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Proposal Strategist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Proposal Strategist & Designer

Lebanon, TN · On-site

$66K - $76K/yr

Your job is to turn that conversation into a winning proposal. You identify the prospect's #1 problem, scope and price the right mix of our services (strategy, design, paid ads, video, websites ...

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Proposal Manager

$65K - $96K/yr

Each day, you'll drive proposal strategy, coordinate cross-functional teams, manage project timelines, and ensure the delivery of high-quality responses that align with client requirements and our ...

Proposal Manager

Mclean, VA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Contribute to the development of proposal strategies and proposal content to achieve goals in creative and effective ways. * Conduct thorough reviews of proposal content to ensure accuracy, clarity ...

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Proposal Strategist information

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$45K

$139.9K

$177.5K

How much do proposal strategist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal strategist in the United States is $139,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,500.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Proposal Strategist, you need strong project management skills, persuasive writing abilities, and experience in business development or marketing, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with proposal management software (like RFPIO or Loopio), CRM systems, and compliance standards is commonly required. Outstanding attention to detail, collaboration, and the ability to manage tight deadlines set top performers apart. These skills ensure compelling, compliant proposals that align with client needs and maximize win rates in competitive markets.

What is a proposal strategist?

A Proposal Strategist is a professional responsible for developing strategies, managing processes, and crafting compelling proposals in response to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) or other solicitations, often in business development or government contracting environments. They collaborate with subject matter experts, sales teams, and leadership to analyze client needs and create winning proposal documents. Proposal Strategists ensure proposals are tailored, competitive, and aligned with both client requirements and company goals. Their work is crucial for securing new business and maintaining a competitive edge in the marketplace.

How does a proposal strategist typically collaborate with subject matter experts during the proposal development process?

A Proposal Strategist works closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) to gather technical information, clarify requirements, and ensure the proposal addresses the client's needs effectively. This collaboration often involves facilitating brainstorming sessions, conducting interviews, and reviewing drafts to integrate SME input while maintaining a clear, persuasive narrative. Effective communication and project management skills are essential, as the Proposal Strategist must coordinate input from multiple contributors within tight deadlines. Building strong relationships with SMEs also helps streamline future proposal efforts and ensures content accuracy.

What is the difference between Proposal Strategist vs Proposal Writer?

AspectProposal StrategistProposal Writer
Primary FocusDeveloping overall proposal strategies, win themes, and messagingWriting and editing proposal content based on strategy
Required SkillsStrategic thinking, market analysis, communication skillsExcellent writing, editing, and compliance skills
Work EnvironmentCollaborative, strategic planning sessionsFocused on content creation and editing
Common CertificationsProposal management certifications (e.g., APMP)Writing or communication certifications (optional)

Proposal Strategists focus on crafting the overall approach and strategy for winning proposals, while Proposal Writers concentrate on creating compelling content. Both roles often collaborate closely but serve different functions within the proposal development process.

More about Proposal Strategist jobs
Infographic showing various Proposal Strategist job openings in the United States 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 $139,867 per year, or $67.2 per hour.

Senior Proposal Strategist

Burns & McDonnell

Kansas City, MO • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description
Burns & McDonnell's world headquarters in Kansas City, MO, is seeking a Proposal Strategist for its Environmental Services group who can lead proposal development for Request For Proposal (RFP) releases and manage assigned business development activities. The Senior Proposal Strategist is responsible for leading development of the proposal plan; the Request For Proposal (RFP) release and the process including end game, and checkmate for assigned business development proposals to win work for the company. This position will lead proposal efforts in collaboration with business development and project management leadership to develop distinctive value propositions that enhance our clients' competitive positions.
  • Lead the development and presentation of the proposal plan; draft storyboards, and a proposal/win strategy.
  • Lead proposal team assignments and initial proposal management plan.
  • Present at pink team review meeting and adjust proposal material in response to review and request.
  • Recommend proposal solutions during the review of the go/no-go decision and the official proposal kickoff meeting.
  • Lead and present proposal graphics and visuals.
  • Review and manage post-submittal activities.
  • Lead the interview practice sessions in the Checkmate phase.
  • Lead proposal services per the Checkmate phase to close out.
  • Support the development of metrics including change orders, safety, budget, schedule, diversity goals, and community involvement activities.
  • Manage the closing of the project deliverables.
  • Complete the submittal for industry awards (ACEC; ENR) local trade or national trade publications.
  • Attend professional associations, conferences, and build professional network and trade shows.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor Degree in marketing, communications, business administration, or related field. and 8 years in marketing, business development, or sales with a professional services firm. Experience at an A/E firm preferred; required or,
  • Applicable years of experience may be substituted for degree requirement; required or,
  • Experience with the Shipley best practice model preferred.
  • Superior technical writing abilities.
  • Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Adobe InDesign strongly preferred.
  • Certified Proposal Management Professional -APMP; preferred or,
  • Equivalent Preferred.

This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Business Development/Sales
Primary Location US-MO-Kansas City
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 10 % of the Time
Req ID: 263433
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-ME #ENS

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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