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Proposal Writer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Federal Signal

Proposal Coordinator

University Park, IL · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

The appropriate candidate for this role will provide comprehensive support to the Proposal ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * Organized, professional, and self-motivated.

Federal Signal

Proposal Coordinator

University Park, IL · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

The appropriate candidate for this role will provide comprehensive support to the Proposal ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * Organized, professional, and self-motivated.

Federal Signal

Proposal Coordinator

University Park, IL · On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

The appropriate candidate for this role will provide comprehensive support to the Proposal ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * Organized, professional, and self-motivated.

FUEL TECH INC

Sales Proposal Engineer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$123K - $184K/yr

Excellent writing skills, writing clearly and informatively, are required. * Microsoft Office ... proposal engineering, cost estimating, project engineering, or project management is required.

FUEL TECH INC

Sales Proposal Engineer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$123K - $184K/yr

Excellent writing skills, writing clearly and informatively, are required. * Microsoft Office ... proposal engineering, cost estimating, project engineering, or project management is required.

Summit LLC

Proposal Specialist - Onsite

Warrenville, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $95K/yr

We are currently seeking a Proposal Specialist based in Lisle area with hybrid in office/remote ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills. * Flexible attitude, a team-player and strong ...

Black & Veatch

Senior Proposal Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

The Opportunity As a Senior Proposal Coordinator , you'll lead proposal efforts from kickoff ... Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and communication skills. * Strong organizational, critical ...

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 ...

F.H. Paschen

Marketing Proposal Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $90/hr

Our Chicago marketing team prepares proposals and marketing materials for all offices, and we work ... Exceptional follow up and writing skills, attention to detail * Strong knowledge of Microsoft ...

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 ...

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Proposal Writer information

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$37.1K

$83.8K

$138.1K

How much do proposal writer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal writer in Chicago, IL is $83,764.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $93,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a proposal writer?

Proposal writers compose documents to gain support for a project, enter into a business agreement, or convince clients to buy products and services. To complete the proposal, they usually work with a team to research a specific issue, conduct interviews, collect information, and organize the data before submitting the application or sending the contract to a client. Proposal writers may work for non-profit organizations or private companies, or they may be freelancers who work for many different businesses. Some proposal writers specialize in a specific industry, such as grant writing for non-profit organizations.

What does a proposal writer do?

A Proposal Writer is responsible for creating documents that outline a company's products, services, or solutions in response to requests from clients or potential customers. Their main goal is to craft persuasive and clear proposals that showcase the value and benefits of their organization’s offerings, usually to secure new business or funding. Proposal Writers work closely with sales, marketing, and subject matter experts to gather information and tailor proposals to specific client needs. They must ensure proposals are compliant with client requirements and deadlines, and often manage multiple projects at once.

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

To thrive as a Proposal Writer, you need excellent writing, research, and organizational skills, often supported by a degree in English, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with proposal management tools (such as RFPIO or Loopio), content management systems, and sometimes APMP certification is valuable. Strong attention to detail, collaboration, and the ability to work under deadlines are critical soft skills. These skills ensure persuasive, compliant proposals that meet client requirements and increase win rates in competitive bidding environments.

How does a proposal writer typically collaborate with subject matter experts and other team members during the proposal development process?

A Proposal Writer often works closely with subject matter experts (SMEs), project managers, and business development teams to gather the technical, financial, and strategic information required for compelling proposals. This collaboration usually involves conducting interviews, facilitating content reviews, and coordinating input from various stakeholders to ensure the proposal is accurate and tailored to client needs. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are crucial to managing multiple contributors, meeting tight deadlines, and producing high-quality submissions. This teamwork helps ensure that the proposal aligns with both client expectations and company objectives.

Are proposal writers in demand?

Proposal writers are in demand across various industries such as government, nonprofit, and private sectors, especially for organizations that regularly submit bids and grant applications. Strong writing skills, familiarity with proposal management tools, and the ability to meet strict deadlines are important for success in this role.

How much does a proposal writer make?

Proposal writers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior proposal writers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, and some may work freelance or on contract for different rates.
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Proposal Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Writer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,764 per year, or $40.3 per hour.

Proposal Coordinator

Federal Signal

University Park, IL • On-site

$43K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Federal Signal rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

250th of 496 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.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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