Bids & Proposals Specialist

At Project Lead The Way (PLTW), we are empowering students to thrive in an evolving world. We know that U.S. students must develop the knowledge and skills necessary to compete in the workforce, solve important challenges, and contribute to global progress. We know that teachers need support in empowering students to build these skills. Through our pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science, PreK-12 students learn problem-solving strategies, critical and creative thinking, and how to communicate and collaborate.

The Bids & Proposal Specialist is responsible for managing and optimizing PLTW's bid and proposal function to support organizational growth and mission impact. This role oversees the full proposal lifecycle, including opportunity identification, bid qualification, proposal development, submission management, contract implementation, and bid renewal activities.

The Specialist proactively researches federal, state, district, and other funding opportunities aligned with PLTW's strategic priorities and collaborates cross-functionally to develop compelling, high-quality responses. This role serves as a key liaison across departments to ensure accurate, timely, and competitive submissions while supporting operational excellence throughout the bid process.

Occasional on-site presence to support bid-related administrative activities is required.

• Experience managing vendor registrations and procurement portals.
• A Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent related experience.
• Bids and Proposal experience, including conducting RFP reviews, coordinating proposal development, and providing recommendations regarding bid/no-bid decisions.
• The ability to monitor public procurement platforms, funding sources, government websites, and federal, state, district, and educational agency procurement channels to identify bid opportunities aligned with PLTW's mission, strategic objectives, and growth initiatives.
• Experience analyzing proposal outcomes and identifying opportunities to improve bid strategy, processes, and win rates.
• The ability to proactively engage with school districts and customers regarding expiring contracts and renewal opportunities.
• The ability to coordinate completion and maintenance of required regulatory and compliance documentation, including CIQ, 1295, EDGAR, and other procurement-related forms.
• Experience identifying emerging trends, procurement practices, funding mechanisms, and best practices that may create new opportunities for PLTW.
• The desire to recommend process improvements and operational efficiencies related to proposal development and contract management.
• A customer-centric approach to all internal and external interactions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to build and nurture relationships.
• Superior organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• The ability to work independently with a hands-on approach and minimal supervision.
• Excellent project management skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• The ability to work independently, resourcefully seek answers, and remove obstacles.
• Complex problem-solving and analytical skills.