Proposal Manager

Job description

We're seeking a skilled Proposal Manager to own and drive the full lifecycle of Spear AI's proposal efforts, translating complex technical and operational stories into compelling submissions that win mission-critical contracts. This is a high-ownership role where you'll manage a target number of proposals per month across a wide range of government solicitations, partnering closely with leadership and department stakeholders to uncover the right stories and craft them into winning submissions. You'll leverage tools like PRISM to scale throughput efficiently, and you'll be accountable for quality, compliance, and delivery at every stage — including final submission, whether you handle the mechanics directly or oversee them as delegated. Spear AI is a growing defense contracting company dedicated to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support our nation's security. As we expand, we're building a culture where innovation meets mission-critical work. We operate with a flat organizational structure that empowers every team member to make an impact, collaborate directly with leadership, and contribute to projects that matter. Whether you're joining our Hardware, Software, or Services division, you'll work alongside talented professionals who are committed to excellence and advancing the capabilities that keep our nation safe and secure. Spear AI builds sonobuoy sensors that are deployed into the water and collect edge data. We also work with the U.S. Navy to collect and process their SONAR data. You'll have an opportunity to work on real-world projects that directly impact warfighter capabilities and mission success. **What you'll do** We're a small team wearing many hats, and you'd have a wide variety of responsibilities that include: - Lead and own the full proposal lifecycle from pursuit kickoff through final submission, managing both the process and the writing — including timelines, reviews, and team coordination to ensure compliant, high-quality submissions every time. - Manage multiple concurrent proposal efforts across a wide range of government solicitations, including RFPs, RFIs, White Papers, Grants, BAAs, Task Orders, IDIQ contracts, OTAs, and SBIR/STTR programs. - Ensure strict compliance with procurement regulations including FAR, DFARS, GSA schedules, and GWACs throughout every submission. - Research and identify strategic government opportunities aligned with Spear AI's business objectives, staying ahead of the pipeline. - Develop deep knowledge of Spear AI's products and capabilities to independently draft compelling technical and operational content for proposals and white papers. - Partner with stakeholders — building trust, learning each team's story, and translating expert input into persuasive proposal content. - Interview subject matter experts and synthesize their knowledge into clear, tailored narratives, connecting the dots across inputs rather than waiting for others to fill in the blanks. - Manage collaborative proposal efforts with prime contractors and subcontractors, ensuring strategic alignment throughout. - Continuously refine and optimize Spear AI's proposal development processes and best practices to improve competitiveness and increase monthly output. **Why work with us** - We ship — We don't work on 18-month projects that are irrelevant before they're even finished. - Our work has impact — We build products that are deployed to U.S. submarines and integrate with the sonobuoys we manufacture. - We're growing responsibly — We have the resources to hire a lot more people, but we don't want to build a massive team of people who don't share our values. - We're profitable — We aren't burning through cash trying to make the business work. But we also have investors who believe in us and are committed to our success. - We care about doing great work — You don't need permission to sweat the details here. - We don't take ourselves too seriously — We're building products that make the world safer. But we don't let that get to our heads. **Important skills** - Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. - 4+ years of experience managing local, state, and federal government proposals. - Extensive knowledge of government procurement processes and contract vehicles, including RFP, RFI, RFQ, SBIR/STTR, IDIQ, GWAC, BAA, OTA, and CRADA. - Deep familiarity with regulatory frameworks including FAR and DFARS. - Proven ability to simultaneously manage multiple proposal submissions and consistently meet deadlines. - Expertise in proposal writing and editing, including structuring narratives that connect technical expertise to evaluation criteria. - Strong stakeholder partnership and interviewing skills — you know how to earn trust, ask the right questions, and translate expert input into compelling prose. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly articulate complex technical ideas to a range of audiences. **Nice to have** - Experience with maritime defense, intelligence, or national security agencies. - Familiarity engaging government contracting officers and procurement officials. - Experience managing proposals involving prime contractors and complex government solicitations. - Familiarity with cooperative purchasing agreements and various procurement processes. - Familiarity with PRISM or similar proposal management platforms. - Advanced degree in business, communications, defense technology, maritime operations, or a related field. **What we offer** - Unlimited PTO — Take the time you need to recharge and maintain work-life balance. - Dedicated sick time — Your health and well-being come first. - Comprehensive health and benefits – Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family protected. - 11 Paid Holidays — Enjoy time off throughout the year to celebrate and spend time with loved ones. - Professional development — Educational opportunities and resources to help you grow your skills and advance your career. - Collaborative environment — Work directly with leadership in our flat organizational structure, where your ideas and contributions matter. - Mission-driven work — Contribute to projects that directly support national security and make a real-world impact. - Growth opportunities — Join us during an exciting expansion phase where you can help shape our future. **Additional benefit opportunities when you choose Spear AI:** - 401(k) with company match. - Relocation assistance (position dependent). - Referral bonuses. - Performance bonuses. - Life insurance and disability coverage. - Technology home office setup stipend. - Professional certification reimbursement (position dependent). We offer competitive compensation tailored to your experience, location, and the impact you'll make. We're committed to equitable pay and will share a range aligned to your level and geography during the hiring process. In accordance with state law, candidates in jurisdictions such as CA, CO, WA, NY, and others, where applicable, will be provided a good-faith salary range upon request and throughout the hiring process. This is a full-time, exempt position under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible for overtime pay. Compensation for this position is provided on a salaried basis and is not subject to reduction based on hours worked. At Spear AI, you'll find more than just a job; you'll join a mission-driven team where your work directly contributes to national security. Our flat organizational structure means your voice matters, your ideas reach leadership, and your impact is visible. As we grow, we're committed to building robust processes and infrastructure that support both our mission and our people. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, and the expertise each team member brings to the table. If you're looking for a place to grow professionally while working on projects that truly matter, we'd love to hear from you.