Proposal Lead - Government Business Solutions

D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NASDAQ: QBTS) is a leader in the development and delivery of quantum computing systems, software, and services. It is the world’s first commercial supplier of quantum computers, and the first and only to offer dual-platform quantum computing products and services, spanning both annealing and gate-model quantum computing technologies. D-Wave’s mission is to help customers realize the value of quantum today through enterprise-grade systems available on-premises and via its Leap™ quantum cloud service, which offers 99.9% availability and uptime. More than 100 organizations across commercial, government, and research sectors trust D-Wave to address complex computational challenges using quantum computing. Learn more about realizing the value of quantum computing today and how D-Wave is shaping the quantum-driven industrial and societal advancements of tomorrow: www.dwavequantum.com.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced ProposalLead to own and drive complex, high-value proposals for U.S. government related to hardware research and development. This role will manage end-to-end development of bid submissions in target areas (quantum computing hardware and underlying technology), integrating artificial intelligence tools, where compliant.

The ideal candidate brings strong proposal leadership experience within high-technology, defense, aerospace, advanced computing, or similarly complex regulated industries.

What you'll do

• Build and maintain strong relationships and partnerships with product development teams in target areas: hardware development of quantum computing platforms and underlying foundational technology

• Identify relevant funding opportunities for target areas and develop business case for pursuit of funding and project delivery

• Lead development of proposals in response to government funding calls: 

• • Identify key resources to support, review, and deliver a technical proposal

• • Project manage the response to deliver a relevant and enticing project proposal

• • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure proper budgeting, resourcing, and approvals take place for timely submissions

• • Track and maintain awareness of federal government spending trends in target areas, as well as key competitor activities

• • Engage with government program managers leading portfolios in target areas

About You

• Experience: 3+ years in federal proposal development

• Educational background relevant to the target areas (physics, engineering, materials science, etc.), ideally with experience in the quantum computing space

• Demonstrated experience writing successful basic research proposals for US government funding
• Ability to obtain and hold Secret-level US DoD/DoW or higher security clearance

Skill and Competencies

• Team Player: Demonstrated experience in leveraging cross-functional teams and resources in support of business objectives, especially in geographically distributed organizations

• Technical Writing: Significant experience with technical writing and presenting, ideally within the government space

• AI & Digitally-Savvy: Ability to leverage digital collaboration and AI tools while adhering to organizational policies

• Technical Acumen: Ability to critically review AI-generated content for correctness, regulatory alignment, and technical accuracy

• Process Management: Expertise in compliance matrices, proposal review workflows, and submission quality assurance

• Communication: Ability to articulate the business and economic value of technical work, both internally and externally

A D-Waver's DNA

• We look at the future and say “why not”; we see possibilities where others see problems or routines. We show the way ahead and are committed to achieving ambitious goals.
• We practice straight talk and listen generously to each other with empathy. We value different opinions and points of views. We ensure that we connect outside as well as inside to learn from others and inspire each other.
• We hold ourselves accountable for delivering results. We make decisions & take responsibility so that we can act & support each other.
• As leaders we motivate & engage our teams to undertake beyond what they originally thought possible, by developing our teams & creating the conditions for people to grow and empower themselves through enabling & coaching.

Our Compensation Philosophy is Simple but Powerful:

We believe providing D-Wavers with company ownership, competitive pay, and a range of meaningful benefits is the start of creating a culture where people want to give the best they’ve got, not because they’re simply making money, but because they’ve fallen in love with our vision, mission, values, and team. 

Anticipated salary/hourly wage range for this position is posted below. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including a candidate’s experience, skills, qualifications, work location, and alignment with the responsibilities of the role.

We believe great work starts with supporting our people. Eligible U.S.-based full-time and part-time employees regularly scheduled to work 30 or more hours per week have access to a generous benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability and life insurance; a 401(k) retirement plan; paid holidays; wellness and well-being resources; paid sick time; and flexible paid time off to support rest and well-being.  Employees may also be eligible to participate in short-term and/or long-term incentive programs.

Inclusion: 

We celebrate diverse perspectives to drive innovation in our pursuit. Our employees range from distinguished domain experts with decades of experience in their respective fields, to bright and motivated graduates eager to make their mark. Our diverse and innovative team will make you feel appreciated, supported and empower your career growth at D-Wave.

Security Clearance:

This position requires active Secret level security clearance (or higher) or the ability to qualify for Secret level security clearance.

The Fine Print: 

No 3rd party candidates will be accepted

It is D-Wave Systems Inc. policy to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, local law.

Job seekers should be aware of fraudulent job offers from online scammers and only apply to roles listed on D-Wave Careers site using our applicant system. Note: We do not use text messaging or third-party messaging apps to communicate with applicants and will never ask for fees or financial commitment, so please exercise caution if you are approached in this way. Authentic communications will come from an @dwavesys.com email.

For more information, please read our full Statement Regarding Job Recruiting Fraud Scams.