Job Summary:
Aptive is seeking a Senior Proposal Writer/Editor to collaborate with teammates and subject matter experts to develop compliant and compelling proposal content in response to federal solicitations. The ideal candidate is comfortable communicating with a wide range of stakeholders; completes assignments with a high degree of attention to detail; and displays personal initiative in their day-to-day work.
Primary Responsibilities:
Proposal Writing
- Researches and writes content for proposals, to include the executive summary, technical solution, management approach, personnel résumés, or past performance volume
- Analyzes the requirements within a request for proposal (RFP), statement of work (SOW), or performance work statement (PWS); tailors existing content or develops new content to align with the requirements
- Writes content that is consistent in tone and voice with other authors
- Prepares content for each stage of the proposal review lifecycle (e.g., Pink Team, Red Team, Gold Team)
Proposal Editing
- Displays a strong understanding of editorial best practices and a familiarity with common industry style guides (e.g., Associated Press Stylebook, Chicago Manual of Style, Government Publishing Office Style Manual)
- Edits proposal documentation with an emphasis on the consistent use of grammar, punctuation, and syntax
- Performs a “one voice” edit on proposal content contributed by other writers and subject matter experts
- Thoroughly proofreads all content during final production (e.g., White Glove)
Desktop Publishing
- Uses advanced formatting skills to prepare proposal documents within MS Word
- Applies styles based on Aptive templates and inserts figures, tables, charts, and graphics as appropriate
Collaboration with Teammates
- Proactively collaborates and communicates with proposal resources, including the Proposal Manager, subject matter experts, fellow writers/editors, and Aptive leadership
- As directed, uses established checklists to conduct quality reviews on the work products of teammates
Support of Special Projects
- As directed, supports strategic projects and priorities, including the development of content for the Aptive Past Performance Library and development of best-in-class proposal content
- Assists with the maintenance of the Aptive Style Guide
Minimum Qualifications:
- Five or more years of experience working as a proposal writer and/or editor, with demonstrated experience responding to federal solicitations
- Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in English, Journalism, History, or Political Science; related fields are acceptable where the candidate shows a strong background in proposal writing or editing
- Thorough understanding of how to edit a response in alignment with industry style guides
- Demonstrated experience analyzing and extracting requirements from federal solicitations
- Superior oral and written communication skills, as well as highly refined editing and proofreading capabilities
- Detail-oriented and deadline-driven work ethic, with an emphasis on delivering high-quality content
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a member of a larger proposal team
Candidates are welcome to submit writing samples. Select candidates will be asked to complete a brief writing and editing challenge.
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience should include writing proposal volumes; researching and editing compliant proposal content; and leading/participating in color reviews.
- Demonstrated experience using established industry best practices, processes and systems.
- Excellent research skills and the ability to effectively gather information needed from files, team members and senior staff members.
- Excellent project management skills and financial acumen as related to business and operational strategy
- Expertise in the company's differentiated solutions offerings; ability to work across service areas.
- Strong ability to manage multiple activities and priorities, with effective judgment and decision-making skills.
- Adept at translating technical and scientific information into client-friendly proposals.
- Critical and strategic thinking skills.
- General knowledge of federal government contract types (IDIQ, FFP, T&M, CPFF). Basic understanding of federal government procurement policies and practices.
About Aptive:
Aptive is a modern federal consulting firm focused on human experience, digital services, and business transformation. We harness creativity, technology, and culture to connect people and systems to impact the world. We’re advisors, strategists, and engineers focused on people, above all else.
We believe in generating success collaboratively, leaving client organizations stronger after every engagement and building trust for the next big challenge. Our work inspires people, fuels change and makes an impact. Join our team to be part of positive change in your community and our nation.
EEO Statement:
Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.
Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.
