Proposal Specialist

Job Description

Join Terracon and shape the proposals that win work and move communities forward. If you are a creative storyteller who loves turning complex ideas into polished, persuasive proposals, this role is your next big opportunity. At Terracon, you will blend graphic design, writing, and strategic thinking to create standout submissions that help our teams secure meaningful projects across the AEC industry. You will collaborate with experts, bring fresh visual concepts to life, and contribute to work that has a real impact on clients and communities. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where every project is a chance to innovate, Terracon is the place for you.

The primary role of the Proposal Specialist is to serve as a skilled, dedicated resource for the marketing team, specializing in graphic design, content formatting, copywriting, and data visualization to support Terracon's responses to client Requests for Proposals (RFP) and Requests for Information (RFI). This role combines creative design and compelling written communication to deliver captivating proposals that showcase Terracon's solutions while maintaining consistency with Terracon's overall brand voice and standards.

Responsibilities

• Proposal Development and Content Creation
• Break down client RFP requirements into well-organized, visually engaging, and clearly written proposal components.
• Develop covers, layouts, graphics (maps, charts, icons, infographics), and narrative content that highlight Terracon's strengths.
• Write and refine content such as executive summaries, solution descriptions, and project narratives that align with client needs and Terracon's branding.
• Edit and proofread all proposal materials for grammar, clarity, style, and consistency.
• Translate technical information from subject matter experts into accessible, persuasive language.
• Design and Visual Communication
• Develop quality graphical elements including covers, headers, footers, and layout templates that reflect Terracon's brand.
• Conceptualize and produce polished, cohesive graphics for use across proposal submissions.
• Participate in quality reviews to confirm the use of current visuals and creative assets.
• Support leaders by preparing visual formats and design concepts that communicate ideas effectively.
• Collaboration and Marketing Support
• Participate in kickoff, status, and review meetings for active pursuits.
• Provide writing and design support for internal presentations and marketing initiatives alongside the marketing manager, senior leaders, and client development team.
• Assist internal customers with non-proposal design and communication projects when needed.
• Stay informed on industry trends by engaging with Terracon's available learning resources.
• Handle confidential information with professionalism.
• Operational and Administrative Support
• Review and interpret RFQs/RFPs to guide proposal strategy and content direction.
• Analyze requirements and develop compliant, responsive proposal materials.
• Gather and organize information needed for proposals and presentations.
• Write, edit, and maintain templates, resumes, project descriptions, and boilerplate content.
• Manage files and records related to client development materials, updating resumes and project data annually.
• Generate marketing reports and support proposal close-out activities.
• Maintain quality across all proposal and marketing deliverables.
• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
• Strong knowledge of the proposal process within the AEC industry.
• Hands-on experience developing proposal frameworks, templates, and design concepts.
• Advanced design skills with the ability to create and refine high-end graphics.
• Ability to work quickly and accurately across multiple projects with shifting timelines.
• Proactive mindset with the ability to suggest creative solutions and elevate existing content.
• Skilled at working independently and collaboratively with teams across multiple offices.
• Strong time management, organization, and attention to detail.
• Experience editing and improving technical narratives.

Qualifications

• Required Education and Experience
• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, graphic design, business, or related field and 2 years of marketing and communications experience. Or, in lieu of a degree, 6 years of related experience.
• Experience with marketing or communication within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint).
• Strong writing, editing, and oral communication skills.
• Familiarity with professional social media platforms (e.g., LinkedIn).
• Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) certification.
• Success Traits
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and handle fast-paced workloads.
• Strong collaboration skills with a positive, solutions-oriented approach.
• Ownership mentality with a focus on elevating proposal quality and marketing practices.
• Experience working both independently and with remote teams across regions.
• Strong facilitation skills for group discussions, proposal strategy sessions, and content development.
• High attention to detail, especially in proofreading and formatting.

This position is on site in either Harrisburg, PA or Blue Bell, PA

About Us

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.