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Proposal Manager

Colorado Springs, Colorado

ABOUT SPHINX

Sphinx builds software to solve complex national security problems in Space. Founded by engineers and technologists with deep experience across commercial and defense technology, we were frustrated by the outdated and insecure technology America's service members are forced to rely on. We're here to do better. 

We’re focused on building modern, scalable products with an emphasis on using open source technologies. Expect talented, motivated, and interesting colleagues who emphasize collaboration, transparency, and individual responsibility.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Sphinx is hiring a PROPOSAL MANAGER to join our team and support our growth in providing  the next generation of software solutions and systems for space-ground programs. Our company is committed to delivering high-performance software that powers secure, efficient space missions to service the US Government for the next decade and beyond.

This Proposal Manager role is designed for a results-oriented professional who thrives in a mission-driven, software-centric environment and excels at leading complex, cross-functional proposal efforts that communicate advanced technical solutions to government and national security customers. You will play a critical role not only in proposal execution, but also in shaping capture decisions, supporting business development, and helping a growing company expand its footprint in the defense and aerospace market.

In this role, you’ll work closely with technical leads, engineers, subject matter experts, and leadership to evaluate opportunities, design proposal response strategies, and deliver compelling, compliant proposals that clearly communicate Sphinx Defense’s technical capabilities and mission value.

What you will be focusing on:

  • Lead and coordinate the development of high-impact proposals (RFPs, RFIs, and white papers), ensuring clarity, compliance, and alignment with customer objectives
  • Partner with technical teams, engineers, subject matter experts, and leadership to identify, qualify, and pursue high-value opportunities aligned with Sphinx’s strategic priorities
  • Support capture and bid/no-bid decision making by analyzing solicitation requirements, customer needs, competitive landscape, and mission fit
  • Translate complex software, aerospace, and mission capabilities into persuasive, customer-focused proposal narratives and value propositions
  • Design and manage proposal response structures, schedules, workflows, and responsibilities to meet submission deadlines while maintaining high quality and accuracy
  • Ensure all proposal responses adhere to solicitation requirements, internal standards, and proposal best practices
  • Contribute to win strategies, solution positioning, and competitive analysis in support of mission-critical opportunities
  • Build and scale repeatable proposal and capture processes to support business growth in the defense sector

You might be a good fit if you:

  • Have 5+ years of experience managing proposals in the defense, space, or government contracting environment
  • Have hands-on experience researching, evaluating, and responding to DoD RFPs, RFIs, and SBIR solicitations
  • Possess strong knowledge of the DoD acquisition process, contract types, and proposal lifecycle
  • Bring experience supporting business development and early-stage growth, particularly within small or emerging defense companies
  • Have direct experience working within the aerospace, defense, intelligence, or space industry
  • Demonstrate familiarity with command and control (C2) systems, mission operations systems, and associated software and infrastructure
  • Are able to coordinate cross-functional teams under tight deadlines in high stakes environments
  • Exhibit exceptional written and verbal communication skills, translating complex technical concepts into clear, compelling narratives
  • Show strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments
  • Are proficient with proposal development tools and collaborative platforms 
  • The ability to hold a Top Secret security clearance

LOCATION

This is a hybrid role based in Colorado Springs, CO, with a combination of onsite and remote work.

COMPENSATION

This role is between $115,000 and $150,000 base salary.

BENEFITS

Compensation includes competitive salary, meaningful equity ownership, profit sharing, employer 401(k) contribution, and 100% employer covered medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.

ELIGIBILITY

Must be a US Citizen.

Must be able to obtain and hold a U.S. TS/SCI security clearance.

EEO STATEMENT

At Sphinx Defense, we are devoted to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. Sphinx Defense is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

At Sphinx Defense, we are devoted to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. Sphinx Defense is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
 
CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here. 
 
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.  

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