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Rocket Lab is seeking a Senior Proposal Manager based in Tucson, AZ to lead the development and execution of compelling, compliant business proposals for the Space Systems Business Development team, with a focus on satellite opportunities. This role is central to winning new business with US and international customers in the aerospace and defense sector.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and executing comprehensive proposal plans, including RFP analysis, outline creation, and compliance matrix development
- Collaborating with Business Development leadership to craft winning strategies and compelling messaging
- Writing and managing high-quality, compliant proposals that clearly address RFP requirements
- Taking ownership of specific proposal volumes, ensuring quality, compliance, and strategic alignment
- Leading proposal kick-off meetings and facilitating regular check-ins with contributors to maintain timelines
- Coordinating with cross-functional internal teams (engineering, finance, legal) to gather and refine proposal content
- Creating and managing proposal templates, reusable content, and visual elements (charts, tables, infographics)
- Conducting quality assurance reviews for grammar, consistency, and formatting
- Overseeing final production and submission to ensure on-time delivery and compliance with customer requirements
- Documenting lessons learned and recommending process improvements
- Supporting travel as needed (~10%)
The role requires working in production areas with occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes, and involves prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and computer work.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in technical, management, or business discipline
- 5+ years of proposal management experience
- Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
- Demonstrated success leading proposals with values greater than $100 million
- Technical writing expertise with proven ability to translate complex technical information into clear, concise, persuasive language for different audiences
- Project management experience managing multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and ensuring high-quality deliverables
- Experience leading cross-functional teams to achieve proposal objectives
Nice-to-have qualifications:
- Active U.S. security clearance
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
- Experience with Salesforce and SharePoint
- Exceptional attention to detail and ability to prioritize multiple tasks
- Background in organizational effectiveness and operations
- Experience with proposal frameworks and methodologies (Shipley, APMP)
- Familiarity with ITAR and Export Administration Regulations (EAR)
- Aerospace or defense industry experience with understanding of competitive landscape, customer base, and technology trends
- Ability to present proposal concepts and strategies to internal stakeholders
- Proven relationship-building skills with engineers, leadership, and cross-functional teams
Note: This position requires U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or eligible authorization status due to ITAR regulations governing space technology exports.
