Proposal Writer

About Lakeshore Learning Materials

Lakeshore Learning Materials has been innovating educational products and exceptional guest experiences for teachers, parents, and children since 1954. Expanding into a global presence, the company operates an extensive e-commerce platform, multiple catalogs, over 50 store locations, a nationwide sales team, and international offices supporting a leading supply chain. Currently, the company is focused on enhancing its infrastructure for scalability, adopting data-driven decisions, leveraging technology for process improvements, and fostering a diverse, inquisitive workforce driven by passion and curiosity.

Role Overview

The Proposal Writer will be instrumental in crafting compelling, tailored proposals that secure contracts and propel company growth. This position involves developing, editing, and refining responses for complex bids by coordinating with multiple stakeholders and managing tight deadlines. The role demands exceptional writing expertise, a strong eye for detail, and the ability to collaborate seamlessly across teams while working standard Pacific Time hours.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret bid requirements to create customized proposal responses aligned with client expectations and organizational strengths.
• Collaborate across sales, subject matter experts, and creative teams to gather input and produce winning proposal content.
• Facilitate discovery sessions to author new material and enhance existing content reflecting targeted sales strategies.
• Develop and revise content adhering to high writing standards to ensure proposals are clear, persuasive, and compliant.
• Edit final proposal documents for accuracy in spelling, grammar, style, format, voice consistency, and clarity.
• Integrate information from various sources to produce comprehensive and cohesive bid responses.
• Convey complex information logically for clear understanding by diverse audiences.
• Manage multiple proposals simultaneously, handling kickoffs, deadlines, and stakeholder communication.
• Partner with design teams to incorporate graphics and visuals that improve proposal presentation and efficiency.
• Maintain and update proposal templates and content libraries to support ongoing bid efforts.
• Adjust writing style to effectively engage intended audiences.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.
• At least 2 years’ experience in proposal writing, capture management, or related roles.
• Minimum 2 years supporting or coordinating complex projects.
• Strong understanding of proposal development processes and strategic approaches.
• Outstanding writing, editing, and analytical skills with the ability to produce structured, persuasive narratives.
• Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Comfortable working independently and in teams with creativity and problem-solving ability.
• Proficient with digital research methods and research tools.
• Ability to consistently work Pacific Time hours and flexibility for occasional off-hours as needed.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams), Adobe Acrobat Pro, TechSmith Snagit, and willingness to learn new technologies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree preferred.
• 4 years of experience in proposal writing or similar functions.
• 4 years supporting or coordinating complex projects.

Additional Information and Benefits

Typically, for new employees residing outside Los Angeles and Orange Counties, the hourly pay ranges from $29.57 to $39.91, reflecting experience and skills. Annual base salary will consider individual qualifications and location.

• Eligibility for performance bonuses.
• Paid parental leave to support family bonding and work-life balance.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options, including EPO, PPO, and HSA plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Flexible benefits allowing personalized selection.
• On-site preschool and gym facilities.
• Generous employee discounts.
• Causal dress code culture.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Lakeshore is committed to an inclusive and diverse workplace where selection is based solely on qualifications and merit regardless of protected characteristics. They participate in E-Verify for employment eligibility verification.