ABOUT THE ROLE
Ciorba Group is seeking an experienced Marketing / Proposal Specialist to lead proposal and SOQ production, advance our marketing initiatives, and support business development strategy across our markets. This role is ideal for an AEC marketing professional who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and takes pride in producing winning submissions.
You will work closely with the CMO, Business Development Manager, project managers, and technical staff to craft compelling, well-organized, and visually polished responses to RFPs, RFQs, and other procurement opportunities. You will also contribute to broader marketing programs including content development, brand management, and client communications.
Ciorba Group's Peoria office just got a major upgrade, newly remodeled and purpose-built for growth in central and downstate Illinois. We're expanding our presence with IDOT District 4 and local agency clients, and we're looking for people who want to be part of building something, not just joining something.
Ciorba Group is an employee-owned (ESOP) engineering firm headquartered in Chicago, with offices in Peoria and Crown Point. We work with DOTs, counties, and municipalities on roadway, structural, water resources, electrical and lighting, and construction engineering projects across the Midwest. We're people-first and committed to building careers alongside infrastructure.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Proposal & SOQ Production
- Lead end-to-end production of proposals, SOQs, qualifications packages, and presentations for our clients
- Interpret RFP/RFQ requirements and develop compliant, persuasive response structures
- Coordinate with project managers, engineers, and subconsultants to gather and organize technical content
- Write, edit, and proofread project descriptions, personnel bios, executive summaries, and cover letters
- Manage proposal calendars, internal review cycles, and submission logistics
- Maintain and continuously improve a library of standard content including project experience, resumes, and firm qualifications
Marketing & Business Development Support
- Support the development and execution of the firm’s annual Marketing and Business Development Plan
- Track business development pursuits and pipeline using Deltek Vision/Vantage Point CRM
- Conduct market research and monitor procurement bulletins (IDOT PTB, INDOT, MDOT) for new opportunities
- Assist in the preparation of award submittals, award nominations, and conference presentations
- Contribute to website content, social media, internal newsletters, and other firm communications
- Support planning and execution of client events, open houses, and industry sponsorships
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, English, Journalism, or related field
- 4+ years of marketing and/or proposal experience in an A/E/C firm; transportation/infrastructure focus preferred
- Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a persuasive, client-focused voice
- Expert-level proficiency in Adobe InDesign; proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, and Microsoft Office
- Familiarity with RFP/RFQ processes for IDOT, FHWA, or similar public agency clients
- Ability to manage multiple simultaneous deadlines with accuracy and composure
- Deltek Vision, Vantagepoint, or similar CRM experience preferred
- SMPS membership or CPSM designation a plus
- Graphic design, SketchUp, and Enscape experience is a plus
WHAT WE OFFER
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) — build equity as you build your career
- Flexible hybrid work arrangement
- Collaborative, team-oriented culture with access to leadership and firm strategy
- Lifestyle Spending Account (LSA) to support your wellbeing
If you are a driven AEC marketing professional who wants to make an impact at a firm with nearly 100 years of history and a strong growth trajectory, we want to hear from you.
