Proposal Manager

About Aquia Inc.

Named the “#1 Best Remote Startup to Work For in 2025” by Built In, Aquia is a digital services firm specializing in cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and compliance automation for the U.S. government.  

Founded by Veterans, we are passionate about making our country digitally capable and secure. Since 2021, we’ve generated millions in cost savings through cloud services and licensing optimization, enabled civil servants to double health care fraud investigations through streamlined cloud-based systems, and reduced authorization timelines by 74% through modernized security processes. Last year, we were named the 2024 Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business (SDVOSB) of the Year by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Public Sector Proposal Manager to lead the development of compelling, compliant, and winning proposals for federal, state, and local government opportunities. This role requires a seasoned professional who can manage the full proposal lifecycle — from capture support through submission — while working closely with business development, technical SMEs, and leadership. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced environment where deadlines are critical and collaboration is key.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the proposal lifecycle: Manage the end-to-end process for RFIs, RFQs, RFPs, and task orders, ensuring timely delivery of compliant and compelling submissions.
• Strategy & collaboration: Partner with capture and business development teams to shape win themes, discriminators, and proposal strategies tailored to government client needs.
• Content development: Write, edit, and manage proposal sections (technical, management, past performance, resumes, etc.), ensuring clarity, compliance, and alignment with evaluation criteria.
• Compliance & quality control: Create outlines, compliance matrices, and schedules; manage color team reviews (Pink, Red, Gold, White Glove); and incorporate feedback effectively.
• Team coordination: Facilitate kickoff meetings, solutioning sessions, and regular status check-ins with SMEs, subcontractors, and internal contributors.
• Process improvement: Contribute to proposal process enhancements, templates, and knowledge management to improve efficiency and consistency across efforts.
• Simultaneous management: Oversee multiple concurrent proposal efforts, balancing priorities while maintaining quality.
• Post-submission support: Assist with debriefings, lessons learned, and continuous improvement of Aquia’s proposal practice.
  
  

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, English, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 5+ years of experience managing federal government proposals across the full lifecycle.
• Strong knowledge of FAR, DFARS, and federal procurement processes.
• Demonstrated experience writing, editing, and managing technical proposals (IT, cybersecurity, cloud, or digital modernization preferred).
• Proven ability to lead and motivate cross-functional proposal teams under tight deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), Adobe Acrobat, and collaboration platforms (e.g., SharePoint, Teams).
• Excellent organizational, communication, and writing skills.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• APMP certification (Foundation or higher).
• Experience with GSA Schedules, IDIQs, GWACs, or large-scale federal contract vehicles.
• Familiarity with Shipley or other structured proposal methodologies.
• Experience supporting oral proposals or solution demonstrations.
• Background in Health IT, federal civilian agencies, DHS, or DoD opportunities.

Benefits

• Premium health care plans (90% employer-paid)
• Employee stock plan
• 100% 401k match (up to IRS annual max)
• Generous PTO package
• Personal training and development budget

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Aquia Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any federal, state, or local protected class.