Proposal Manager

Divergent is a technology company that has architected, invented, built, and commercialized an end-to-end factory system called the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS) that comprehensively uses machine learning to optimally engineer, additively manufacture, and flexibly assemble complex integrated vehicle structures and subsystems. Purpose As a Proposal Manager, you will sit at the center of Divergent’s most critical growth efforts and own the development and execution of complex, high-value proposals from initial strategy through final submission. You will serve as the connective tissue across program management, business development, engineering, legal, finance, and executive teams, ensuring all contributors are aligned while juggling multiple proposal responses and ensuring they stay on track for successful delivery. You will drive responsibilities strategy, shaping how Divergent’s capabilities are positioned against customer requirements and competitive dynamics. This includes highlighting strengths, identifying risks, and working directly with technical subject matter experts to refine solutions and mitigate gaps. You will own proposal planning, generation, execution, and submission end-to-end, including compliance, review cycles, pricing alignment, and final submission. This role requires exceptional project management and attention to detail, as well as creativity, critical thinking, and bias toward action. The Role Own end-to-end proposal responses, serving as primary author and integrator of cross-functional inputs Develop response structure and compliance, ensuring adherence to solicitation instructions and all applicable federal, prime, and regulatory requirements Translate complex technical inputs into clear, compelling narratives that highlight Divergent’s differentiated capabilities and align to evaluation criteria, while maintaining consistency across volumes Drive response strategy in partnership with business development teams, including win themes, differentiators, and competitive positioning Partner with business development, program management, and executives to drive pricing strategy and price-to-win alignment, increasing proposal competitiveness and PWIN Coordinate and manage complex, cross-functional review cycles, ensuring actionable feedback is incorporated effectively and on schedule Track customer priorities and competitive dynamics to continuously refine bids and positioning Support drafting a range of informational and marketing materials, such as white papers, pitch decks, and more Basic Qualifications Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls 5+ years of experience in proposal management or similar writing- and project management–intensive roles, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality, technically complex, deadline-driven work Able to bring structure to ambiguous, fast-moving environments Bias toward action and proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional efforts with multiple stakeholders under tight deadlines while maintaining high standards for quality and compliance Exceptional writing and communication skills, with the ability to synthesize technical, legal, and business inputs into clear, persuasive narratives Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple concurrent proposals at different stages U.S. citizen eligible and willing to obtain a Secret or Top Secret security clearance Preferred Qualifications Experience operating in fast-paced, innovation-driven environments such as software, advanced manufacturing, or similar Familiarity with standard bid and proposal processes, with the judgment to adapt them for speed and agility in non-traditional contracting environments Demonstrated experience managing large, complex proposals (e.g., multi-volume RFPs, IDIQs, or strategic captures) end-to-end and winning major contracts Strong understanding of federal acquisition processes, procurement cycles, and government contracting frameworks Experience supporting pricing strategy, including collaboration on cost volumes and price-to-win Work Environment This position will be based either in Washington DC (remote) or hybrid/onsite in our Torrance, CA office Compensation At Divergent, our pay range is based on the level of the job. For this role, we will consider candidates at levels S05 – S06 as evaluated through our interview process. S05/Senior level: $115,670 – $159,050 S06/Lead level: $133,580 – $183,680 Pay Range $115,670—$183,680 USD What We Offer: Holistic Compensation Package: Enjoy a world-class compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities, ensuring you’re truly valued for your contributions. Wellness and Time Off: Embrace a healthy lifestyle with paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown to recharge. We support growing families with paid parental leave, recognizing the importance of bonding time. Comprehensive Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health and wellness benefits, offering both HMO and Premium PPO options. Additionally, benefit from company-sponsored life insurance and short and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind. Investment in Growth: We’re committed to your professional development. Take advantage of reimbursement opportunities for learning and development initiatives, empowering you to continuously expand your skill set and reach peak performance. Collaborative and High-Performing Environment: Join our collaborative, dynamic, and high-performing team within a fast-paced, mission-driven company. Together, we’re disrupting the traditional manufacturing industry, fostering innovation, and integrating people and technology to reduce our footprint. Equal Employment Opportunity Divergent is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected characteristic. Divergent provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act. In order to adjust to changes in our business, it may become necessary to add, remove or modify certain duties and responsibilities, or to reassign you to another job position. From time to time you may be asked to work on special projects or to assist with other work. Your cooperation and assistance in performing such additional work is expected. #J-18808-Ljbffr