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Proposal Manager Writer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Cengage Learning, Inc.

Proposal Writer

Chicago, IL · On-site

This role reports to the Manager, Sales Operations and Support whose team is responsible for the successful evaluation and execution of Cengage School RFP submission for districts and state ...

Sodexo

Proposal Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$86K - $133K/yr

... written materials that engage clients and drive results. The role of an individual contributor ... Manage and support client relationships, oversee the proposal process from start to finish, and ...

DLR Group

Proposal Manager, Justice + Civic

Chicago, IL · On-site

We have an opening for a Proposal Manager, Justice+Civic . We operate within a hybrid work model ... Synthesize complex information streams into compelling written responses to client needs and RFP ...

Transdev

Proposal Director

Lombard, IL · On-site

$117K - $146K/yr

Outstanding written, verbal, editing, and presentation skills. * Ability to manage multiple ... Proposal Leadership * RFP Compliance Management * Project and Schedule Management * Strategic ...

Transdev

Proposal Director

Lombard, IL · On-site

$117K - $146K/yr

Outstanding written, verbal, editing, and presentation skills. * Ability to manage multiple ... Proposal Leadership * RFP Compliance Management * Project and Schedule Management * Strategic ...

Norton Rose Fulbright

Manager, Proposals

Chicago, IL · On-site

... proposal lifecycle support across the US practices, ensuring responses are completed in an ... Write, edit, and manage up-to-date practice and experience descriptions and copy. * Support the ...

Endeavor Health

Philanthropy Writer

Evanston, IL · On-site

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Philanthropy Writer Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy Communications and Donor Relations ... Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead theend-to-end project management and creationof major gift ...

NorthShore

Philanthropy Writer

Evanston, IL · On-site

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Philanthropy Writer Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy Communications and Donor Relations ... Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead the end-to-end project management and creation of major ...

Endeavor Health

Philanthropy Writer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Philanthropy Writer Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy Communications and Donor Relations ... Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead theend-to-end project management and creationof major gift ...

Federal Signal

Proposal Coordinator

University Park, IL · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Complete and manage vendor forms and questionnaires across all University Park operations, ensuring ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * Organized, professional, and self-motivated.

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All JobsProposal Writer JobsProposal Manager Writer JobsProposal Manager Writer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Proposal Manager Writer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$58.7K

$108.3K

$154.5K

How much do proposal manager writer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal manager writer in Chicago, IL is $108,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $124,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a proposal manager writer?

Proposal Manager Writers are professionals who lead and coordinate the development of business proposals in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) or other bid opportunities. They manage the proposal process from start to finish, ensuring that all requirements are met and that the final submission is clear, persuasive, and compliant with client specifications. Their responsibilities often include managing timelines, collaborating with subject matter experts, writing and editing proposal content, and ensuring adherence to company and client standards. Proposal Manager Writers play a critical role in helping organizations win new business by producing high-quality, compelling proposals.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a proposal manager writer?

To thrive as a Proposal Manager Writer, you need strong writing, editing, project management skills, and typically a bachelor's degree in communications, English, or a related field. Familiarity with proposal management tools like RFPIO, MS Office Suite, and knowledge of RFP processes or certifications such as APMP are highly valued. Exceptional attention to detail, collaboration, and time management are important soft skills for producing compelling, compliant proposals under tight deadlines. These skills are critical to winning new business and ensuring the organization submits high-quality, persuasive proposals that meet client requirements.

What are common challenges faced by proposal manager writers during the proposal development process?

Proposal Manager Writers often face tight deadlines and the need to coordinate input from multiple stakeholders, such as subject matter experts, sales teams, and executives. Balancing quality writing with strict compliance to client requirements and formatting guidelines can be challenging. Additionally, managing multiple proposals simultaneously while maintaining consistency and accuracy requires strong organizational and communication skills. Successful Proposal Manager Writers develop efficient workflows and foster strong collaboration to overcome these challenges.

What is the difference between Proposal Manager Writer vs Proposal Coordinator?

AspectProposal Manager WriterProposal Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires experience in proposal writing, industry-specific knowledge, and strong communication skillsOften has similar credentials but may focus more on administrative and coordination skills
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with proposal teams, subject matter experts, and management to develop proposalsSupports proposal teams by organizing materials, scheduling, and tracking proposal progress
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in government, defense, and large corporate sectorsUsed across similar industries for proposal support roles

The Proposal Manager Writer focuses on creating and editing proposal content, ensuring quality and compliance, while the Proposal Coordinator handles the logistical and administrative aspects of proposal development. Both roles are essential in the proposal process but differ in responsibilities and focus areas.

Are proposal manager writers in demand?

Proposal manager writers are in demand in industries such as government contracting, engineering, and consulting, where strong proposal development skills are essential. They often require expertise in technical writing, project management, and familiarity with proposal software, with employment opportunities increasing as organizations seek competitive bids.

How much do proposal manager writers get paid?

Proposal manager writers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require strong writing, project management skills, and familiarity with proposal software tools.

What is the difference between a proposal writer and a proposal manager?

A proposal writer is responsible for creating the content of proposals, focusing on writing clear and compelling responses to RFPs, while a proposal manager oversees the entire proposal process, coordinating teams, managing deadlines, and ensuring compliance with requirements. Proposal managers often have project management skills and use tools like proposal management software to streamline workflows.

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Proposal Manager Writer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Proposal Manager Writer job openings:

Proposal Manager Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Manager Writer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,277 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Proposal Writer

Cengage Learning, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

We believe in the power and joy of learning
At Cengage, our employees have a direct impact in helping learners around the world discover the power and joy of learning. We are bonded by our shared purpose - driving innovation that helps millions of learners improve their lives and achieve their dreams through education.
The Proposal Writer for our K-12 learning market is responsible for managing the Request for Proposal (RFP) process and will engage key internal partners to develop a proposal strategy that balances customer and channel priorities.
This role reports to the Manager, Sales Operations and Support whose team is responsible for the successful evaluation and execution of Cengage School RFP submission for districts and state departments of education. The successful candidate will support the effective project management of the bid process with on-time, high-quality responses by ensuring each proposal submission aligns with client need and represents Cengage's highest quality standards.
In this position, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a content library that clearly, concisely, and accurately articulates our proposed solution to the solicitation instructions and evaluation criteria. You will work alongside our sales, marketing, and product teams to audit and maintain a library of resources that contains up-to-date messaging and branding. In addition, you are encouraged to look for efficiencies to streamline and scale templates, processes, and systems.
What you'll do here:
  • Support all aspects of the RFP process from start to finish, including RFP vetting, strategy calls, content collaboration, editing, and proposal preparation.
  • Analyze RFP bid to determine compliant response structure and format.
  • Generate detailed response plans, schedules, and technical elements in the development of proposals in accordance with proposal specifications.
  • Delegate tasks to team members as appropriate.
  • Partner with the Sales team to create innovative approaches and deliverables to differentiate proposals to assure a winning first impression.
  • Identify gaps in the current RFP response model strategy, then propose new insights and secure support from internal partners to implement improvements within the processes, systems, and/or templates.
  • Track, evaluate, and improve RFP responses based on customer feedback, sales needs, and market research.
  • Complete other duties as assigned to meet company goals.

Skills you will need here:
  • A minimum of 2 years experience in proposal management with sales support or writing.
  • BA/BS in writing, communications, marketing, or related field.
  • Ability to serve as team mentor to coordinate proposal efforts simultaneously within tight timeframes.
  • Prior success in developing, implementing, and evaluating proposals that balance user needs with business requirements.
  • Strong interpersonal skills: the ability to empathize, support, and anticipate the needs of external customers and internal teammates/departments.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication with the ability to influence and align stakeholders while driving for results.
  • Able to remain agile while successfully project managing a high volume of work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Understanding of emerging proposal trends, technologies, and integration strategies.
  • Provide value to each proposal being developed as a knowledgeable resource and strategic problem solver.
  • Proficient with MS Office suite and Adobe Suite

Preferred Skills/Knowledge/Experience:
  • Experience working within the K12 education industry.
  • Previous experience working with proposal management software (Responsive)

Cengage is committed to working with broad talent pools to attract and hire strong and most qualified individuals. Our job applicants are considered regardless of any classification protected by applicable federal, state, provincial or local laws.
Cengage is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities including during our job application process. If you are an applicant with a disability and require reasonable accommodation in our job application process, please contact us at accommodations.ta@cengage.com.
About Cengage
Cengage, a global education technology company serving millions of learners, provides affordable, quality digital products and services that equip students with the skills and competencies needed to be job ready. For more than 100 years, we have enabled the power and joy of learning with trusted, engaging content, and now, integrated digital platforms. We serve the higher education, workforce skills, secondary education, English language teaching and research markets worldwide. Through our scalable technology, including MindTap and Cengage Unlimited, we support all learners who seek to improve their lives and achieve their dreams through education.
Compensation
At Cengage Group, we take great pride in our commitment to providing a comprehensive and rewarding Total Rewards package designed to support and empower our employees. Click here to learn more about our Total Rewards Philosophy.
The full base pay range has been provided for this position. Individual base pay will vary based on work schedule, qualifications, experience, internal equity, and geographic location. Sales roles often incorporate a significant incentive compensation program beyond this base pay range.
$67,000.00 - $87,100.00 USD

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