Optimal Solutions & Technologies (OST, Inc.) is focused on excellence. We specialize in providing Management Consulting, Information Technology, and Research Development and Engineering services.
The fundamental distinction of the OST team is its business knowledge in both the public and private sectors. We serve the aerospace & transportation, association & nonprofit, defense, education, energy, financial, healthcare, and technology & telecommunications industries. OST is successful because we listen to our clients, we learn from our clients, and we know our clients.
Proposal Manager
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Proposal Manager to support federal, DoD, and SLED opportunities. This role leads the full proposal lifecycle, working with cross-functional teams to develop compliant, well-structured responses. The position requires strong writing, organization, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Description of specific duties in a typical workday for this position:
- Lead end-to-end development of technical and management proposals across federal, DoD, and SLED opportunities, managing the full lifecycle from pre-RFP through submission and post-submission reviews
- Translate RFP requirements into compliant, evaluator-friendly responses; develop outlines, compliance matrices, and storyboards aligned to Sections L, M, and C
- Collaborate with capture teams, SMEs, pricing, and leadership to define win themes, discriminators, and key messaging
- Write and edit proposal content to ensure clarity, consistency, and strong, persuasive narratives using strength-based writing (e.g., SUPS methodology)
- Leverage AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, GovDash) to support research, drafting, and content refinement while ensuring accuracy and compliance
- Manage color team reviews (Pink, Red, Gold, White Glove) and incorporate feedback into final deliverables
- Ensure all submissions meet quality standards, compliance requirements, and deadlines in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Requirements (Years of experience, Education, Certifications):
- 10+ years of experience in proposal management for government contracting
- Demonstrated experience managing full proposal lifecycle on complex, multi-volume submissions
- Strong understanding of RFP structure, including Sections L, M, and statement of work requirements
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple contributors under tight deadlines
- Exceptional writing, editing, and document management skills
- Experience developing compliance matrices, outlines, and review artifacts
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Teams, Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and Adobe Acrobat Pro collaboration tools
- Bachelor’s degree desired but may be offset by high experience level
- Active Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one)
Nice to Have:
- Experience supporting Managed Service Provider, (MSP), staff augmentation, or workforce solutions proposals
- Familiarity with DoW, Federal, State and local government, or similar public-sector environments
- APMP certification (Foundation or Practitioner)
- Experience with proposal automation tools (e.g., GovWin, SharePoint,)
- Ability to author, edit, and help writers and improve proposal tone and quality
- Experience incorporating AI-assisted tools to support drafting and editing while maintaining human review and accountability
This is a full-time position paying a base salary, and full benefits, and has possible bonus potential based on merit and performance. To be considered for this position, please apply online with a resume.
OST is an equal-opportunity employer. Applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, religion, gender, native origin, age, disability, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
