Proposal Specialist (R3129)

About Shield AI

Founded in 2015, Shield AI is a venture-backed defense technology company focused on protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its flagship autonomy software, Hivemind, powers aircraft, drones, and other platforms, enabling complex missions with high reliability in contested environments. With offices in San Diego, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and internationally, Shield AI’s products actively support U.S. and allied operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn,Twitter, and Instagram.

The Business Development (BD) Operations team is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Proposal Specialist with a background in defense contracting to join our team. The Proposal Specialist will be responsible for the development and submission of high-quality proposals documents to government agencies, particularly the Department of Defense (DoD). The successful candidate will have a keen understanding of the defense contracting landscape, possess excellent writing and communication skills, and be adept at collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet proposal deadlines. 

What you'll do:

• The Proposal Specialist, under the guidance of the Lead Proposal Specialist, will be accountable for the following duties:




• Developing and editing proposal content: Writing, editing, and refining proposal narratives, ensuring clarity, coherence, and compliance with RFP requirements.
• Proposal planning and administration: Supporting the planning, scheduling, and coordination of proposal efforts, including managing timelines, resources, and documentation.
• Compliance management: Ensuring proposals adhere to RFP specifications, government regulations, and company standards.
• Collaboration with stakeholders: Engaging with proposal manager, subject matter experts, technical teams, and other internal and external stakeholders to gather necessary information and ensure proposal accuracy and completeness.
• Proposal coordination: Coordinating cross-functionally between departments to gather necessary inputs, review proposal drafts, and finalize submissions.
• Documentation and reporting: Documenting proposal findings, communicating results to management or proposal teams, and preparing technical presentations as required.
• Training and support: Providing training and support to departmental staff on proposal development processes, procedures, and best practices.
• Research and promotional material: Developing research and promotional content, including marketing brochures and displays, to showcase the organization's projects and technical capabilities.
• Confidentiality: Maintaining strict confidentiality of sensitive information and ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Technical Writing, Business Administration/Management, or related discipline.
• 2-5 years of Federal contracting experience preferred, with a focus on defense contracting. Alternatively, 10+ years of technical writing and editing experience, with familiarity in federal government requirements, will be considered.
• Familiarity with FAR-15 and DFARS regulations, involving expertise in federal acquisition processes and defense contracting compliance.
• Strong technical editor with the ability to author technical content for requests for information, abstracts, quad charts, statements of work, and technical proposal volumes.
• Must demonstrate a basic technical understanding of military or commercial systems (e.g., UASs, aviation, software) and technical writing/editing practices and standards.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively – both verbally and in writing.
• Outstanding record of academic and professional achievement.
• Exceptional analytical and quantitative problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to work effectively with people at all levels of the organization.
• Proven track record of diligence, trustworthiness, high standards, kindness, and commitment to Shield AI's mission and core values.

Preferred qualifications:

• Preference given to candidate with an active Secret Security Clearance (minimum) with the ability to obtain a higher clearance.
• Strong technical background especially with Medium and Large Segment (Group 3-5) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UASs).
• Familiarity with Foreign Military Sale/Funded (FMS/F) cases and relevant proposal submission experience.
• Demonstrated deep understanding of military operations and acquisition processes, facilitating strong customer relations.
• Demonstrated understanding of specific DoD operational scenarios and systems.

Total package details for U.S. based positions:

- Regular employee positions: Salary within range listed above + Bonus + Benefits + Equity

- Temporary employee positions: Hourly within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days

of employment)

- Interns/Military Fellows/Part-time not eligible for bonus, benefits or equity

Total package details for International positions which are roles based outside of the United States (where applicable):

- International premium, hardship differential, cost of living differential, living quarters allowance, foreign service transfer

allowance, equity, international benefits, visa assistance, and relocation assistance.

Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check.

Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.