Mid-Level Proposal Writer
Orbis · McLean, VA · 1 mo ago
OTHRFull-time
About the role
A detail-oriented Mid-Level Proposal Writer supporting Business Development (BD) and Capture teams to develop strategic, compelling, and customer-focused responses to Requests for Proposal (RFPs) for federal government contracts within the Intelligence Community. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator who can work independently, think critically, and produce high-quality written content in a fast-paced environment while collaborating effectively with BD/Capture teams and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).
Responsibilities
- Develop, write, and edit proposal content with a focus on technical accuracy, compliance, and persuasive messaging (RFPs, RFIs, white papers, and related deliverables)
- Ensure adherence to proposal style guides, templates, and standards (voice, tone, terminology, acronyms, and formatting)
- Format proposal documents to meet submission requirements and maintain a professional presentation
- Maintain disciplined version control and configuration management practices to reduce risk and rework
- Review and refine content to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with customer requirements
- Collaborate with capture managers, SMEs, program managers, and business leaders to validate technical accuracy and messaging
- Support and participate in color team reviews (Pink, Red, Gold), including comment adjudication and action tracking
- Leverage AI tools to improve proposal quality, efficiency, and content development
- Identify and mitigate proposal risks across active opportunities
Requirements
- Active TS/SCI clearance – Poly is desirable
- Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Marketing, English, Communications, or a related field
- Minimum of 6+ years of proposal or grant writing experience, preferably supporting federal or Intelligence Community customers
Skills
- Strong understanding of National Security mission, capabilities, and services
- Ability to manage the full RFP lifecycle from kickoff through submission
- Experience developing RFIs, white papers, and unsolicited proposals
- Proficiency in maintaining proposal repositories and reusable content libraries
- Advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Experience with proposal tracking tools, compliance matrices, and SharePoint workflows
- Knowledge of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) requirements
- Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail
- Ability to translate complex technical input into clear, customer-focused narrative
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Critical thinking skills and ability to work independently
- Willingness to adopt and integrate AI tools into proposal workflows
Desired Skills
- Familiarity with Shipley or APMP methodologies
- Experience supporting federal government proposal efforts
- Knowledge of proposal development processes and compliance standards
- Background in marketing coordination or business development support
- Experience supporting industry engagement activities or events
Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods of sitting and working at a computer
- Participation in virtual and in-person meetings
- Ability to work in classified environments for extended periods within the Washington Metropolitan Area