New

Proposal Specialist

Zoro Tools
life insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
United States, Illinois, Lake Forest
Apr 15, 2026
Work Location Type:Remote Req Number 329056 About Grainger W.W. Grainger, Inc., is a leading broad line distributor with operations primarily in North America, Japan and the United Kingdom. At Grainger, We Keep the World Working by serving more than 4.5 million customers worldwide with products and solutions delivered through innovative technology and deep customer relationships. Known for its commitment to service and award-winning culture, the Company had 2024 revenue of $17.2 billion across its two business models. In the High-Touch Solutions segment, Grainger offers approximately 2 million maintenance, repair and operating (MRO) products and services, including technical support and inventory management. In the Endless Assortment segment,Zoro.comoffers customers access to more than 14 million products, andMonotaRO.comoffers more than 24 million products. For more information, visitwww.grainger.com. Compensation The anticipated base pay compensation range for this position is $73,400.00 - $122,300.00. This role is eligible for an incentive target of up to 10 % or $ , based on the achievement of individual and company performance objectives in accordance with the current terms of the incentive program which are subject to change. Rewards and Benefits With benefits starting on day one, our programs provide choice and flexibility to meet team members' individual needs, including: Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans with coverage starting on day one of employment and 6 free sessions each year with a licensed therapist to support your emotional wellbeing. 18 paid time off (PTO) days annually for full-time employees (accrual prorated based on employment start date) and 6 company holidays per year. 6% company contribution to a 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan each pay period, no employee contribution required. Employee discounts, tuition reimbursement, student loan refinancing and free access to financial counseling, education, and tools. Maternity support programs, nursing benefits, and up to 14 weeks paid leave for birth parents and up to 4 weeks paid leave for non-birth parents. For additional information and details regarding Grainger's benefits, please click on the link below: https://experience100.ehr.com/grainger/Home/Tools-Resources/Key-Resources/New-Hire Grainger Benefits The pay range provided above is not a guarantee of compensation. The range reflects the potential base pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual base pay compensation will depend, in part, on factors such as geographic work location and relevant experience and skills. The anticipated compensation range described above is subject to change and the compensation ultimately paid may be higher or lower than the range described above. Grainger reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion at any time, consistent with applicable law. Position Details The Proposal Specialist is an experienced individual contributor responsible for developing persuasive proposals and RFP/RFQ responses that clearly communicate Grainger's Value Proposition and support profitable customer relationships. Operating with advanced knowledge of proposal processes and business concepts, this role collaborates with Sales, Customer Lifecycle Managers, and cross-functional teams to deliver accurate, customized, and compliant proposals. You will report to the Manager, Contracts & Proposals. You Will Work with the Customer Life-cycle Manager and Sales owner to understand the strategy for the specific customer and lead the proposal kick-off process to ensure timely completion of responses. Draft proposal documents and responses to RFP/RFQs using Grainger's standard language, customizing content to align with sales strategy and customer needs. Apply advanced knowledge of Grainger's offerings to articulate strengths and value proposition in writing, ensuring clarity and persuasiveness. Identify and mitigate contractual risks by reviewing customer requests, suggesting alternatives, and consulting legal or subject matter experts when necessary. Maintain and update the clause library and proposal archives to ensure accuracy, compliance, and accessibility for future use. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop standard and non-standard responses to common proposal issues and support negotiations during contract discussions. Provide training and cross-training for team members on policies, procedures, and best practices; offer backup support for critical activities as needed. Participate in and manage special projects related to proposals and contracting to improve processes and outcomes. You Have Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience in business administration, sales, communications or related field. 3+ years experience in proposals, communications, Government segment or contracting. Experience articulating a company's value proposition in written and verbal formats, tailoring messaging to diverse audiences and aligning with strategic objectives. Experience negotiating terms and conditions with internal stakeholders and external customers, ensuring compliance with company policies while achieving mutually beneficial outcomes Experience managing multiple priorities and competing timelines in a fast-paced environment, utilizing planning tools and organizational techniques to meet deadlines without compromising quality. Experience with Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Artificial Intelligence (AI) software such as Copilot and ChatGPT. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or expression, protected veteran status or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible work environment that includes both providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the application and hiring process as well as throughout the course of one's employment, should you need a reasonable accommodation during the application and selection process, including, but not limited to use of our website, any part of the application, interview or hiring process, please advise us so that we can provide appropriate assistance.