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Lead Proposal Writer

Centene · MO · Remote available · $87,700–$157,800 a year · Full time

Posted Sep 9, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a Medicaid RFP section you wrote that scored well. What made it work?

What they are checking: Evidence of real, high-scoring Medicaid proposal writing, which the posting prefers.

How does a clinical background help, or how would you build that knowledge, when writing care management sections?

What they are checking: Whether they can write credibly about clinical programs that evaluators will scrutinize.

Tell me about a time you had to cut a strong draft down to fit a strict page limit.

What they are checking: Editing discipline and judgment about what content earns the most points.

How do you handle the evening and weekend pushes that come with peak RFP periods?

What they are checking: Honest readiness for the deadline-driven workload the posting describes.

What would you do

A subject matter expert keeps missing deadlines for input during a re-procurement. What do you do?

What they are checking: Project management and influence skills under tight RFP timelines with people who don't report to them.

How do you give feedback to a newer writer whose draft isn't ready?

What they are checking: Mentoring skills, which the posting includes, delivered in a way that builds confidence.

About the work

How do you turn a subject matter expert's dense policy document into a compelling narrative?

What they are checking: Skill at translating technical input into persuasive, evaluator-friendly writing.

How do you make sure every requirement in an RFP question is answered so evaluators can find it easily?

What they are checking: Compliance discipline, since missing a requirement costs points no matter how good the writing is.

How do you weave win themes and differentiators into a response without it sounding like marketing?

What they are checking: Ability to prove claims with specifics, data and examples rather than empty promises.

How would you write a topic paper before an RFP is released, and how would other writers use it?

What they are checking: Ability to prepare ahead and share knowledge so the team writes faster and more consistently.

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The full job description

As published by Centene.

Position Purpose: Develop written responses to complex, high-scoring Medicaid Request for Proposal (RFP) section supporting the company's growth and expansion goals. Key Details: Occasional evening and weekend work may be required during peak RFP and re-procurement periods. Clinical healthcare experience and strong Medicaid proposal writing skills are preferred. • Project manage and respond to assigned high-scoring RFP questions in support of new business and renewal procurement • Partners with internal functional area Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to translate SME-provided policies, examples, and reports into compelling narrative • Ensure responses to assigned RFP questions comply with RFP requirements and drafting guides, and are 'on message' with identified win themes and key differentiators • Develop topic papers in assigned areas in advance of RFP release to help other writers understand topic, approach, and associated tactics and programs • Serve as the department’s SME for assigned functional areas by understanding key concepts and terms under that discipline • Provide backup support for department reporting, competitive intelligence, and project management activities as needed • Mentor departmental staff and assist in the development of RFP responses and reviews • Performs other duties as assigned • Complies with all policies and standards Education/Experience: A Bachelor's degree in English, Marketing, Health Care, or related field. Over five years of proposal writing experience, preferably in Medicaid managed care. Experience managing proposals, marketing, technical or contract writing experience preferred. Licenses : Clinical license (e.g., RN, LCSW) preferred Pay Range: $87,700.00 - $157,800.00 per year At Centene, we connect people to the care they need to live healthier lives — and the work you do here makes that impact real every day. You’ll take on meaningful challenges that directly support individuals, families, and communities, building your skills while making healthcare more accessible and effective. It’s work with a purpose you can see, backed by a team committed to improving lives well beyond the workday. Centene offers a comprehensive benefits package including: competitive pay, health insurance, 401K and stock purchase plans, tuition reimbursement, paid time off plus holidays, and a flexible approach to work with remote, hybrid, field or office work schedules. Actual pay will be adjusted based on an individual's skills, experience, education, and other job-related factors permitted by law , including full-time or part-time status. Total compensation may also include additional forms of incentives. Benefits may be subject to program eligibility. Centene is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, and values the ways in which we are different. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other characteristic protected by applicable law. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered in accordance with the LA County Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act

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