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Proposal Writer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Appian Corporation

Federal Proposal Writer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Appian is looking for a Technical Proposal Writer, Public Sector to support our U.S. Public Sector sales organization in the coordination, development, and delivery of high-quality technical proposal ...

Yudrio, Inc

Technical Proposal Writer

Leesburg, VA · Remote

Understand complex IT solutions to the extent necessary to write or collaborate to develop the written response. * Participate in proposal strategy sessions, readiness reviews, kickoff meetings, and ...

GDIT

Senior Proposal Solutions and Writer

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$142K - $190K/yr

Skills: Proposal Strategy, Proposal Writing, Writing Certifications: None Experience: 10 + years of related experience US Citizenship Required: No GDIT is currently seeking a Senior Proposal ...

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All JobsProposal Writer JobsProposal Writer Jobs in Reston, VA

Proposal Writer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$37.5K

$84.5K

$139.4K

How much do proposal writer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for proposal writer in Reston, VA is $84,527.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,100.00 and $94,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How much do proposal writers 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, especially in government contracting or large corporations.

How do you become a proposal writer?

To become a proposal writer, typically one needs strong writing and research skills, a good understanding of the industry or sector they wish to work in, and experience with proposal development processes. Many proposal writers hold a bachelor's degree in a related field such as communications, business, or marketing, and may benefit from familiarity with proposal management tools and certifications like the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP). Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions can also help build relevant skills for this role.

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.

What is the work of a proposal writer?

A proposal writer creates detailed documents to outline a company's plans, solutions, and costs in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) from clients or organizations. They research requirements, organize information clearly, and ensure the proposal meets all guidelines, often using tools like Microsoft Word or proposal management software. Strong writing, research, and editing skills are essential for this role.

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.

Are proposal writers in demand?

Proposal writers are in demand across various industries such as government, non-profit, and private sectors, especially for organizations that regularly seek grants or contracts. Strong writing skills, familiarity with proposal formats, and experience with deadlines increase employability in this field.
More about Proposal Writer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Proposal Writer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Proposal Writer jobs in Reston, VA are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Proposal Writer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Proposal Writer job openings:
Proposal Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Proposal Writer job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,527 per year, or $40.6 per hour.
Proposal Writer - On-call

Proposal Writer - On-call

ICF International, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Are you a writer who gets curious when things don't make sense? We're looking for a versatile writer who is eager to learn, looking to connect the dots, and ready to wrangle terminology into compelling prose. You don't need to be an expert on the subject, but you do need to care about how things work and how to explain why it matters in a way people can understand. If you can bring clarity from jargon without getting lost in it and have experience with government proposals, we would love to hear from you.
As a Proposal Writer within ICF's Digital Modernization and Experience (DMX) Group, you'll help shape the story behind emerging technologies and public services, crafting narratives that reflect our vision, capabilities, and commitment to winning work that drives government impact. You'll work across technology and communication opportunities, distilling complex ideas about innovation, human-centered design, and data-driven services into plain language that's grounded in real outcomes. This role offers the chance to collaborate directly with delivery teams, subject matter experts, and key leaders, helping connect ICF's experiences and strengths to what matters most to our clients.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop, write, and edit high-quality proposals, including technical, management, and past performance volumes.
  • Review and refine proposal content produced by proposal teams to ensure clarity, accuracy, and alignment with Request for Proposal (RFP) requirements.
  • Lead technical writing efforts for strategic proposal submissions, particularly in areas focused on digital modernization, application development, data analytics, AI/ML, agile methodologies, engineering, and cyber security.
  • Engage actively in the solutioning process for proposals, collaborating with technical and business development teams to articulate technical approaches that meet specific client needs.
  • Create targeted capability statements and technical briefs that effectively showcase our organization's expertise in digital transformation, agile engineering, and data-driven solutions.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in English, Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related fields.
  • 10+ years supporting or writing federal and/or state proposals.
  • Strong critical thinking and analytical abilities.
  • Proven ability to engage productively with staff at all levels of an organization.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • 10+ years in a technical writing or proposal development role, ideally within technology, digital experience or communication sectors.
  • Familiarity with Agile methodologies and the software development life cycle (SDLC).
  • Strong organizational and communication skills with a focus on clarity, structure, and audience-centered technical writing.
  • Ability to adapt to shifting priorities and work effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience supporting projects directly or managing deliverables across teams.
  • Demonstrated interest or experience with AI and/or automation tools.

Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$108,476.00 - $184,409.00
Nationwide Remote Office (US99)

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