Proposal Writer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of business communication, the demand for proposal writers has never been greater.

As industries evolve, the need for skilled individuals who can craft, refine, and effectively communicate business strategies and ideas increases.

So, what exactly is expected from a proposal writer?

Regardless of whether you are:

• An aspiring candidate trying to understand the core of this role,
• An employer shaping the profile of the perfect applicant,
• Or just fascinated by the world of proposal writing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable proposal writer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Proposal Writer Duties and Responsibilities

Proposal Writers specialize in creating structured, well-organized proposals to win new business or gain support for projects.

They work closely with various teams within an organization to gather necessary information for writing compelling proposals.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Understand and interpret proposal instructions and requirements
• Conduct extensive research to understand the project or business opportunity in detail
• Work closely with subject matter experts to gather necessary information
• Write clear, persuasive, and concise proposals
• Edit and revise proposals based on feedback
• Maintain and manage a library of proposal content for future use
• Ensure all deadlines are met and proposals are submitted on time
• Coordinate with graphic designers to incorporate necessary visuals in the proposal
• Keep updated on industry trends to effectively address potential client concerns or questions
• Review and evaluate proposal feedback to improve future submissions
• Participate in presentations or discussions with clients when required

 

Proposal Writer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Proposal Writer to join our team.

The Proposal Writer will be responsible for developing and writing compelling proposals and grant applications in response to funding opportunities.

This includes understanding the requirements, designing the proposal structure, and creating persuasive content to convince the prospective client or funding body.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of proposal development, excellent research skills, and the ability to turn complex information into clear and compelling narratives.

 

Responsibilities

• Understand and analyze request for proposals (RFPs), request for quotations (RFQs), and invitation for bids (IFBs).
• Conduct thorough research to gather all relevant information about the proposal subject.
• Develop and organize compelling proposals in accordance with the company’s strategy and compliance with the client’s requirements.
• Write, revise, and edit drafts including executive summaries, conclusions, and organization credentials.
• Work with the team to ensure the timely submission of proposals.
• Coordinate with various departments to gather necessary information for proposals.
• Maintain and improve proposal database.
• Provide feedback and recommendations for improving proposal processes.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Proposal Writer or similar role.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong research skills.
• Ability to manage multiple proposals and deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other related software.
• Understanding of business and marketing language.
• Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Marketing, or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Proposal Writer
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Occasional travel may be required for meetings or site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Proposal Manager or Business Development Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $48,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Proposal Writer Do?

A Proposal Writer is typically employed by a business organization or nonprofit to draft and edit proposals that outline the organization’s services, products, or project plans.

They may also work as a self-employed individual or freelance writer.

Their key role is to articulate the objectives, strategy, and budget of a project in a compelling and persuasive manner to potential clients, funding bodies, or stakeholders.

They work closely with sales, marketing, and project teams to gather information and understand the project’s scope and goals.

They are responsible for researching, writing, and presenting proposals that are clear, concise, and engaging, often including executive summaries, project descriptions, timelines, pricing, and staffing details.

Proposal Writers also ensure that each proposal is customized to suit the needs and language of the intended audience, and meets all the stipulations and guidelines outlined in a Request for Proposal (RFP).

After submission, they may also be involved in the follow-up process, responding to queries, and making necessary revisions.

Their ultimate goal is to help their organization secure new contracts and funding or expand their client base.

 

Proposal Writer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient proposal writer should have skills and qualifications that are in line with your job description, such as:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to clearly articulate project objectives and benefits, and to interact with various stakeholders in the organization.
• Strong research abilities to gather all necessary information to create compelling and persuasive proposals.
• Attention to detail to ensure that the proposal is free of errors and that all necessary information is included.
• Time management and organizational skills to manage multiple proposals at once, and to ensure that all proposals are submitted before the deadline.
• An understanding of the business and its market to effectively communicate why the proposal would be beneficial to the company.
• Problem-solving skills to address any potential issues that may arise during the proposal writing process.
• Experience with proposal software and Microsoft Office Suite to create and edit professional looking proposals.
• Awareness of the bidding process and the ability to create competitive proposals.
• Able to work independently and in a team setting to meet project goals and deadlines.
• Experience in marketing, sales, or a related field can also be beneficial, as it provides a foundation for understanding customer needs and how to sell a product or service.

 

Proposal Writer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Proposal Writers are often required to have at least 1 to 2 years of experience in writing, usually gained through internships or part-time roles in areas such as technical writing, journalism, or communications.

These professionals are expected to be proficient in researching, organizing, and presenting information in a structured and compelling manner.

They can also gain relevant experience in roles such as Content Editor, Technical Writer, or Marketing Coordinator.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience should have a proven track record of writing successful proposals, and may have honed their skills in roles such as Proposal Coordinator or Grant Writer.

They should also possess a deep understanding of project management principles and be able to work closely with sales, marketing, and product teams.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically considered senior Proposal Writers.

They may have experience managing a team of writers, be proficient at strategic planning, and have a strong understanding of business development strategies.

This level of experience prepares them for leadership roles such as Proposal Manager or Director of Proposals.

 

Proposal Writer Education and Training Requirements

Proposal Writers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Marketing or a related field.

They need to have exceptional writing and research skills in order to create compelling and persuasive proposals.

Familiarity with project management principles and basic understanding of financial concepts is also beneficial.

Some positions may require Proposal Writers to have a master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field, especially if they are writing for larger corporations or complex business projects.

In addition to these, knowledge of a second language can be an asset, especially in businesses dealing with international clients.

Certification from a recognized institution, such as the Association of Proposal Management Professionals, can further enhance a Proposal Writer’s credentials.

Some companies may also offer internal training programs to familiarize Proposal Writers with the company’s products, services, and proposal standards.

This can include understanding the company’s value proposition, product offerings, and the competitive landscape.

Regular participation in workshops or courses focusing on improving writing skills, understanding various industries, and staying updated with the latest trends in proposal writing can also be beneficial.

Having a master’s degree and/or certification demonstrates a candidate’s dedication to the profession and their commitment to continuous learning.

 

Proposal Writer Salary Expectations

A Proposal Writer can expect to earn an average salary of $60,487 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may vary based on factors such as experience, industry, geographical location, and the complexity of the proposals they are tasked with creating.

 

Proposal Writer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a proposal writer need?

A proposal writer should have excellent written communication skills, as they will be responsible for creating persuasive proposals that align with the company’s goals and brand.

They should also have strong research skills to understand the needs and preferences of their target audience.

Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work under pressure are also crucial as proposal writers often work on multiple projects with tight deadlines.

 

Do proposal writers need a degree?

While a specific degree may not be a necessity, most employers prefer proposal writers with a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.

Some companies may require industry-specific knowledge or a degree in a related field, especially for technical proposal writers.

 

What should you look for in a proposal writer’s resume?

Look for a history of successful proposals that have resulted in funding or business contracts.

A good proposal writer will showcase their ability to write clearly and persuasively.

You should also look for evidence of strong research skills, the ability to work in a team, and meet deadlines.

Experience with proposal software or project management tools can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good proposal writer?

A good proposal writer is meticulous, detail-oriented, and highly organized.

They possess strong writing skills and have a natural ability to persuade through their writing.

They can grasp complex ideas quickly and present them in an understandable way.

A good proposal writer is also a problem solver, able to anticipate questions or objections that may arise and address them effectively in the proposal.

 

Is it difficult to hire proposal writers?

Hiring a proposal writer can be challenging, as it requires finding someone with a unique set of skills, including strong writing abilities, research skills, and the ability to work under pressure.

It’s also important to find someone who can understand and align with your company’s vision and goals.

However, with a thorough hiring process and clear job description, you can find the right candidate for your organization.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

We’ve opened up the book on what it means to be a proposal writer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about penning proposals.

It’s about shaping the business prospects, one persuasive pitch at a time.

With our go-to proposal writer job description template and true-to-life examples, you’re primed to make a move.

But why halt here?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next stride to precision-crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Just remember:

Every compelling proposal is a part of the grand scheme.

Let’s mold that future. Together.

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