Proposal Development Specialist Herndon, VA Posted

Akima is looking for a Proposal Development Specialist to play a key role in securing new business. Reporting to the Sr. Director of Proposal Operations, you’ll collaborate with cross‑functional teams to develop and submit winning responses to RFPs, RFQs, RFIs, and subcontract opportunities. In this high‑visibility role, you’ll work closely with Program Management, Business Development, Service Area leads, and Subject Matter Experts to produce high‑quality, client‑facing documentation that highlights Akima’s capabilities.

We’re seeking a detail‑oriented, proactive team player with strong communication skills, a knack for problem‑solving, and the ability to thrive under pressure. If you’re a self‑starter who drives results, keeps teams informed, and ensures every submission is strategic and seamless, we want you on our team!

Do you thrive in high‑stakes, fast‑paced environments where leadership, collaboration, and results matter? As a Proposal Development Specialist, you’ll be at the heart of our business growth, driving the development of compelling, high‑quality proposals that win contracts and fuel success. This role isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about orchestrating a seamless proposal process, inspiring teams, and crafting strategic, persuasive responses that stand out.

• Proposal Management:
• Lead and manage proposal development efforts from kickoff to final submission.
• Develop and maintain proposal schedules, outlines, and compliance matrices.
• Facilitate proposal meetings, including kickoffs, daily standups, color team reviews (e.g., Pink, Red), and debriefs.
• Coordinate and communicate with capture managers, technical staff, subject matter experts (SMEs), subcontractors, and graphic designers.
• Track proposal progress, resolve roadblocks, and ensure timely delivery.
• Be available to support proposal activities during evenings and weekends as required by proposal deadlines or critical milestones.
• Proposal Writing:
• Write, edit, and format proposal content in response to RFPs, RFIs, and other solicitations.
• Translate technical input into clear, concise, and compelling narratives.
• Ensure written content meets all solicitation requirements and evaluation criteria.
• Collaborate with SMEs to develop win themes, value propositions, and solution narratives.
• Edit and proofread proposal content for clarity, consistency, and compliance.
• Deliverables:
• Deliverables may include, but are not limited to:
• Proposal compliance matrices.
• Annotated outlines and writing templates.
• Draft and final proposal volumes or sections.
• Proposal content reviews and edits (Pink/Red/Gold).
• Final formatted and submission‑ready proposals.
• Debrief notes and lessons learned documentation.

• BS/BA degree, or equivalent in relevant experience.
• 3+ years’ experience in a corporate environment.
• Must have general knowledge of proposal process, with the ability to develop and track action items and timelines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft PowerPoint.
• Proven ability to work across organizations with effective communication, leadership, and project management skills.
• Proven attention to detail.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Ability to work in a deadline‑conscious, results‑driven environment.
• Highly organized, team‑oriented, enthusiastic, independent thinker, and collaborative.
• Having outstanding written and oral communication skills is critical.

Job

Work Type

Remote

Pay Range

$90,000 - $100,000

Regular - The company offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) and a range of other voluntary benefits. Paid Time Off (PTO) is offered to regular full‑time and part‑time employees.

Akima is not just another global enterprise and federal contractor. As an Alaska Native Corporation (ANC), our mission and purpose extend beyond our exciting federal projects as we support our shareholder communities in Alaska.

At Akima, the work you do every day makes a difference in the lives of our 15,000 Iñupiat shareholders, a group of Alaska natives from one of the most remote and harshest environments in the United States.

For our…