Proposal Specialist

Proposal Specialist

Join Southland's team of Proposal Specialists and play a key role in supporting our business development efforts. In this role, you will lead the development of proposals, qualifications packages, and interview materials for engineering and construction opportunities. Working closely with technical staff, business development leaders, and marketing team members, you will help create clear and compelling pursuit materials that showcase Southland's expertise and value to our clients. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys collaborating across teams, managing a variety of projects, and developing high-quality, engaging content in a fast-paced environment.

Position Details

• Develop and produce professional proposals in response to Requests for Proposals and Requests for Qualifications (RFP/RFQ) for engineering and construction opportunities using Adobe InDesign.
• Review solicitation documents to identify requirements, evaluation criteria, and submission instructions to ensure compliant proposals.
• Coordinate business development, operations, and technical teams to gather information and develop clear, client-focused messaging.
• Plan and manage proposal schedules, outlines, and content assignments to ensure milestones are met.
• Assist in writing, editing, and organizing proposal narratives to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with company messaging and brand standards.
• Collaborate with marketing and graphic design resources to develop layouts and visuals that support proposal content.
• Manage the final review and production process to ensure proposals are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
• Assist in preparation for client interviews and presentations by developing slide content, printed materials, and supporting practice sessions.
• Develop and maintain proposal resources such as resumes, project descriptions, and standard content to support pursuits. Assist with various marketing and business development activities as needed.
• Collaborate closely with a national team of proposal specialists to support continued growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Marketing, Communications, Graphic Design, or Business Administration required, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience.
• Proficiency in writing, editing, and researching to prepare documents, presentations, and marketing materials, including proposals.
• Proficiency in using Adobe InDesign to develop professional proposal and marketing materials.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Teams, and SharePoint.
• Experience with Unanet and Asana is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to develop clear, persuasive content.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail when managing complex documents and deadlines.
• Ability to prioritize multiple assignments and manage competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective collaboration skills with the ability to work across marketing, business development, and technical teams.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills with a proactive, solution-focused approach.
• Some travel required.
• AEC industry experience preferred but not required.

Benefits

As a 100% employee-owned company, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for you and your family:

• 401(k) plan with 50% company match (no cap) and immediate 100% vesting
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% paid for employee)
• Annual bonus program based upon performance, achievement, and company profitability
• Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance
• Disability income protection insurance
• Pre-tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care)
• Paid parental leave
• Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time
• Training/professional development opportunities and company-paid memberships for professional associations and licenses
• Wellness benefits

About Southland Industries

As one of the nation's largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. If you want to join a fast-paced environment where you're engaged, challenged, and valued, apply now to join our dynamic team.

Pay: Final pay is determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data. For Virginia this ranges from $70,000.00 - $82,000.00 plus annual incentive, benefits, and retirement program as outlined above.

Contingent Employment: All employment offers are contingent upon successful drug tests, background checks, and professional reference checks. Roles that include driving as an essential job duty will be required to have a successful Motor Vehicle Record check (MVR). We are not able to offer sponsorship of employment at this time.