Hensel Phelps
About Hensel Phelps
Founded in 1937, Hensel Phelps specializes in building development, construction and facility services in markets ranging from aviation to government, commercial, transportation, critical facilities, healthcare and transportation. Ranked #1 in aviation and #6 overall general contractor in 2024 by BD+C, Hensel Phelps is one of the largest employee-owned general contractors in the country. Driven to deliver EXCELLENCE in all we do and supported by our core values of Ownership, Integrity, Builder, Diversity and Community, Hensel Phelps brings our clients\' visions to life with a comprehensive approach that begins with innovative planning and extends throughout the life of the property. Proposal Lead Reports to: Project Development Director The Proposal Lead plays a critical role in managing high-quality, strategic proposals from start to finish that support new business acquisition and client relationship growth. This position leads the development of all proposals including the mid- to large-scale RFQs and RFPs, as well as interviews—coordinating pursuit strategy, managing deadlines, and shaping messaging that aligns with client drivers. With a strong understanding of delivery methods, compliance, and win strategy development, the Proposal Lead collaborates across departments to elevate proposal content, storytelling, and presentation outcomes. This role also contributes to broader marketing and communications efforts, including brand development, internal campaigns, and enterprise initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Planning & Strategy
Lead capture planning conversations, including pre-RFP research, team alignment, and messaging strategy.
Support project pursuit staffing and planning through collaboration with business development and regional leadership.
Participate in marketing planning efforts to align pursuit messaging with broader business goals.
Procurement & Proposal Support
Manage proposal responses from initial strategy session through delivery—driving schedule, task delegation, and compliance with the proposal requirements.
Lead RFQ/RFP kickoff and reviews, ensuring clear win themes, alignment with client hot buttons, and consistent messaging throughout the submittal.
Write and refine approach narratives, schedules, and staffing justifications to align with client evaluation criteria.
Create site logistics illustrations, graphics, and project-specific visuals in collaboration with design/marketing staff.
Ensure proposal and presentation materials adhere to compliance, formatting, and brand standards.
Lead presentation planning and execution, including assistance in coaching presenters, arranging AV, developing visuals, and coordinating rehearsals and schedule.
Content Development
Develop compelling project narratives, case studies, and team bios that reflect strategic positioning.
Create win themes and guide narrative alignment across all proposal and interview materials.
Interview technical staff and partners to extract differentiators and develop custom responses.
Oversee award submittals and collaborate on storytelling for both pursuit and marketing efforts.
Utilize AI tools (e.g., CoPilot, Joist) to enhance content development and support efficiency.
Brand & Identity Stewardship
Ensure proposals and marketing collateral are on-brand and represent enterprise identity consistently.
Partner with enterprise marketing teams to align regional storytelling with national positioning.
Represent the firm professionally through external outreach, proposal delivery, and industry engagement.
Employee Engagement
Contribute to enterprise campaigns and internal storytelling efforts that highlight regional and team success.
Support employee engagement events and internal comms efforts that tie pursuit wins to team and cultural milestones.
Marketing & Communications – External
Collaborate with marketing and communications team to develop collateral, event visuals, and project milestone content that supports prepositioning and pursuit visibility.
Assist in translating proposal content into public-facing narratives (e.g., social posts, website content, awards).
Data Collection & Management
Lead jobsite data collection and internal alignment to maintain accurate, timely data in DASH, Bynder, and other tools.
Collect recommendation letters, subcontractor/partner inputs, and community engagement data to support pursuit narratives.
Develop and maintain proposal closeout procedures and content reuse systems for future submittals.
Regional Events
Support the development of proposal-related events and presentations including interview prep sessions, internal win debriefs, and BD engagement forums.
Provide messaging, graphics, and coaching support for client-facing events, panels, and community outreach presentations.
Collaborate with the marketing team on event coordination, helping develop materials and logistics for regional trade shows, recruiting events, and internal celebrations.
Position Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in marketing or relevant field of study
4-5 years of architecture, engineering, and construction experience and/or a combination of education and experience
1+ years of management experience
3+ years’ experience with Client Relationship Management software
Highly organized and effective task management skills
Demonstrated proficiency and competency in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop) with strong graphic design and layout capabilities
Microsoft Office Suite Competency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
Demonstrated strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills
Strong accuracy and attention to detail
Ability to effectively communicate with senior management, supervisors, peers, and clients
Ability to manage multiple projects/deadlines and accommodate shifting priorities
Experience conducting research and applying analytical skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Thorough understanding of construction industry terminology and procedures
Essential Skills
Planning:
Skilled in developing pursuit plans, win strategies, and client-specific messaging across large, complex submittals.
Proposal Leadership:
Confident in managing the end-to-end proposal lifecycle—organizing inputs, driving schedules, and coaching contributors.
Content Development:
Strong writer and editor with a deep understanding of client hot buttons, delivery methods, and evaluation criteria.
Collaboration:
Builds trust across teams, partnering effectively with technical staff, executives, marketing peers, and external partners.
Compliance & Attention to Detail:
Expert in interpreting solicitation documents and ensuring all requirements are met with clarity and consistency.
Physical Work Classification & Demands
Light Work. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects
The individual in this position will periodically walk, kneel, sit, crouch, reach, stoop, read/see, speak, push, pull, lift, stand, and finger/type. The frequency of each action varies by workflow and office activity
Walking - The person in this position needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, boxes, cabinets, etc.
Constantly operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, phone, computer, and computer printer
The person in this position frequently communicates with employees and external stakeholders regarding a variety of topics related to office administration
Constantly computes, analyzes, and conceptualizes mathematical calculations and formulas
Constantly reads written communications and views email submissions
The person in this position regularly sits in a stationary position in front of a computer screen
Visual acuity and ability to operate a vehicle as certified and appropriate
Rarely exposed to high and low temperatures
Rarely exposed to noisy environments and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind
Compensation Range (Southern California Only)
Salary Range: $77,520.00 - $85,680.00
Anticipated Cost of Living Adjustment: $19,200.00 (COLA)
Total Compensation Range: $96,720.00 - $104,880.00 (Salary + COLA)
Any Employment Offers are Contingent Upon Successful Completion of the Following
Verification of Work Authorization and Employment Eligibility
Substance Abuse Screening
Physical Exam (if applicable)
Background Checks for Badging/Security Clearances (if applicable)
Benefits Hensel Phelps provides generous benefits for our salaried employees. This position is eligible for company paid medical insurance, life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment, long-term disability, 401(K) retirement plan, health savings account (HSA) (HSA not available in Hawaii), and our employee assistance program (EAP). It also is eligible for employee paid enrollment in vision and dental insurance. Hensel Phelps also believes in the importance of taking time to recharge. As a result, salaried employees are eligible for paid time off beginning upon hire. Salaried positions (project engineers and above) participate in an annual bonus plan, subject to company and employee performance. Salaried employees are also eligible for a company cell phone or cell phone allowance in accordance with company policy. Further, salaried employees also receive either a vehicle or vehicle allowance in accordance with Hensel Phelps’ policies.Based on position location, a cost of living adjustment (COLA) may also be included (subject to periodic review and adjustment).
Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer Hensel Phelps is an equal opportunity employer. Hensel Phelps is committed to engaging in affirmative action to increase employment opportunities for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Hensel Phelps shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, domestic partner status, pregnancy, disability, citizenship, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) #LI-JV1 Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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Founded in 1937, Hensel Phelps specializes in building development, construction and facility services in markets ranging from aviation to government, commercial, transportation, critical facilities, healthcare and transportation. Ranked #1 in aviation and #6 overall general contractor in 2024 by BD+C, Hensel Phelps is one of the largest employee-owned general contractors in the country. Driven to deliver EXCELLENCE in all we do and supported by our core values of Ownership, Integrity, Builder, Diversity and Community, Hensel Phelps brings our clients\' visions to life with a comprehensive approach that begins with innovative planning and extends throughout the life of the property. Proposal Lead Reports to: Project Development Director The Proposal Lead plays a critical role in managing high-quality, strategic proposals from start to finish that support new business acquisition and client relationship growth. This position leads the development of all proposals including the mid- to large-scale RFQs and RFPs, as well as interviews—coordinating pursuit strategy, managing deadlines, and shaping messaging that aligns with client drivers. With a strong understanding of delivery methods, compliance, and win strategy development, the Proposal Lead collaborates across departments to elevate proposal content, storytelling, and presentation outcomes. This role also contributes to broader marketing and communications efforts, including brand development, internal campaigns, and enterprise initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Planning & Strategy
Lead capture planning conversations, including pre-RFP research, team alignment, and messaging strategy.
Support project pursuit staffing and planning through collaboration with business development and regional leadership.
Participate in marketing planning efforts to align pursuit messaging with broader business goals.
Procurement & Proposal Support
Manage proposal responses from initial strategy session through delivery—driving schedule, task delegation, and compliance with the proposal requirements.
Lead RFQ/RFP kickoff and reviews, ensuring clear win themes, alignment with client hot buttons, and consistent messaging throughout the submittal.
Write and refine approach narratives, schedules, and staffing justifications to align with client evaluation criteria.
Create site logistics illustrations, graphics, and project-specific visuals in collaboration with design/marketing staff.
Ensure proposal and presentation materials adhere to compliance, formatting, and brand standards.
Lead presentation planning and execution, including assistance in coaching presenters, arranging AV, developing visuals, and coordinating rehearsals and schedule.
Content Development
Develop compelling project narratives, case studies, and team bios that reflect strategic positioning.
Create win themes and guide narrative alignment across all proposal and interview materials.
Interview technical staff and partners to extract differentiators and develop custom responses.
Oversee award submittals and collaborate on storytelling for both pursuit and marketing efforts.
Utilize AI tools (e.g., CoPilot, Joist) to enhance content development and support efficiency.
Brand & Identity Stewardship
Ensure proposals and marketing collateral are on-brand and represent enterprise identity consistently.
Partner with enterprise marketing teams to align regional storytelling with national positioning.
Represent the firm professionally through external outreach, proposal delivery, and industry engagement.
Employee Engagement
Contribute to enterprise campaigns and internal storytelling efforts that highlight regional and team success.
Support employee engagement events and internal comms efforts that tie pursuit wins to team and cultural milestones.
Marketing & Communications – External
Collaborate with marketing and communications team to develop collateral, event visuals, and project milestone content that supports prepositioning and pursuit visibility.
Assist in translating proposal content into public-facing narratives (e.g., social posts, website content, awards).
Data Collection & Management
Lead jobsite data collection and internal alignment to maintain accurate, timely data in DASH, Bynder, and other tools.
Collect recommendation letters, subcontractor/partner inputs, and community engagement data to support pursuit narratives.
Develop and maintain proposal closeout procedures and content reuse systems for future submittals.
Regional Events
Support the development of proposal-related events and presentations including interview prep sessions, internal win debriefs, and BD engagement forums.
Provide messaging, graphics, and coaching support for client-facing events, panels, and community outreach presentations.
Collaborate with the marketing team on event coordination, helping develop materials and logistics for regional trade shows, recruiting events, and internal celebrations.
Position Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in marketing or relevant field of study
4-5 years of architecture, engineering, and construction experience and/or a combination of education and experience
1+ years of management experience
3+ years’ experience with Client Relationship Management software
Highly organized and effective task management skills
Demonstrated proficiency and competency in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop) with strong graphic design and layout capabilities
Microsoft Office Suite Competency (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
Demonstrated strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills
Strong accuracy and attention to detail
Ability to effectively communicate with senior management, supervisors, peers, and clients
Ability to manage multiple projects/deadlines and accommodate shifting priorities
Experience conducting research and applying analytical skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Thorough understanding of construction industry terminology and procedures
Essential Skills
Planning:
Skilled in developing pursuit plans, win strategies, and client-specific messaging across large, complex submittals.
Proposal Leadership:
Confident in managing the end-to-end proposal lifecycle—organizing inputs, driving schedules, and coaching contributors.
Content Development:
Strong writer and editor with a deep understanding of client hot buttons, delivery methods, and evaluation criteria.
Collaboration:
Builds trust across teams, partnering effectively with technical staff, executives, marketing peers, and external partners.
Compliance & Attention to Detail:
Expert in interpreting solicitation documents and ensuring all requirements are met with clarity and consistency.
Physical Work Classification & Demands
Light Work. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects
The individual in this position will periodically walk, kneel, sit, crouch, reach, stoop, read/see, speak, push, pull, lift, stand, and finger/type. The frequency of each action varies by workflow and office activity
Walking - The person in this position needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, boxes, cabinets, etc.
Constantly operates a computer and other office machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine, phone, computer, and computer printer
The person in this position frequently communicates with employees and external stakeholders regarding a variety of topics related to office administration
Constantly computes, analyzes, and conceptualizes mathematical calculations and formulas
Constantly reads written communications and views email submissions
The person in this position regularly sits in a stationary position in front of a computer screen
Visual acuity and ability to operate a vehicle as certified and appropriate
Rarely exposed to high and low temperatures
Rarely exposed to noisy environments and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind
Compensation Range (Southern California Only)
Salary Range: $77,520.00 - $85,680.00
Anticipated Cost of Living Adjustment: $19,200.00 (COLA)
Total Compensation Range: $96,720.00 - $104,880.00 (Salary + COLA)
Any Employment Offers are Contingent Upon Successful Completion of the Following
Verification of Work Authorization and Employment Eligibility
Substance Abuse Screening
Physical Exam (if applicable)
Background Checks for Badging/Security Clearances (if applicable)
Benefits Hensel Phelps provides generous benefits for our salaried employees. This position is eligible for company paid medical insurance, life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment, long-term disability, 401(K) retirement plan, health savings account (HSA) (HSA not available in Hawaii), and our employee assistance program (EAP). It also is eligible for employee paid enrollment in vision and dental insurance. Hensel Phelps also believes in the importance of taking time to recharge. As a result, salaried employees are eligible for paid time off beginning upon hire. Salaried positions (project engineers and above) participate in an annual bonus plan, subject to company and employee performance. Salaried employees are also eligible for a company cell phone or cell phone allowance in accordance with company policy. Further, salaried employees also receive either a vehicle or vehicle allowance in accordance with Hensel Phelps’ policies.Based on position location, a cost of living adjustment (COLA) may also be included (subject to periodic review and adjustment).
Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer Hensel Phelps is an equal opportunity employer. Hensel Phelps is committed to engaging in affirmative action to increase employment opportunities for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Hensel Phelps shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, domestic partner status, pregnancy, disability, citizenship, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c) #LI-JV1 Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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