Proposal Specialist

Position:

Proposal Specialist Location:

Schaumburg, IL Years of Experience:

3-5 years

About RTM:

RTM Engineering Consultants is an MEP, Civil and Structural engineering firm that goes beyond the conventional consulting role. We forge deep partnerships with our clients by aligning with the goals, processes and people at each organization. By integrating our expertise, we offer a comprehensive suite of national resources combined with localized relationships, delivering exceptional value to our clients. At RTM Engineering Consultants, we prioritize the well-being and growth of our team members. Our commitment to professional development is evident through hands-on mentoring, opportunities for advancement, and access to RTM University. With integrated multi-disciplinary studios, you'll collaborate with experts of all levels and various disciplines. We continuously foster a positive team culture through outings that strengthen the bonds of our teams and at RTM, giving and taking are fundamental values. We believe in giving our best, contributing to others, and embracing diversity and equality for progress. Join our dynamic and inclusive team where your well-being, growth, and contributions are valued.

Our Team:

At RTM, we hold a profound appreciation for our workforce. We firmly believe that YOU, our team members, are our most valuable asset and are instrumental in defining our organization. Our dedication lies in delivering experiences that foster your growth and success, whether you are just embarking on your career path or have attained seasoned expertise. Guided by our CORE values of Collaborative Communication, Overall Unity, Respect and Trust, and Excellence in Engineering, we forge a unified team that consistently pursues professional achievement in all endeavors we undertake. RTM is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote employee health, wellness, and financial security. Our offerings include medical, dental, and vision plans, employee assistance program, disability coverage, life insurance, 401(k) and profit sharing, flexible work schedule, paid time off and training and development courses.

Benefits of Joining RTM:

Responsible Time Off (RTO) & Paid Holidays Flexible Scheduling 401K with Matching Health, Dental, Vision, & Life Insurance Hands-on Mentoring & Learning Professional Advancement Opportunities Integrated Multi-disciplinary Studios.

Role Overview:

The Proposal Specialist leads the development of high-quality, compliant, and persuasive proposals in response to Requests for Proposals (RFP), Requests for Qualifications (RFQ), and other solicitations. This role is responsible for managing proposal strategy, messaging, and production for assigned pursuits, ensuring alignment with client requirements, brand standards, and overall win strategy. The Proposal Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for proposal development efforts and collaborates closely with technical staff, project managers, leadership, and marketing to deliver competitive submissions that clearly differentiate the firm. This position requires advanced proposal management skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead complex pursuits from kickoff through submission.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Development & Client Engagement Participate actively in business development and marketing meetings; establish, track, and meet individual and team goals. Build and maintain professional relationships with client proposal coordinators, architects, contractors, and industry partners. Communicate directly and effectively with clients as needed for proposal submissions. Apply a comprehensive understanding of RTM's services, market sectors, project experience, and personnel to develop strategic, differentiated proposal content aligned with client priorities and win strategies. Monitor and track upcoming RFP's, RFQ's, and other pursuit opportunities from assigned procurement sites; evaluate solicitations to identify strategic positioning opportunities. Collaborate with internal teams to improve workflows, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. Proposal & Qualification Development Lead end-to-end proposal development for assigned pursuits, from kickoff through submission. Facilitate kickoff meetings, strategy sessions, and review meetings. Coordinate with internal contributors and external sub-consultants for any required technical narratives, fees, or financial details as outlined in RFP requirements. Write, edit, and tailor proposal content including executive summaries, technical narratives, management approaches, and past performance sections. Proofread and edit proposal content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency; translate technical content into client-focused messaging when appropriate. Ensure consistency in voice, tone, and branding across all proposal sections. Conduct market, competitor, and content research to support strategic marketing initiatives. Track proposal schedules and manage multiple pursuits under tight deadlines. Coordination of marketing collateral and promotional item needs for conferences, seminars, career fairs, and other internal and external company events. Provide backup support to other marketing team members and perform additional duties as assigned. Marketing Systems & Data Management Maintain familiarity with RTM's marketing resource library and direct team members to appropriate materials as needed. Maintain and update marketing collateral using internal project management systems. Coordinate with graphic designers on proposal layout, infographics, and visual enhancements. Assist in maintaining RTM's CRM including data entry and periodic cleanup. Track win/loss data and support debrief documentation. Identify process improvements to increase proposal efficiency and quality.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, business, or a related field. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to think strategically. 3-5 years of experience in the AEC industry within a marketing or proposal role, experience using SF330 forms is a plus. Strong organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrate initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign and Illustrator. Experience in CRM platforms. Experience or familiarity working within a hybrid/virtual team.

NOTE:

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. The employee may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.

Estimated Starting Salary Range :

$70,000.00 - $85,000.00

Equal Employment Opportunity:

It is the policy of RTM Engineering Consultants to practice a program of equal employment opportunity, and advancement opportunities are made available to all employees on the basis of individual qualifications without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, disability, age or gender. Must be authorized to work in the United States. RTM does not currently accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or recruiters.