documentation to make the proposal more competitive. You determine costs and timelines, and may outline a variety of factors that may increase or decrease them. Projects may range from large building construction to software development. Proposal engineers must have extensive knowledge of the industry in which they work; they collaborate with sales and design staff to ensure the contract proposal accurately reflects what the company can provide the client. Some proposal engineers work for a consulting firm and are hired by companies, while others work in the sales department of a company.

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

To thrive as a Proposal Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project estimation, and proposal development, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with project management software, CAD applications, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems is often required. Exceptional attention to detail, effective communication, and strong organizational skills set standout professionals apart. These competencies ensure accurate proposals, clear client communication, and the ability to meet tight deadlines in a competitive bidding environment.

What are some common challenges proposal engineers face when collaborating with sales and technical teams, and how can these be managed effectively?

Proposal Engineers often act as a bridge between sales and technical teams, which can lead to challenges such as aligning technical feasibility with client expectations and tight deadlines. Effective communication and early involvement in project discussions help ensure that all requirements are clearly understood and realistic commitments are made. Building strong relationships with both teams and maintaining detailed documentation can help manage differing priorities and streamline the proposal development process.

What is the difference between Proposal Engineer vs Sales Engineer?

AspectProposal EngineerSales Engineer
Primary RolePrepares technical proposals and bids for projectsSells products/services by demonstrating technical features
Required SkillsTechnical writing, project understanding, proposal developmentTechnical knowledge, customer communication, sales skills
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, often collaborating with engineering teamsClient-facing, often traveling to customer sites
Industry UsageCommon in engineering, manufacturing, constructionCommon in technology, industrial equipment, manufacturing

While Proposal Engineers focus on creating detailed technical proposals to secure projects, Sales Engineers engage directly with clients to promote and sell technical products or services. Both roles require technical expertise, but Proposal Engineers are more involved in documentation and bid preparation, whereas Sales Engineers emphasize customer interaction and sales processes.

How much does a proposal engineer make?

A proposal engineer's salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior proposal engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, often supplemented with bonuses or benefits. Strong communication and technical skills are important for success in this role.
More about Proposal Engineer jobs

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

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

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

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For Proposal Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Proposal Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Engineer job openings in California 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 $98,352 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Proposal Manager

Craftwater Engineering, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$65 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Own The Process That Drives Our Growth

At Craftwater, the innovative work starts with winning proposals. We’re hiring a Proposal Manager to run point on RFPs, RFQs, and SOQs. Owning execution, driving accountability, and shaping the narrative are key to success. This is a high-impact role with direct influence on our growth.

What You'll Do
  • Lead proposal execution from kickoff to submission across multiple pursuits
  • Turn complex inputs into clear, compelling narratives
  • Drive accountability across teams to hit deadlines without chaos
  • Build and improve proposal systems, templates, and workflows
  • Stay ahead of upcoming pursuits so we’re prepared and organized
What We’re Looking For
  • 3–8+ years in proposals, bid management, or similar deadline-driven work
  • Experience with RFP/RFQ/SOQ processes
  • Strong writing and editing skills
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive
  • Ability to coordinate across teams and hold people accountable
  • Nice to have: AEC / Civil Engineering industry experience, InDesign/Microsoft Office, proposal platforms (PlanetBids, BidNet, etc.)
How We Work

At Craftwater, how we work matters just as much as what we deliver:

  • We think in about the entire system by understanding the bigger picture behind every pursuit
  • We build real connections with teammates and clients through direct, honest collaboration
  • We innovate with purpose, pushing beyond standard approaches to improve outcomes
  • We bring tenacity and don’t settle for “good enough,” especially under pressure
  • We hold a high bar for excellence by creating clear, accurate, and compelling deliverables every time

If that resonates, you’ll fit right in.

Why Craftwater

We’re a team that takes our work seriously, but not ourselves.

  • Flexible hybrid work schedule
  • A collaborative, low-ego environment
  • Real ownership and visibility into growth
  • Strong culture of smart, dedicated people working toward excellence

We’re doing big things and having fun doing it!

$65,000 - $120,000 a year

Benefits & Perks
  • Hybrid work schedule
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Concierge health benefits (medical, dental, vision)
  • Employer 401(k) contributions + profit-sharing eligibility
  • Personal development & mentorship
  • Professional and academic conference opportunities
  • Employee-focused reward programs
  • Local sports team season tickets

We expect a high level of ownership and quality and in return, your compensation and benefits will grow alongside your performance and impact.

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