Proposal Manager

About CoVar CoVar is a small AI/ML R&D software company with offices in Durham, NC and McLean, VA. We develop artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions that help the Department of Defense detect threats, enable biomedical researchers to accelerate scientific discovery, and help industry solve complex real-world problems. Our team includes software engineers, data scientists, machine learning researchers, and subject matter experts who enjoy tackling difficult challenges and delivering innovative solutions to our customers. We work closely with organizations such as DARPA, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Navy, the NIH, and other government and commercial partners to develop next-generation technologies. About This Position CoVar is seeking an experienced Proposal Manager to support our growing Business Development team. This individual will be responsible for coordinating and managing the development, review, and submission of federal research and development proposals. Working closely with Business Development, technical staff, project leaders, executive leadership, and finance personnel, the Proposal Manager will ensure that proposal submissions are compliant, complete, compelling, and delivered on schedule. The successful candidate will serve as the organizational hub for proposal activities, helping subject matter experts focus on content development while ensuring all requirements, deadlines, and submission details are successfully managed. While the primary focus of this role is proposal management, the Proposal Manager will also support Business Development efforts by helping maintain proposal calendars, tracking funding opportunities, and occasionally identifying opportunities that align with CoVar’s technical capabilities and strategic interests. Responsibilities Manage the end-to-end proposal development process from solicitation release through final submission. Review and interpret funding announcements, requests for proposals, broad agency announcements, and other funding opportunities from agencies including DARPA, the NIH, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Navy. Develop proposal schedules, compliance matrices, submission checklists, and proposal calendars. Coordinate contributions from principal investigators, technical authors, project leaders, finance personnel, and executive leadership. Partner closely with finance staff to ensure budgets and cost volumes are accurate, compliant, and aligned with technical approaches. Track proposal progress and proactively manage deadlines, risks, dependencies, and action items. Coordinate internal proposal reviews and ensure all proposal materials meet sponsor requirements and submission guidelines. Manage proposal submissions through government portals and agency-specific submission systems. Support the Business Development team by maintaining awareness of upcoming funding opportunities and sharing relevant opportunities when identified. Coordinate subcontractor and teaming partner contributions when required. Maintain proposal templates, reusable content libraries, proposal calendars, and process documentation. Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance proposal quality, efficiency, and compliance. Minimum Qualifications Ability to work in Durham, NC. Eligibility for US security clearance (US citizenship is required). Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Minimum of three years of experience managing federal proposal submissions. Demonstrated experience supporting proposals for DARPA, the NIH, and/or Department of Defense organizations including the Army or Navy. Strong project management and organizational skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality. Ability to manage multiple concurrent deadlines and priorities. Ability to build productive working relationships with highly technical subject matter experts and effectively coordinate contributions from individuals with…