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Proposal Manager Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

ABOUT THE ROLE GEM Technologies, Inc. is seeking a Proposal Manager to join our team! We're looking for someone who is an exceptional writer, has a collaborative and positive mindset, and understands ...

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, manages multiple priorities effectively ... Develop proposal outlines and templates, confirm compliance with solicitations, and use these ...

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, manages multiple priorities effectively ... Develop proposal outlines and templates, confirm compliance with solicitations, and use these ...

Lead kickoff meetings and manage pursuit team schedules. * Write, update, and proofread marketing content, including proposals, resumes, presentations, project descriptions, and other related ...

Lead kickoff meetings and manage pursuit team schedules. * Write, update, and proofread marketing content, including proposals, resumes, presentations, project descriptions, and other related ...

Experience as a technical lead, proposal manager, or pursuit lead. * Experience working under nuclear regulatory codes or another strict QA program (e.g., NQA-1, N299, ISO-9001). Location: Oak Ridge ...

Experience as a technical lead, proposal manager, or pursuit lead. * Experience working under nuclear regulatory codes or another strict QA program (e.g., NQA-1, N299, ISO-9001). Location: Oak Ridge ...

Aids and supports proposal team or proposal manager Education and Experience Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program or equivalent * Experience in utilizing ...

May act in th capacity of project manager, client manager or capture/proposal manager. * Build, maintain, and manage the necessary skills, resources, and expertise to develop and deliver strategic ...

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Showing results 1-20

Proposal Manager information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$26.5K

$86.3K

$124.1K

How much do proposal manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal manager in Oak Ridge, TN is $86,317.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,800.00 and $102,400.00 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.

What does a Proposal Manager do?

A Proposal Manager oversees the preparation and submission of proposals to secure business opportunities. They coordinate with technical, financial, and legal teams to ensure proposals meet client requirements and deadlines, often using tools like proposal management software. Strong project management and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Is a Proposal Manager a stressful job?

A Proposal Manager's role can be stressful due to tight deadlines, the need for accuracy, and coordinating multiple stakeholders. The job often requires strong organizational skills and the ability to work under pressure, especially during high-stakes proposal submissions.

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.

How much does a Proposal Manager earn?

Proposal Managers typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior Proposal Managers or those working in specialized sectors may earn higher salaries, and the role often requires strong project management and proposal writing skills.

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

Proposal managers in large organizations or consulting firms can earn salaries approaching $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership roles, and bonuses. High-level executive positions such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite roles also frequently reach or exceed this income level, often requiring advanced degrees, significant industry experience, and strategic responsibilities.

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 cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Proposal Manager jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Proposal Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Proposal Manager job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,317 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Proposal Manager

Proposal Manager

GEM Technologies, Inc

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 hours ago


Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE
GEM Technologies, Inc. is seeking a Proposal Manager to join our team! We're looking for someone who is an exceptional writer, has a collaborative and positive mindset, and understands the competitive landscape of federal contracting. The selected candidate will work closely with business development, company management, project teams, and industry partners to develop compelling, compliant, and winning proposals. In line with our corporate culture, this position requires a commitment to quality at every stage and expertise in the proposal development process, embracing challenges as they arise and adjusting with eagerness. This position is full-time and will be based out of our Corporate Headquarters in Knoxville, TN.
Responsibilities
  • Leads the preparation and submittal of persuasive proposals that are compliant with solicitation instructions.
  • Actively writes, edits, and proofreads technical volumes to include allocating writing assignments, determining page allowances to meet page limitations (as applicable), and defining proposal publication requirements.
  • Directs proposal phases, activities, and milestones including, but not limited to:
    • proposal kickoff meetings
    • data calls
    • brainstorming sessions
    • proposal writing
    • color team reviews
    • status calls
    • proposal production
    • post-award debriefs
  • Comprehensively manages the proposal development process by:
    • analyzing RFP requirements,
    • creating and implementing a proposal schedule,
    • organizing regular meetings, and
    • preparing a compliance matrix and data calls.
  • Develops and revises technical, management, and past performance volumes.
  • Reviews written materials and graphics submitted by the proposal team and offers feedback including specific ideas and strategies to enhance written sections.
  • Analyzes a wide variety of solicitation types and develops outlines and compliance matrices to ensure both compliance and responsiveness to client needs.
  • Creates, and ensures adherence to, the proposal schedule and outlines.
  • Guides the formulation and review of proposal win strategies/themes, discriminator development, and feature/benefit analysis.
  • Provides guidance and best practice support to proposal team.
  • Assists with supplier qualifications and relevant registrations, as needed.

Requirements
  • Education & Years of Experience - Bachelor's Degree in English, Technical Communications, or closely related and 5+ years of relevant experience in proposal writing and proposal management.
  • Must have expertise in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat.
  • Must possess a keen attention to detail when reviewing proposals.
  • Must be highly organized and a compelling writer, editor, and proofreader.
  • Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Must have the ability to conceptualize and create graphics that enhance proposal messaging.

Desired Skills
  • Knowledge of federal contracting guidelines and how they affect DOE and DOD proposals.
  • Experience preparing proposals for projects valued at more than $50M.
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and/or Canva.
  • Shipley Training and/or APMP certification.

ABOUT GEM
GEM Technologies, Inc. (GEM) is an award-winning federal contractor with more than 30 years of experience providing environmental, construction, facility management, and technical services to federal agencies, state and local governments, and commercial organizations. Founded in 1994 as a nuclear engineering firm to support federal operations in East Tennessee, GEM has since expanded into a nationwide, multi-disciplinary provider with over 270 employees and a diverse portfolio of contracts in the environmental, nuclear, and defense sectors. Some reasons to join GEM are:
  • Our philosophy - We believe in the power of effective collaboration and recognize that good partnerships are the building blocks to success.
  • Our relationships - Partnering with federal clients, we solve complex problems, exceed expectations, and advance critical missions.
  • Our team - We are committed to managing a cohesive workforce and cultivating a supportive workplace for our employees on contracts and in-office.
  • Our community involvement - Supporting our communities, we invest time and money in local schools and non-profit organizations.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
GEM's offered compensation is dependent on candidates' education, qualifications, and relevant years of experience. To recruit and retain our exceptional staff, we offer the opportunity to elect benefit packages that best suit our employee's needs; this includes, but is not limited to, a competitive Salary, Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (including HSA & PPO options), Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Life Insurance, and a matching 401(k) Retirement Plan.
Please Note: With the exception of mandated state requirements, GEM does not publish salary information on external job boards; as such, most ranges listed are estimates made by vendors and not actual salary ranges.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
GEM Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.