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Proposal Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Lead, Proposal Management

Yorba Linda, CA · On-site

$105K - $196K/yr

Yorba Linda, CA Job Schedule: 4/10: Employees work 10 hour days, 4 days a week The Proposal Manager would lead the development and submission of high-quality, competitive and sole-source proposals.

EEC Environmental

Proposal Administrator

Orange, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Proposal Manager to lead the development and submission of compelling proposals that advance our organizational goals. In this role, you will coordinate ...

Teichert

Proposal Specialist

Roseville, CA · On-site

Manages multiple pursuits concurrently while meeting quality standards and deadlines. * Coordinates ... Assists in proposal production in-house (print, assemble and bind). * Assists in creating ...

GFT.

Business Development & Proposal Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

The BD & Proposal Manager is a senior position that supports either multiple regional businesslines or one Global Business Line and contributes to meeting the goals in GFT's strategic plan by leading ...

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All JobsProposal JobsProposal Manager JobsProposal Manager Jobs in California

Proposal Manager information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$98.2K

$141.1K

How much do proposal manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal manager in California is $98,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Proposal Manager vs Proposal Coordinator?

AspectProposal ManagerProposal Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire proposal process, manages teams, develops strategiesSupports proposal preparation, coordinates document collection, assists with editing
Required SkillsProject management, leadership, proposal developmentOrganizational skills, communication, document management
Work EnvironmentLeads proposal teams, interacts with executivesSupports proposal teams, collaborates with proposal managers
CertificationsOften requires PMP or industry-specific certificationsLess likely to require certifications, more administrative

The Proposal Manager typically leads the entire proposal process, focusing on strategy and team management, while the Proposal Coordinator provides essential support in document preparation and coordination. Both roles are vital in the proposal development cycle, with Proposal Managers holding more responsibility for overall success.

What are some common challenges proposal managers face when coordinating cross-functional teams during the proposal process?

Proposal Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning schedules and priorities across diverse departments, ensuring timely contributions from subject matter experts, and maintaining consistent messaging throughout the proposal. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for navigating these hurdles. Additionally, Proposal Managers must be adept at managing tight deadlines and last-minute changes, all while fostering collaboration and keeping the team motivated.

Is a proposal manager a stressful job?

A proposal manager's role involves coordinating and preparing bids and proposals, which can be stressful during tight deadlines and high-stakes projects. The job requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail, and workload fluctuations can contribute to stress levels.

What is a proposal manager?

A Proposal Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the creation, development, and submission of business proposals, often in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) from clients or government agencies. They coordinate teams, manage timelines, ensure compliance with requirements, and assemble all necessary documentation to create compelling and competitive proposals. Their goal is to increase the organization’s chances of winning contracts by delivering clear, persuasive, and compliant proposals. Proposal Managers work closely with sales, technical experts, and other stakeholders throughout the proposal process.

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

To thrive as a Proposal Manager, you need strong project management abilities, excellent writing and editing skills, and a background in business development or related fields, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with proposal management software (such as RFPIO or Qvidian), CRM systems, and knowledge of RFP processes are typically required. Outstanding attention to detail, collaboration, and time management help Proposal Managers excel under tight deadlines and coordinate input from various stakeholders. These skills ensure that proposals are compliant, compelling, and delivered on time, increasing win rates and supporting business growth.

What does a proposal manager do?

As a proposal manager, your primary responsibilities involve preparing company proposals and working to ensure you meet goals on time. Your duties require you to collaborate with marketing, operations, business development, and other departments to review information and assess the most efficient and effective plan. You write a draft, prepare a presentation, and bring your recommendations to clients. You manage the request for proposal (RFP) from start to finish and assist along the way. You maintain the resource materials, check that you are following proper procedures and standards, and communicate with outside vendors as needed.

More about Proposal Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Proposal jobs in California? The most popular types of Proposal jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Proposal Manager jobs in California? For Proposal Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Proposal Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Proposal Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Proposal Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Proposal Manager job openings:
Proposal Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,188 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Pursuits & Proposal Manager - Los Angeles

SWA Group

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

SWA Los Angeles, an internationally renowned landscape architecture, planning and urban design firm, with studio across the United States and internationally. Our Los Angeles studio works at the intersection of public space, climate resilience, ecological restoration, mobility and community centered design-partnering with cities, institutions, developers, and public agencies to create landscapes that are both beautiful and enduring.
We are seeking a highly organized, strategic, and collaborative Pursuits & Proposal Manager to lead the development of qualifications, proposals, interviews, and pursuit strategies that position the Los Angeles studio for continued growth.
This role is ideal for someone with experience in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC), Landscape Architecture, or Planning industry who understands that successful pursuits begin long before an RFP is released. The ideal candidate will help organize, coordinate, and elevate the studio's proposal process while working closely with principals, project managers, consultants, and the firm's marketing and communications teams.
Position Summary:
The Pursuits & Proposal Manager serves as the operational lead for the studio's proposal process-from opportunity identification through proposal submission and interview preparation.
This individual will manage multiple concurrent pursuits, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, develop compelling and complete RFQ/RFP packages, and ensure that each submission reflects the quality, creativity, and technical excellence of SWA's work.
Success in this role requires exceptional organization, strong writing and editing skills, an appreciation for design, and an understanding of how landscape architecture firms pursue and win work.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead and manage RFQ/RFP submissions from opportunity identification through final submission.
  • Develop pursuit schedules, assign responsibilities, and ensure deadlines are met.
  • Coordinate proposal kick-off meetings, meet submission milestones, and provide strategic input for interview preparation.
  • Support Go/No-Go discussions and assist leadership in prioritizing pursuit opportunities.
  • Coordinate consultant teams and ensure timely collection of required materials.
  • Develop compelling qualification packages and proposals.
  • Write, edit, organize proposal narratives in collaboration with principals and project teams.
  • Maintain consistency in proposal quality, messaging, and graphic presentation.
  • Support ongoing maintenance of CRM systems and proposal databases.
  • Coordinate with SWA's firmwide Marketing & Communications team and proposal professionals across other offices.
  • Support strategic initiatives that strengthen the firm's overall pursuit capabilities.
  • Develop relationships with consultants, subconsultants, engineers, and strategic partners.
  • Attend pre-proposal meetings.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban Planning, Environmental Design, Engineering, Communications, or related discipline.
  • 3-7 years of experience managing proposals or pursuits within the Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC), planning, or landscape architecture industry.
  • Demonstrated experience coordinating RFQ/RFP submissions and interview presentation.
  • Exceptional organizational, proposal, and project management skills.
  • Excellent writing, editing, and visual communication abilities.
  • Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).

Preferred:
  • Master's degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban Planning, Environmental Design, Engineering, Communications, or related discipline.
  • Experience supporting landscape architecture, architecture, engineering, or planning firms.
  • Familiarity with CRM and proposal management software.
  • Experience coordinating with multidisciplinary consultant teams.
  • Understanding of public-sector procurement processes and permitting.
  • Interest in resilience, parks, infrastructure, urban design, and environmental planning.
  • Local candidates preferred.

Characteristics:
  • Thrives in fast-paced pursuit environments.
  • Enjoys managing multiple deadlines simultaneously.
  • Understands how design firms pursue and win work.
  • Appreciates strong graphic communication and visual storytelling.
  • Is highly collaborative and relationship oriented.
  • Is proactive, resourceful, methodical, and detail oriented.
  • Brings curiosity about cities, landscapes, infrastructure, and the future of the built environment.

Compensation:
$90,000 - $100,000
Competitive benefits package including health, dental, life, long-term disability, 401K, profit sharing, performance-based bonus. SWA is a 100% Employee owned company.
How to Apply:
Please submit a brief cover letter and resume/portfolio by Friday August 14, 2026.
Please limit the file size to 5 MB total. SWA Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
No phone calls please.

Apply