Sr. Proposal Manager

Overview

Join Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) as a Senior Proposal Manager in Downers Grove, Illinois. CED develops products that protect our country, support warfighters, and enable space exploration. The role is full‑time and offers a competitive salary of $102.5k–$138.5k, a discretionary bonus program, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k) with a 6% match, 11 paid holidays, 5 paid sick days (full‑year requirement), and paid vacation.

The Senior Proposal Manager leads the development of compliant proposal submissions for U.S. Government and commercial contract pursuits. The manager coordinates with functional departments to schedule, kickoff, and finalize all proposal development activities, and oversees proposal submission reviews through the appropriate levels of authority.

• Act as primary interface with proposal stakeholders to develop Technical, Management, Past Performance, Schedules, and other sections for response to RFPs and prime solicitations.
• Develop and distribute schedules for proposal inputs, managing them to meet internal and external deadlines.
• Ensure compliance with FAR/DFARS/agency regulations and Small Business Administration requirements, including required proposal volumes.
• Advising stakeholders on proposal issues and developments.
• Build and maintain transparent customer relationships to support CED’s business objectives.
• Demonstrate sound interpersonal skills in coordinating and negotiating with personnel, customers, and suppliers.
• Make decisions using sound judgment while complying with policies, procedures, and legal requirements.

• Other special projects as assigned.
• Follow all company policies and procedures.
• Comply with government and corporate laws, rules, regulations, policies, and the Chemring Operational Framework, Code of Conduct, and U.S. Code of Ethics and Business Conduct.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Preferred: coursework in related contracts/subcontracts.

Experience

Minimum of 6 years of progressive related experience in proposal and/or contracts management within the Aerospace and Defense industry.

Skills & Requirements

• Lawful permanent resident of the United States (ITAR restrictions).
• Eligible to hold explosives under the Safe Explosives Act of 2003 as required by BATF.
• Proficiency with internal and customer systems such as D365, Exostar, WAWF, E‑Tools, etc.
• Professional certifications: ESI, NCMA, NAPM and/or college‑level certifications preferred.
• Prior experience reading, interpreting, and understanding U.S. Government and commercial solicitations.
• Experience with proposal and pricing compliance for sole source and competitive U.S. Government contracts preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks/projects simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills with effective communication, interaction, and relationship building.

Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or moving objects up to 20 pounds occasionally; requires sitting for extended periods with occasional walking or standing. Computer use required.

Chemring Energetic Devices (CED) is an equal‑opportunity employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or other protected characteristics. CED is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need an accommodation, please email  or call (630) 969‑0620.