Darkhive, Inc - Proposal Manager

About Darkhive

Established in 2021, Darkhive builds hardware and software solutions designed to seamlessly integrate into the military defense system. We offer tactical uncrewed systems, human-machine interfaces, and software continuous delivery platforms.

Darkhive is a company of U.S. Special Operations veterans, engineers, robotics perception experts, DevSecOps, defense technology executives, and superb support staff—above all, we are a mission-first team. We believe that the U.S. and our allies around the world deserve high-quality, affordable tools that keep them safe when each second counts.

If you are a free-thinking problem solver who is looking for a highly collaborative and innovative environment, apply with Darkhive today!

Proposal Manager
Focus: Project management, writing, compliance, and document production.
Goal: Managing the proposal "machine" to ensure every submission is 100% compliant, persuasive, and on time.

This is a full-time position. This role is remote with the requirement to be located in the Washington D.C. area. Up to 25% travel expected.

Key Responsibilities

• Proposal Lifecycle Lead: Manage the full lifecycle of RFIs, RFPs, RFQs, and White Papers from solicitation release through final submission.
• Project Management: Establish and enforce proposal schedules, compliance matrices, and the "Color Team" review cadence (Pink, Red, Gold).
• Writing & Editing: Write executive summaries and management volumes; edit technical inputs from engineers into a cohesive, "one-voice" narrative.
• Compliance Expert: Ensure all responses strictly adhere to FAR/DFARS requirements and specific solicitation instructions (Section L & M).
• Content Library: Build and maintain a repository of reusable assets, including past performance, resumes, and corporate capability boilerplate.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Act as the "hub" between technical, pricing, contracts, and executive contributors to gather necessary inputs.

Required Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of proposal management experience specifically within the defense/federal sector.
• Expertise in Shipley or similar proposal development methodologies.
• Exceptional technical writing and editing skills with a high "attention to detail" for compliance.
• Proficiency in proposal tools (SharePoint, Adobe, or specialized proposal software).

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SOCOM, Army, Navy, Air Force, OSD, or IC programs
• Familiarity with cost/price volume development and coordination with finance
• Experience building or scaling a proposals function at a startup or growth-stage company
• Existing relationships with DoD program offices or contracting communities
• Active security clearance or clearance eligibility (Secret or above)
• Direct experience in the Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) or robotics industry

Physical and/or Mental Requirements

• Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time.
• Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations.
• Ability to maintain awareness during business hours.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language.
• Learns and memorizes routine tasks.
• Reasonable accommodations will be provided to any person with a disability to be able to perform the essential job functions of this position.
• Darkhive retains the right to change or assign other duties as required for this position.

Selection Process

• Hiring team reviews applications
• 15-minute pre-screen with Darkhive recruiter
• 30-minute phone screen with the hiring manager
• Take home project
• In-person or video interview with hiring team

Benefits Darkhive offers

• Comprehensive medical plans
• 100% employer paid dental and vision insurance premiums
• Automatic 401k employer contribution with vesting
• Paid vacation and personal time off
• 11 Paid holidays
• 5 days of sick leave
• Stock options
• Welcoming and friendly work environment
• Respect of work-life balance

Darkhive is an equal-opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment against any employee or applicant because of race, color, gender (including pregnancy), age, gender identity, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.