Proposal Manager

Job Title: Manager, Proposal Location: Onsite About Firehawk

Firehawk Aerospace is a leading propulsion-focused aerospace and defense company located in Addison, TX. Our innovative approach empowers us to design and manufacture cutting-edge solid and hybrid rocket motors and engines. We aim to push the boundaries of propulsion technology to serve both commercial and defense sectors.

Position Overview The Manager, Proposals is responsible for leading the end-to-end development of compliant, compelling, and competitive proposals in response to U.S. Government solicitations (RFPs, RFIs, RFQs, and Sources Sought). This role serves as the central point of accountability for proposal execution, coordinating cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality submissions on time and in alignment with win strategy. This individual operates in a deadline-driven environment, ensuring that proposal processes are structured, milestones are met, and all requirements are addressed. The role emphasizes orchestration, compliance, and execution rigor, ensuring that proposal teams are aligned, responsive, and operating efficiently across multiple concurrent pursuits. Responsibilities

• Proposal Lifecycle Management o Lead the full proposal lifecycle from pre-RFP planning through submission and post-submission activities o Develop and manage proposal schedules, milestones, and work plans to ensure on-time delivery o Establish proposal management plans, including roles, responsibilities, timelines, and risks o Serve as the central point of coordination across all contributors, ensuring alignment and accountability o Manage US Government, Foreign Military Sales (FMS) proposals, ensuring strict adherence to laws, regulations, and Delegation of Authority.
• Solicitation Analysis & Compliance o Analyze RFPs, RFIs, and related solicitation documents to extract requirements, evaluation criteria, and submission instructions o Develop compliance matrices and annotated outlines to ensure full and accurate responses o Ensure all proposals meet relevant federal requirements and agency-specific guidelines o Track amendments and modifications to solicitations and adjust proposal strategy accordingly
• Cross-Functional Coordination o Coordinate inputs from business development, capture, technical SMEs, pricing, and leadership teams o Facilitate proposal kickoffs, stand-ups, and working sessions to drive progress and resolve issues o Identify and address risks related to resourcing, content gaps, or schedule conflicts o Interface with capture managers to translate win strategy into executable proposal content
• Content Development & Integration o Oversee development of all proposal volumes, ensuring consistency, clarity, and alignment with evaluation criteria o Lead integration of technical, management, and past performance content into a cohesive narrative o Perform editing, rewriting, and quality control to ensure proposals are compelling and compliant o Technical and proposal writing experience is preferred but not required; ability to guide and refine content is essential
• Review & Quality Assurance o Plan and execute structured review cycles (e.g., Pink, Red, Gold Team reviews) to improve proposal quality o Track review comments and ensure timely incorporation of feedback o Enforce quality standards across formatting, messaging, and compliance
• Production & Submission o Oversee final proposal production, including formatting, graphics integration, document assembly, and submission o Ensure version control and document integrity throughout the process o Manage submission logistics (electronic portals, file structures, deadlines) to ensure error-free delivery
• Process Improvement & Knowledge Management o Maintain and improve proposal processes, templates, and content libraries o Capture lessons learned and incorporate improvements into future proposals o Support the implementation of proposal tools (Current: Monday.com) and collaboration systems to increase efficiency

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree from an accredited institution
• 8-12+ years of experience in proposal management, proposal coordination, or business development support within Government Contracting
• Demonstrated experience managing proposals in response to federal solicitations (RFPs, RFIs, RFQs)
• Strong understanding of federal procurement processes and solicitation structures
• Proven ability to manage complex schedules, multiple stakeholders, and tight deadlines
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail, particularly in compliance and document quality
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (especially Word) and collaborative tools (e.g., SharePoint)

Preferred Qualifications

• Technical writing and/or proposal writing experience
• Experience developing executive summaries, management approaches, or technical volumes
• Familiarity with FAR/DFARS and agency-specific procurement practices
• APMP certification (or working toward certification)
• Experience with proposal tools, content libraries, or automation platforms ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements: Employees in these positions must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; stamina to sit and to maintain attention to detail despite interruptions; may occasionally lift/carry/push/pull up to 25 pounds; may require minimal walking, standing for extended amounts of time, climbing, crouching, and/or bending; and vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May require the ability to travel by air or auto. May require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coat.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace At Firehawk Aerospace, we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind and help you thrive both personally and professionally. Health Coverage: We offer 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date. Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to free, confidential services, including counseling, legal consultations, wellness coaching, and virtual concierge services to support your work-life balance. Flexible Work Schedule: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance. On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day. Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Firehawk Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk Aerospace is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.