Senior Proposal Manager

Adams Communication & Engineering Technology (ACET), Incorporated is a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) system engineering and information technology firm, headquartered in Lexington, KY. Incorporated in 1999, we support mission critical Information Technology (IT) business needs for clients within the intelligence community (IC), Department of Defense (DOD), Veteran Administration (VA) and for select commercial clients. ACET, Inc.'s technical, programmatic, and analytical professionals are experts in commercial technology, customized solutions, and proprietary government systems.

ACET is seeking a highly skilled Senior Proposal Manager who will be responsible for leading the development, coordination, and submission of high-quality, compliant, and competitive proposals in response to Federal, State, and commercial solicitations. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills who can manage multiple concurrent proposals in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Department of Defense (DoD) procurement processes, and the Shipley proposal lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full proposal lifecycle, from capture and pre-RFP planning through submission and post-submission support.
• Develop and manage proposal schedules, outlines, compliance matrices, and review plans to ensure all deadlines are met.
• Coordinate input from technical, management, pricing, and contracts teams to ensure all sections align with the overall win strategy.
• Facilitate color team reviews (Pink, Red, Gold, Green) and incorporate feedback to strengthen the proposal's quality and compliance.
• Ensure compliance with RFP/RFQ/RFI requirements, proposal instructions, evaluation criteria, and internal standards.
• Write and edit proposal sections, executive summaries, and management/technical narratives as needed.
• Collaborate with pricing and contracts teams to align cost volumes with the technical approach and value proposition.
• Manage proposal production and submission, ensuring quality, consistency, and accuracy of all deliverables.
• Support continuous improvement by developing templates, best practices, and lessons learned for future proposals.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Communications, English, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 7–10 years of experience in proposal management, preferably within the federalcontracting or defense sector.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex proposals simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of FAR/DFARS, DoD, and federal acquisition processes.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Acrobat, SharePoint, and Teams.
• Experience with Shipley or similar proposal methodologies.

Preferred:

• APMP certification (Foundation, Practitioner, or Professional).
• Experience with IDIQ task order management and rapid-response proposals.
• Background in technical services, logistics, or aviation support contracting.

Key Attributes:

• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strategic thinker with a focus on win themes, compliance, and customer alignment.
• Collaborative and solutions-oriented with a proactive leadership style.

Why Join ACET

At ACET, you'll be part of a mission-driven team supporting critical defense and federal operations. We offer a collaborative environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the ability to make a measurable impact through your leadership in proposal development.

What We Offer:

• At ACET, we believe that our employees are our most valuable asset. We are committed to providing a comprehensive Total Rewards program that recognizes and supports the diverse needs of our workforce. Our offerings are designed to attract, motivate, and retain top talent while fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and well-being.
• Employee benefits include the following:
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Life insurance, AD&D, and Short- and Long-Term Disability
• 401(k) Program
• Wellness programs
• Paid Time Off
• 11 Paid Holidays
• Employee Referral Program
• Employee Assistance Program

Please note that all compensation, benefits, and policies are subject to change at the company's discretion. While we make every effort to provide advance notice of changes, adjustments may occur based on business needs, economic conditions, and industry standards.

**All candidates must be a U.S. Citizen to apply**

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position.

Drug Free Workplace: ACET is a Drug Free Workplace where post-free applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria are met as outlined in our policies.

ACET is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.