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Proposal Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The appropriate candidate for this role will provide comprehensive support to the Proposal Management process across all University Park groups, including contract vehicle coordination, vendor ...

You will have the flexibility to manage your days in support of our commitment to work/life balance ... Drafting proposal responses based on insight from prospect meetings and RFP requirements

You will have the flexibility to manage your days in support of our commitment to work/life balance ... Drafting proposal responses based on insight from prospect meetings and RFP requirements

We are currently seeking a Proposal Specialist based in Lisle area with hybrid in office/remote ... Strong attention to detail and time management skills. * Excellent verbal and written communication ...

Sales Proposal Engineer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$123K - $184K/yr

Provides input and information to sales managers and business development team to help produce profitable, concise proposals for client submittal and provides interface for clear definition during ...

Sales Proposal Engineer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$123K - $184K/yr

Provides input and information to sales managers and business development team to help produce profitable, concise proposals for client submittal and provides interface for clear definition during ...

Showing results 21-40

Proposal Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$102.6K

$147.4K

How much do proposal manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal manager in Chicago, IL is $102,570.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $121,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

Is a proposal manager a stressful job?

A proposal manager's role involves coordinating and preparing bids and proposals, often under tight deadlines and with high attention to detail, which can lead to stressful situations. The level of stress depends on workload, organizational support, and experience, but managing multiple proposals can be demanding. Strong organizational skills and experience with proposal software can help mitigate stress.

What are the most commonly searched types of Proposal jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Proposal jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Proposal Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Proposal Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Proposal Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $102,490 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Proposal Coordinator

Federal Signal

University Park, IL • On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Coordinate and facilitate proposal review meetings, including communicating requirements, capturing action items, and tracking follow-up items to completion.

  • Review and interpret solicitation documents and contractual requirements to identify deliverables and support compliant proposal submissions.

  • Oversee contract vehicle reporting and pricing updates for the University Park location, including Sourcewell, TIPS, HGAC, PCA, NASPO, and other cooperative purchasing programs, ensuring accurate tracking and compliance.


Federal Signal rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

The appropriate candidate for this role will provide comprehensive support to the Proposal Management process across all University Park groups, including contract vehicle coordination, vendor questionnaire management, and enterprise tracking of key activities. Serve as the lead for Starbridge support across all divisions, ensuring consistent processes and visibility into meetings, RFPs, and purchasing workflows. This role is critical to maintaining data integrity, improving cross-functional coordination, and enhancing efficiency, reporting, and compliance across proposal development and business operations.

Key Activities/Responsibilities 

  • Develop and maintain proposal support materials and proposal content libraries, including reference sheets, case studies, sole source letters, and other marketing and compliance documentation to support business development efforts.
  • Coordinate and facilitate proposal review meetings, including communicating requirements, capturing action items, and tracking follow-up items to completion.
  • Review and interpret solicitation documents and contractual requirements to identity deliverables and support compliant proposal submissions.
  • Proofread and format proposals to align with organizational branding and compliance guidelines.
  • Coordinate and track proposal deadlines, ensuring all submissions meet requirements and timelines.
  • Generate and maintain weekly/monthly reports on proposal success rates.
  • Update compliance metrics related to certifications like ISNetworld and Avetta.
  • Complete and manage vendor forms and questionnaires across all University Park operations, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
  • Oversee contract vehicle reporting and pricing updates for the University Park location, including Sourcewell, TIPS, HGAC, PCA, NASPO, and other cooperative purchasing programs, ensuring accurate tracking and compliance.
  • Serve as the primary lead for Starbridge support across all divisions, ensuring consistent processes and visibility into key activities including meetings, RFPs, and purchasing workflows.
  • Assist with tracking and reviewing Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs).
  • Manage dealer and representative insurance documentation, including requests, reviews, and ongoing maintenance to ensure compliance with company and contractual requirements.
  • Assist in securing pricing from reps for future Commander1renewals.
  • Act as the central point of contact for cross-department collaboration.
  • Assist with other duties as required.

Skills Required:

  • Associates degree recommended
  • Entry-level position, 1-2 years RFP-related experience preferred
  • Experience utilizing Smart Sheet, ISNetworld, and Avetta preferred.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Organized, professional, and self-motivated.
  • Strong planning and multi-tasking skills.
  • Able to work well individually and as part of a team.
  • Proficiency with MS Office software particularly Excel.
  • High attention to detail.

Salary range: $43,311/yr - $63,302/yr

Benefits of Employment

In addition to excellent career growth opportunities, Federal Signal Corporation offers a wide array of benefits including: annual bonus potential, insurance (life, medical, dental, vision), paid holidays, paid vacation, 401(k) with matching contributions and tuition reimbursement. We provide our employees with a smoke-free, drug-free workplace.

About Us

Federal Signal in University Park is a leading manufacturer and supplier of comprehensive systems and products used to protect people and property. Our products and integrated solutions include systems for campus and community alerting, emergency vehicles, first responder interoperable communications, industrial communications, and command and municipal networked security. Specific products include: lightbars and sirens, public warning sirens and public safety software.

Federal Signal Corporation (NYSE: FSS) builds and delivers equipment of unmatched quality that moves material, cleans infrastructure, and protects the communities where we work and live. Founded in 1901, Federal Signal is a leading global designer and manufacturer of products and total solutions that serve municipal, governmental, industrial and commercial customers. Headquartered in Downers Grove, IL, with manufacturing facilities worldwide, the Company operates two groups: Environmental Solutions and Safety and Security Systems. For more information on Federal Signal, visit: www.federalsignal.com

The Company is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against on the basis of, and will receive consideration for employment without regard to, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category, characteristic, or trait under applicable law. If you require reasonable accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resources at HR@federalsignal.com. All other applications must be submitted online.


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