Proposal Manager

Divergent is a technology company that has architected, invented, built, and commercialized an end-to-end factory system called the Divergent Adaptive Production System (DAPS) that comprehensively uses machine learning to optimally engineer, additively manufacture, and flexibly assemble complex integrated vehicle structures and subsystems. Products created using DAPS are superior in performance, lower in cost, rapidly customizable to meet mission and customer-specific requirements, faster to market, and scalable on demand to high volume production. Divergent is a qualified Tier 1 supplier to global automotive OEMs, and Divergent is now expanding to support mission critical needs in the Aerospace and Defense sector. Join us to be a part of this transformative journey, where your impact will shape the future of technology and production. Purpose As a Proposal Manager, you will sit at the center of  Divergent’s  most critical growth efforts  and own  the development and execution of complex, high-value proposals from  initial  strategy through final submission. You will serve as the connective tissue across   program management,  business development, engineering,  legal, finance, and  executive teams , ensuring all contributors are aligned  while juggling multiple proposal responses and ensuring they stay on track for successful delivery.   You will drive response strategy, shaping how Divergent’s capabilities are positioned against customer requirements and competitive dynamics. This includes highlighting strengths, identifying risks, and working directly with technical subject matter experts to refine solutions and mitigate gaps. You will own proposal planning, generation, execution, and submission end-to-end, including compliance, review cycles, pricing alignment, and final submission.   This role requires exceptional project management and attention to detail, as well as creativity, critical thinking, and bias towards action.    The Role Own end-to-end proposal responses, serving as primary author and integrator of cross-functional inputs Develop response structure and compliance, ensuring adherence to solicitation instructions and all applicable federal, prime, and regulatory requirements Translate complex technical inputs into clear, compelling narratives that highlight Divergent’s differentiated capabilities and align to evaluation criteria, while maintaining consistency across volumes Drive response strategy in partnership with business development teams, including win themes, differentiators, and competitive positioning Partner with business development, program management, and executives to drive pricing strategy and price-to-win alignment, increasing proposal competitiveness and PWIN. Coordinate and manage complex, cross-functional review cycles, ensuring actionable feedback is incorporated effectively and on schedule Track customer priorities and competitive dynamics to continuously refine bids and positioning Support drafting a range of informational and marketing materials, such as white papers, pitch decks, and more. Basic Qualifications Ability to lawfully access information and technology that is subject to US export controls  5+ years of experience in proposal management or similar writing- and project management–intensive roles, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality, technically complex, deadline-driven work Able to bring structure to ambiguous, fast-moving environments Bias towards action and proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional efforts with multiple stakeholders under tight deadlines while maintaining high standards for quality and compliance Exceptional writing and communication skills, with the ability to synthesize technical, legal, and business inputs into clear, persuasive narratives Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple concurrent proposals at different stages U.S. citizen eligible and willing to obtain a Secret or Top Secret security clearance Preferred Qualifications Experience operating in fast-paced, innovation-driven environments such as software, advanced manufacturing, or similar Familiarity with standard bid and proposal processes, with the judgment to adapt them for speed and agility in non-traditional contracting environments Demonstrated experience managing large, complex proposals (e.g., multi-volume RFPs, IDIQs, or strategic captures) end-to-end and winning major contracts Strong understanding of federal acquisition processes, procurement cycles, and government contracting frameworks Experience supporting pricing strategy, including collaboration on cost volumes and price-to-win Work Environment This position will be based either in Washington DC (remote) or hybrid/onsite in our Torrance, CA office Compensation At Divergent, our pay range is based on the level of the job. For this role, we will consider candidates at levels S05 - S06 as evaluated through our interview process.  S05/Senior level: $115,670 - $159,050 S06/Lead level: $133,580 - $183,680 Pay Range $115,670 — $183,680 USD What We Offer: Holistic Compensation Package: Enjoy a world-class compensation package that includes a competitive salary, equity plan, and discretionary results-based incentive bonus opportunities, ensuring you're truly valued for your contributions. Wellness and Time Off: Embrace a healthy lifestyle with paid vacation, sick time, and company holidays, including a year-end shutdown to recharge. We support growing families with paid parental leave, recognizing the importance of bonding time. Comprehensive Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health and wellness benefits, offering both HMO and Premium PPO options. Additionally, benefit from company-sponsored life insurance and short and long-term disability coverage for peace of mind. Investment in Growth: We're committed to your professional de