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Proposal and Pursuits Manager

San Luis Obispo, California

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology - solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

We are recruiting a Proposal & Pursuit Manager to play a critical role in the growth of the company’s U.S. and international defense business by managing the full lifecycle of proposals—from opportunity identification through submission. This position ensures timely, compliant, and compelling responses to Requests for Information (RFIs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs), and other solicitations from U.S. and allied government customers. 

 

Working closely with the VP of Business Development, Director of International BD, Contracts, Engineering, and Finance teams, this individual will establish and maintain a disciplined, repeatable process for managing pursuits, coordinating technical and pricing inputs, and ensuring consistent messaging across all proposal materials. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Opportunity Management 
  • Continuously monitor opportunity channels (e.g., SAM.gov, Grants.gov, DoD portals, and international equivalents) to identify relevant solicitations in UAS, Launched Effects, and counter-UAS domains. 
  • Track RFIs, RFPs, Sources Sought, and upcoming solicitations in a structured pipeline management tool (CRM) 
  • Support early capture activities by summarizing solicitations, identifying key requirements, and coordinating with capture leads. 
  • Manage Go/No-Go Reviews with data to support strategic vision on opportunities as they are aligned with the Company mission. 
  • Proposal Development 
  • Manage end-to-end proposal timelines, compliance matrices, and submission schedules to ensure all deliverables meet customer requirements and deadlines. 
  • Organize and facilitate proposal kick-off meetings, color team reviews (Pink, Red, Gold), and debrief sessions. 
  • Draft, edit, and integrate inputs from technical, financial, and management teams into compliant, persuasive proposal sections. 
  • Develop standardized templates, style guides, and reusable content libraries (resumes, past performance, management plans, technical sections, graphics). 
  • Ensure brand consistency and professional formatting across all submissions 
  • Compliance & Quality Control 
  • Review solicitations and amendments to identify mandatory clauses, submission instructions, and compliance requirements. 
  • Work with Contracts, Legal, and Export Compliance teams to ensure ITAR/EAR and data-handling compliance in all proposal materials. 
  • Maintain version control and document security for all sensitive proposal data. 
  • Collaboration & Reporting 
  • Coordinate with Business Development and Program Managers to integrate technical and pricing volumes. 
  • Liaise with Finance for cost/pricing data and with Engineering for technical solutions and performance metrics. 
  • Provide weekly pursuit status reports to the VP of BD, including progress toward submission goals, pipeline health, and upcoming deadlines. 
  • Track post-submission results, customer feedback, and lessons learned to improve future win rates. 
  • Support customer engagement throughout the lifecycle of a deal to include assisting with Customer Engagement scheduling in conference calls, events, site visits, and industry events.  

Required Qualifications 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Aerospace, Engineering, Communications, or related field. 
  • Minimum of 5+ years of experience in federal or defense proposal management (DoD, DHS, or aerospace/defense OEM preferred). 
  • Demonstrated experience leading proposals for FMS, DCS, or U.S. Government acquisitions (BAA, OTA, IDIQ, SBIR, or equivalent). 
  • Strong understanding of FAR/DFARS structure, proposal compliance, and bid evaluation criteria. 
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, and CRM/ERP tools. 
  • Excellent writing, editing, and organizational skills. 
  • Ability to manage multiple proposals simultaneously under tight deadlines. 
  • U.S. citizenship required due to access to export-controlled information. 

Preferred Qualifications 

  • Project or Program Management Experience 
  • Prior experience in UAS, missile systems, or defense technology sectors. 
  • Familiarity with ITAR/EAR, DD254, and government data handling practices. 
  • Working knowledge of DoD acquisition processes, color-team reviews, and cost-volume development. 
  • Graphic or layout experience (Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, or PowerPoint advanced formatting). 

Pay range for this role

$90,000 - $155,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits: 

  • Competitive total compensation package 
  • Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
  • 401k with company-match 
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

  • Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 

Note about our Texas roles: we are in the process of opening a location on the mid-west side of the DFW metro region. Roles in Texas will initially work remotely and then be expected to be onsite when that location opens in 2026.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E-Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E-Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.

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